How to feed a newborn kitten? - briefly
Feed a newborn kitten with a specialized kitten milk replacer using a small bottle or syringe, ensuring it’s warmed to body temperature and fed every 2-3 hours.
How to feed a newborn kitten? - in detail
Feeding a newborn kitten requires careful attention to their specific nutritional needs and feeding schedule. If the kitten has been separated from its mother or the mother is unable to nurse, you will need to provide a suitable milk replacement. Never use cow’s milk, as it can cause digestive issues. Instead, opt for a high-quality kitten milk replacer, which is specifically formulated to meet their dietary requirements. These products are available at most pet stores or veterinary clinics. To feed the kitten, use a small bottle designed for kittens or a syringe with a nipple attachment. Ensure the milk is warmed to approximately 100°F (38°C), as this mimics the temperature of a mother cat’s milk. Test the temperature on your wrist to ensure it’s not too hot or cold. Newborn kittens need to be fed every 2-3 hours, including overnight, as they have small stomachs and cannot consume large amounts at once. Hold the kitten in a natural, belly-down position, similar to how they would nurse from their mother. Allow the kitten to suckle at their own pace, avoiding forceful feeding, which can lead to aspiration. After each feeding, gently stimulate the kitten’s genital area with a warm, damp cloth to encourage urination and defecation, as they cannot do this on their own in the first few weeks. Keep the feeding area clean and sanitize all equipment after each use to prevent infections. Monitor the kitten’s weight daily to ensure they are gaining steadily, as this is a key indicator of proper nutrition. If the kitten shows signs of lethargy, refusal to eat, or digestive problems, consult a veterinarian immediately. As the kitten grows, you can gradually reduce the frequency of feedings and introduce solid food around 4-5 weeks of age, transitioning them to a diet suitable for their developmental stage. Proper feeding during the early weeks is essential for the kitten’s health and growth.