If a cat abandons kittens, what to do and how to feed them? - briefly
If a mother cat abandons her kittens, immediate action is crucial to ensure their survival. Kittens need to be fed every two to three hours with a suitable milk replacement formula, and kept warm until they are old enough to eat solid food and care for themselves.
If a cat abandons kittens, what to do and how to feed them? - in detail
If a mother cat abandons her kittens, immediate action is required to ensure their survival and well-being. Kittens are highly dependent on their mother for the first few weeks of life, so it's crucial to provide them with proper care and nourishment.
Firstly, assess the kittens' condition. Newborn kittens are fragile and require a warm environment to maintain their body temperature. Place them in a box or container lined with soft blankets or towels. A heating pad set on low can be used to provide additional warmth, but ensure it is placed outside the box so the kittens do not come into direct contact with it. Monitor the kittens' temperature regularly; they should feel warm to the touch.
Next, address their nutritional needs. Kitten milk replacer (KMR) is essential for feeding abandoned kittens. It is specifically formulated to mimic the mother cat's milk and provides the necessary nutrients for growth and development. Do not feed cow's milk or any other substitutes, as they can cause digestive issues in kittens.
To feed the kittens, use a small bottle with a nipple designed for newborns. Warm the KMR to body temperature (around 98-100°F or 36-37°C) before feeding. Hold the kitten upright and gently place the nipple in their mouth, allowing them to suckle at their own pace. Feed each kitten individually to ensure they get an adequate amount of milk.
The feeding schedule depends on the kittens' age:
- Newborns (0-2 weeks): Feed every 2-3 hours around the clock.
- 2-4 weeks: Gradually reduce feedings to every 4-6 hours.
- Over 4 weeks: Feed every 6-8 hours, gradually introducing solid food as they grow.
After feeding, stimulate the kittens' genital area with a warm, damp cloth or cotton ball to encourage them to urinate and defecate. This is essential for their health and hygiene, as newborns cannot do this on their own.
Monitor the kittens' weight gain and overall health. Kittens should gain weight consistently; if they are not gaining weight or show signs of illness, such as lethargy, lack of appetite, or diarrhea, consult a veterinarian immediately.
In addition to feeding, provide social interaction and stimulation. Handle the kittens gently but frequently to simulate the mother cat's grooming and encourage their development. Play soft music or leave a radio on low volume to mimic the sounds of a household environment, which can be comforting for the kittens.
Lastly, consider finding a foster mother cat who has recently given birth and is lactating. She may accept the abandoned kittens and provide them with the nourishment and care they need. If you cannot find a foster mother, continue to care for the kittens until they are old enough to be weaned (around 8 weeks) and can transition to solid food and water.
Caring for abandoned kittens requires dedication, patience, and careful attention to their needs. With proper care and nourishment, they can grow into healthy and well-adjusted cats.