What to feed kittens if the cat has lost its milk? - briefly
If the mother cat has lost her milk or is unable to nurse her kittens, it's crucial to provide them with an appropriate substitute. Kitten formula, available at pet stores and veterinary clinics, closely mimics mother's milk and provides essential nutrients for their growth and development.
What to feed kittens if the cat has lost its milk? - in detail
When a cat loses her milk, it is crucial to provide proper nutrition for her kittens to ensure their healthy development and growth. Kittens require a diet that mimics their mother's milk as closely as possible. Here are some detailed steps and options to consider:
Firstly, understand the composition of cat milk, which is high in protein, fat, and calories. It also contains essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antibodies that boost the kitten's immune system. Replicating this balance is key when selecting a substitute for the mother's milk.
One of the best options is commercially available kitten milk replacer (KMR). This formula is specifically designed to meet the nutritional needs of newborn kittens. KMR can be purchased from veterinary clinics or pet supply stores. When using KMR, follow the instructions on the package carefully to ensure proper dilution and feeding schedule. Typically, kittens should be fed every 2-4 hours for the first few weeks of life.
If KMR is not immediately available, you can consider using cow's milk as a temporary solution. However, it is important to note that cow's milk does not provide all the necessary nutrients for kittens and can cause digestive upset if used long-term. To make cow's milk more suitable, you can add a small amount of egg yolk or heavy cream to increase the fat content. Mix 1 part cow’s milk with 2 parts water, and then add a teaspoon of egg yolk and a tablespoon of heavy cream per cup of this mixture.
Another option is goat's milk, which is closer in composition to cat milk than cow's milk. However, it still lacks some essential nutrients and should be used only as a temporary measure until you can obtain KMR.
Feeding kittens requires patience and careful attention. Use a small bottle with a slow-flow nipple designed for newborns to prevent choking and ensure proper feeding. Warm the milk replacer to body temperature (around 98°F or 37°C) before feeding to mimic the mother's natural warmth.
In addition to providing the right food, maintain a clean and warm environment for the kittens. Keep them in a box lined with soft towels or blankets to prevent hypothermia. Monitor their weight gain regularly; healthy kittens should double their birth weight within the first week and continue to grow steadily thereafter.
If at any point you notice signs of illness, such as lethargy, vomiting, or diarrhea, contact a veterinarian immediately. Early intervention can prevent serious health issues in kittens.
In summary, when a cat loses her milk, the best course of action is to use a commercially available kitten milk replacer (KMR) to ensure the kittens receive all necessary nutrients. If KMR is unavailable, cow's milk or goat's milk can be used temporarily with added egg yolk and heavy cream for better nutrition. Proper feeding techniques and a clean, warm environment are essential for the healthy development of the kittens.