When do you need to feed kittens after birth and with what? - briefly
Kittens should be fed every two hours immediately after birth. Use a commercial kitten milk replacer or goat's milk if the mother is unable to nurse.
When do you need to feed kittens after birth and with what? - in detail
Feeding newborn kittens is crucial for their survival and growth. The first few days after birth are critical, as kittens rely entirely on their mother's milk for nutrition. Here’s a detailed guide on when and what to feed kittens:
Immediately after birth, kittens should be placed with their mother to nurse within the first hour. This initial feeding is vital as it provides essential antibodies from the colostrum, which helps protect the kittens against infections. If a kitten fails to latch on and nurse, it may require supplemental feedings.
For the first four weeks of life, kittens should be fed their mother’s milk exclusively. Kittens typically nurse every two hours, consuming about 10-15% of their body weight in milk each day. If a kitten is not gaining weight or appears weak, additional feedings may be necessary.
If the mother cat is unable to produce enough milk or if the kittens are orphaned, a commercial kitten milk replacer (KMR) should be used. KMRs are formulated to provide the proper nutrients and balance for growing kittens. They can be fed using a syringe, bottle, or eyedropper, ensuring that the formula is warm but not hot.
From the fourth week onwards, the frequency of feedings decreases as kittens begin to eat solid food. At four weeks, kittens should be offered small amounts of high-quality, easily digestible kitten food mixed with water or KMR to create a gruel. This helps them transition from milk to solid food.
By six to eight weeks, kittens should be eating a diet consisting primarily of solid food and drinking water. They can still nurse occasionally for comfort and additional nutrition, but this should not be their primary source of food.
Throughout the weaning process, it’s essential to monitor each kitten's growth and development. If a kitten is not thriving or gaining weight appropriately, consult a veterinarian for guidance on adjusting the feeding schedule and diet.
In summary, newborn kittens should nurse frequently with their mother’s milk for the first four weeks. If necessary, a KMR can be used as a supplement. As they grow older, gradually introduce solid food until they are fully weaned by six to eight weeks. Regular vet check-ups ensure that each kitten is growing healthily and receiving proper nutrition.