NoDQhere
Sep. 28, 2009, 12:03 PM
All these threads on orphan kittens have me wanting to post a few tips that may help.
I used to bottle raise non-domestic kittens. Domestic kittens have the same requirements. (for the most part) Carnivores do not need colostrum so even newborns "can" survive on formula.
Warmth is important. Some "human" heating pads get too warm. The best are warming pads used for rabbits, or the warming pads for dogs. You need to have space so the kitten(s) can crawl off the pad if they get too warm. A stuffed animal on the pad for them to snuggle up to helps a lot.
Kitten milk replacer is an absolute must. There are brands other than KMR, but cats need taurine or they will go blind. If you can feed them every 4 hours when they are newborns they will do well. Little kittens need to have their bottoms gently "licked" with a soft cloth so they will potty.
Once they are a week to 10 days you can space feedings out so you can get more rest :). They can be started on canned food at 3 weeks old. You can mush it up with formula and they will usually go right after it. They will make a mess but now you can get more sleep, and they love being "washed". They will also start to potty on their own at this stage. They will tend to litter box train themselves if you give them a shallow tray with litter in it. DO NOT use clumping clay, it will kill kittens. Use Swheat Scoop or one of the corn cob litters.
Kudos to all of you who try to save the little ones! It doesn't always have a happy ending but thank you for trying.
I used to bottle raise non-domestic kittens. Domestic kittens have the same requirements. (for the most part) Carnivores do not need colostrum so even newborns "can" survive on formula.
Warmth is important. Some "human" heating pads get too warm. The best are warming pads used for rabbits, or the warming pads for dogs. You need to have space so the kitten(s) can crawl off the pad if they get too warm. A stuffed animal on the pad for them to snuggle up to helps a lot.
Kitten milk replacer is an absolute must. There are brands other than KMR, but cats need taurine or they will go blind. If you can feed them every 4 hours when they are newborns they will do well. Little kittens need to have their bottoms gently "licked" with a soft cloth so they will potty.
Once they are a week to 10 days you can space feedings out so you can get more rest :). They can be started on canned food at 3 weeks old. You can mush it up with formula and they will usually go right after it. They will make a mess but now you can get more sleep, and they love being "washed". They will also start to potty on their own at this stage. They will tend to litter box train themselves if you give them a shallow tray with litter in it. DO NOT use clumping clay, it will kill kittens. Use Swheat Scoop or one of the corn cob litters.
Kudos to all of you who try to save the little ones! It doesn't always have a happy ending but thank you for trying.