Guidelines for Successfully Bottle-Feeding Your Newborn Kittens

Features Editor: Ravi Teja Mandapaka

 

Ensuring the well-being of a newborn kitten is a demanding responsibility, especially when the mother cat is unable to nurse or if a kitten is separated due to injury or disability. Bottle feeding becomes crucial, requiring careful preparation and attention to detail. From selecting the right supplies to feeding, burping, and imitating maternal care, this guide provides step-by-step instructions to help you navigate bottle-feeding challenges and ensure your newborn kittens' healthy development.

 

Preparing to Bottle Feed Your Kitten

  • Newborn kittens require nine to 12 daily feedings, with a frequent schedule during the first two weeks.
  • Gather essential supplies, including newborn kitten bottles, nipples, formula, towels, and a kitchen scale.
  • Ensure proper sterilization of bottles and nipples, and prepare the formula with attention to temperature.

 

What You Need

  • Newborn kitten bottles and nipples
  • Dropper (if necessary)
  • Kitten formula
  • Soft towels and washcloths
  • Kitchen scale

 

Prepare the Formula

  • Sterilize bottles and nipples in boiling water.
  • Adjust the nipple hole size for controlled formula flow.
  • Set up a comfortable feeding station with a towel, a washcloth, warm water, and a chair.
  • Mix and warm the kitten formula to the correct temperature.

 

Bottle the Kitten

  • Create a cosy feeding environment by wrapping the kitten in a towel and placing it on your lap.
  • Gently insert the nipple into the kitten's mouth without lifting its head.
  • Feed until the kitten naturally pulls away.

 

Burp the Kitten

  • Like human babies, kittens need gentle burping after nursing.
  • Hold the kitten under its abdomen and pat its upper back softly.

 

Stimulate Elimination

  • Imitate the mother cat's care by wiping the kitten's anuses and genital area with a warm, damp washcloth.
  • Be gentle to avoid irritation, and repeat until you observe results.

 

Let the Kitten Sleep

  • After nursing, provide a warm cat bed for the kitten to undisturbed.

This comprehensive guide ensures you have the knowledge and steps necessary for successful bottle-feeding and fostering the health and development of your precious newborn kittens.

 

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About Author

Ravi Teja Mandapaka is a multifaceted scholar, poet, and passionate advocate for animals. From English literature to agricultural sciences, from field hockey to music and the arts, Ravi's diverse interests converge in his unwavering commitment to animal welfare. He believes in a journey where compassion meets creativity, and academia blends with advocacy.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ravimandapaka/

@RaviTMandapaka [aka Twitter]