Kittens typically develop the ability to eat independently around one month old. Before this milestone, they rely on their mother's milk for nourishment. If the mother cat is absent, it becomes the owner's responsibility to feed the young kittens.
Feeding Newborn Kittens
Newborn kittens are extremely vulnerable, especially when their eyes are still closed. Their digestive systems are only equipped to process their mother's milk. If the mother cat isn't present, you will need to bottle-feed the kittens. It's crucial to use a specially formulated kitten milk replacer rather than cow's milk. Kittens lack sufficient amounts of the enzyme needed to digest lactose, which can lead to lactose intolerance and digestive issues.
When hand-rearing kittens, you must be vigilant and attentive 24/7. Feeding should occur approximately every two hours. Always use a pet-specific nursing bottle and ensure the milk replacer is at a comfortable temperature, not too hot or cold – test it on the back of your hand. After feeding, gently massage the kitten's body with your hands or a soft dry cloth, mimicking a mother cat's grooming behavior, or gently pat its side until it burps.
How to Prepare Kitten Formula
When preparing kitten formula, always use warm water to avoid damaging the nutrients. Before feeding, test the temperature of the formula on the back of your hand to ensure it is not too hot. If the formula has cooled down, do not heat it directly in the bottle. Instead, place the bottle in a container of warm water to heat it up gently. Always check the temperature of the formula before each feeding.Related resource:Pet Training
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