How to Warm a Hypothermic Kitten

Hypothermia in cats occurs when the animal's internal body temperature drops drastically below the average, which is between 100 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. This occurs for a number of reasons including over exposure to cold and wet temperatures, as a result of shock or because a newborn kitten does not receive adequate care. Symptoms include listlessness, excessive shivering, skin that is cool to the touch, drowsiness and decreased heart rate. Treating both mild and severe cases of hypothermia occurs both at home and with the aid of a veterinarian.

Things You'll Need

  • Blanket
  • Thermometer
  • Heating pad or other implement
  • Hand towel
  • Warm cat food
  • Warm milk
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove the kitten from the cold environment immediately. If the hypothermia is caused by shock, move the animal slowly to avoid preventing further injury.

    • 2

      Wrap the kitten in a warm blanket. If possible, heat the blanket in the dryer for three to five minutes beforehand.

    • 3

      Take the kitten's temperature rectally. If the temperature is between 96 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit, continue to treat it at home and continue on to the next step. If the animal's rectal temperature is below 90 degrees Fahrenheit, take it immediately to the veterinarian to be treated with intravenous warming fluids and warming enemas.

    • 4

      Wrap a heating pad or plastic bottle filed with warm water with a hand towel. Place the towel under the kitten's armpit or near its groin to raise the kitten's temperature more effectively.

    • 5

      Continue to check the kitten's rectal temperature every 10 to 15 minutes. Once the temperature reaches at least 99 degrees Fahrenheit begin to offer the kitten warm cat food and warm milk.

    • 6

      Warm your kitten with blankets, heating pads and water bottles until it becomes more active, begins to accept food and water, and its temperature returns to the normal range.

    • 7

      Monitor the kitten for any changes in diet, sleep patterns and for any continuing hypothermia symptoms. If the kitten is not back to normal after two days contact a veterinarian for further treatment.