Instructions for Taking Care of Newborn Kittens

Kittens, especially those 4 weeks old and younger, require constant care. If their mother is not available to feed, bathe and otherwise protect them, a human caregiver must act as a substitute, providing milk, gentle cleaning and supervision. Kittens are also vulnerable to many diseases, so medical care is a must. With proper attention, kittens can be healthy and well-socialized, even at an early age.

Things You'll Need

  • Kitten milk-replacement formula
  • Feeding bottle
  • Towels or blankets
  • Incubator, heat lamp, heating pad or other warming device
  • Thermometer
  • Kitten toys
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Instructions

    • 1
      Milk from the mother or another nursing cat is preferable to kitten formula.

      Feed your kittens. Ideally, the mother should nurse them during the first 24 hours. If the mother is not present, give them kitten milk-replacement formula from bottles. Do this nine to 12 times a day during their first three weeks as newborns. Use formula warmed to about 100 degrees Fahrenheit and clean bottles. Position the kittens on their stomachs for feeding. Burp the kittens afterward.

    • 2
      A trained veterinarian can identify diseases your kittens may have and tell you how to care for them.

      Take the kittens to a veterinarian for checkups every three to four weeks until they have reached 4 months. Tell the doctor if the kittens were not nursed by their mother during their first 24 hours, since they will have a higher likelihood of becoming sick. Share with the vet as much as you know about your kittens' health, including changes in their diet, bowel movements, shedding or behavior. If the kittens stop eating, vomit repeatedly or show other signs of illness, take them to the vet immediately.

    • 3
      Use a towel, cotton ball or other soft cloth moistened with warm water to clean kittens.

      Keep the kittens clean. Allow the mother cat ample time to clean her kittens. In the absence of a mother, clean kittens with a damp, soft cloth around their faces or wherever they may appear dirty. Never give them baths, because submersion can chill the kittens and induce hypothermia.

      Clean and massage kittens' anal areas gently with a moist cloth after every feeding for the first three weeks, while their muscles are too weak to control the function of eliminating waste. After the stimulation makes the kittens urinate or defecate, clean the areas again with a fresh cloth to reduce the risk of infection.

    • 4
      Keep an eye on the temperature of the newborn kittens' living space.

      Kitten-proof your home. Pick up small items they could accidentally swallow or choke on, such as pins, floss and pills. Vacuum or clean the kittens' living space; dust balls can also pose a threat. Keep the space warm---about 85 degrees the first week, 75 the next three weeks. Use an incubator, heat lamp, heating pad or even a 25-watt bulb to supply warmth, but don't put the heat source so close or make it so warm that it will burn the kittens. Monitor the temperature with a thermometer, and supply the kittens with plenty of towels or blankets for snuggling in.

    • 5
      Don't use toy mice with tails, eyes or anything else that presents a choking hazard.

      Play with the kittens. Hold them, pet them and play with them for at least a half hour every day to encourage socialization toward humans. Use toy mice, toy fishing poles, balls or yarn. Remove the toys from their play area when you leave if they include small parts that could be swallowed.

      Give the kittens small stuffed animals or other safe toys to play with in your absence. Keep the kittens together, so they can play with each other and stimulate each other mentally and physically. Cuddle with the kittens, especially during their first month. Hold each of them individually for 10 to 15 minutes before or after feeding to provide needed nurturing.