1. Assess the Situation:
* Age: How old is the kitten? Newborn kittens (under 2 weeks) are entirely dependent on their mother's milk. Older kittens (over 2 weeks) might be weaning naturally.
* Mother's Health: Is the mother cat healthy? Is she producing milk?
* Kitten's Health: Does the kitten seem weak, lethargic, or dehydrated?
2. Troubleshooting:
* Encourage Nursing: Gently place the kitten near the mother's nipples. If the mother is receptive, she may lick the kitten to stimulate nursing.
* Warmth: Kittens need warmth to stay healthy. Make sure the kitten has access to a warm place (like a heating pad on a low setting).
* Stimulation: If the kitten isn't nursing, gently stimulate the kitten's bowels by using a warm, damp cloth or cotton swab to wipe the anal area. This helps the kitten eliminate waste.
* Hydration: Offer a kitten-safe electrolyte solution (like Pedialyte) or kitten milk replacer (KMR) using a dropper or syringe. You can also try dipping a finger in the solution and letting the kitten lick it.
* Vet Visit: If the kitten is not nursing and shows signs of dehydration or weakness, contact your veterinarian immediately.
3. Kitten Milk Replacer (KMR):
* If the mother is unable to nurse, you'll need to feed the kitten KMR.
* Choose: Look for a quality KMR formula specifically designed for kittens.
* Feeding: Follow the instructions on the KMR package carefully. Typically, you'll need to feed the kitten every 2-3 hours.
* Temperature: Warm the KMR to body temperature before feeding. You can test it on your wrist.
* Technique: Use a feeding syringe or bottle designed for kittens.
* Burping: Burp the kitten after feeding to prevent gas buildup.
Important Considerations:
* Hygiene: Keep the kitten's feeding area clean and sanitize all feeding tools.
* Warmth: Kittens need a warm environment. Provide a heating pad on low or a warm towel.
* Monitoring: Monitor the kitten's weight and bowel movements regularly.
* Vet Supervision: Consult your veterinarian for advice on caring for a kitten that isn't nursing.
Remember, a healthy kitten will gain weight and have regular bowel movements. If you have any concerns, seek immediate veterinary help.