Feeding tips for newborn kittens

Kittens derive nutrients from their mother’s milk. They need to be on mother’s feed and care up to four to eight weeks of age. Incase you bring home a newborn kitten or if the kitten is orphaned or has been rejected by its mother, the following are the tips you need to follow while feeding your kitten:  

• Newborn kittens need to be fed every 1 to 2 hours. Once the kitten has crossed four weeks of age they can be introduced to a good quality milk replacer (recommended by your vet) and moistened kitten food 4 to 6 times a day.
• Do not give your kitten cow’s milk directly as it is too hard for them to digest. You will have to dilute cow’s milk with water and if they do not get diarrhea after a day you can continue giving them diluted cow’s milk. Once the kittens are 3-4 weeks old you can provide formula in a shallow dish along with some kitten food that is softened with water. You need to feed them this food 4-6 times per day.
• When kittens are small they may not be able feed on its own,specially when they are abandoned or separated by the mother. If they are not taking food laid in its plate or if they are finding it difficult mouthing it, you can try feeding the liquids with the help of a syringe or dropper. A kitten feeding bottle can also be made at home to help you in the process.
• The type of food you introduce to your kitten should have at least 30 percent protein so ensure it is a good quality kitten food. A seven week old kitten is capable of chewing his food so you do not have to moisten it, but some moisture will always help in digestion, though it is not completely necessary.
• Kittens aged six weeks to 3 months should be fed four times a day and you can gradually lessen their access to milk replacer. During this stage, kittens should be fed three-four times a day.
• The weaning process should begin around five weeks of age. Start it by mixing canned or dry cat food with some kitten formula and start feeding them this baby food. Check the ingredients on the label to ensure the food does not contain onion as it is toxic to cats.
• Not all kittens will take to food immediately, so patience is important. Begin with placing small amounts of food in his bowl and let him get the taste of the food by placing it on your finger.