How to Feed a Newborn Kitten?

For newborn kittens that are just a month old, it’s important to provide them with the right nutrition to support their growth and development. This article will provide detailed guidance on how to properly feed a month-old kitten, ensuring they get everything they need to thrive.

Initial Feeding: Kitten Milk Replacer (KMR)

Generally, kittens can be weaned around one month old. But if they are newly weaned, the best option is to feed them a kitten milk replacer (KMR) specifically formulated for kittens. These formulas are designed to mimic the nutrients found in a mother cat’s milk and are much easier for kittens to digest than cow’s milk.

Why not cow’s milk? Cow’s milk contains lactose that kittens can’t digest well, leading to digestive upset such as diarrhea. Goat milk is better, but still does not provide all the nutrients necessary for healthy growth of kittens. KMR offers a balanced blend of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates tailored to meet a kitten’s specific needs.

If the kitten still has access to its mother’s milk, allow it to nurse as much as possible during the first month. Mother’s milk provides vital antibodies that help protect the kitten from diseases. If mother’s milk is not available, high-quality commercial KMR is your best alternative.

Preparing KMR

Carefully follow the instructions on the KMR packaging to prepare the formula correctly. Usually, this involves mixing the powder or liquid concentrate with warm water. It is important to use purified or boiled and cooled water to avoid introducing any harmful bacteria to the kitten. Ensure the mixture is thoroughly combined and free of lumps.

Feeding Frequency and Amount

During the first few weeks, a kitten needs frequent feedings. Here’s a general guideline:

Newborn to 1 week old: Feed every 2-3 hours, including overnight.

1 week to 2 weeks old: Feed every 3-4 hours, including overnight.

2 weeks to 4 weeks old: Feed every 4-6 hours, with one or two overnight feedings.

Each kitten is different, and the amount of KMR they need at each feeding will vary depending on their weight and appetite. Start with the recommended amount on the KMR packaging and adjust as needed. A general rule of thumb is to feed the kitten until its belly is round but not bloated. If the kitten is constantly crying or seems hungry, it may need more food. If it is refusing to eat or vomiting, reduce the amount or consult a veterinarian.

Precise feeding schedule example

Day 1-7: Every 2 hours, 3-6 cc per feeding

Day 7-14: During the day every 2 hours, at night every 4 hours, 6-8cc per feeding

Day 14-21: Every 2 hours during the day, a feeding at 11pm, and a feeding at 8am, 8-10cc per feeding

Feeding Methods

The best way to feed a newborn kitten is using a pet nursing bottle specifically designed for kittens. These bottles have small nipples that are easy for kittens to latch onto. Alternatively, you can use a syringe (without the needle) or an eyedropper.

Bottle Feeding: Hold the kitten in a comfortable position, similar to how it would nurse from its mother. Gently insert the nipple into the kitten’s mouth, tilting the bottle slightly so that milk fills the nipple. Allow the kitten to suckle at its own pace.

Syringe Feeding: Slowly dispense small amounts of KMR into the kitten’s mouth, allowing it to swallow before giving more. Be extremely careful not to squirt the KMR too quickly, as this can cause the kitten to aspirate (inhale the liquid into its lungs).

Eyedropper Feeding: Similar to syringe feeding, slowly drip small amounts of KMR into the kitten’s mouth. This method is best for very young or weak kittens who may have difficulty suckling from a bottle.

Hygiene is Paramount

Always sterilize the feeding equipment thoroughly before each use to prevent bacterial infections. Wash bottles and nipples in hot, soapy water and then boil them for several minutes. Rinse thoroughly and allow them to air dry.

Introducing Solid Food: Weaning Your Kitten

Around 3-4 weeks of age, you can start introducing solid food to your kitten. This is a gradual process, and it’s essential to be patient and observant.

Starting with Wet Food

Begin by offering a high-quality wet kitten food, specifically formulated for kittens. These foods are soft, easily digestible, and packed with nutrients. You can moisten the wet food with a little KMR to make it even more palatable.

Making a Gruel

An alternative approach is to create a gruel by mixing KMR with wet kitten food until it reaches a soupy consistency. This makes it easier for the kitten to lap up.

Gradual Transition

Over the next few weeks, gradually increase the amount of solid food and decrease the amount of KMR. This will allow the kitten’s digestive system to adjust to the new diet. It is recommended that the kitten is fully weaned by around 6-8 weeks of age.

Example of a weaning schedule:

Week 1: Introduce a small amount of wet food mixed with KMR once a day.

Week 2: Offer wet food twice a day, gradually reducing the amount of KMR in the mixture.

Week 3: Provide wet food three times a day, with minimal or no KMR.

Week 4: Transition to solely wet food or begin introducing dry kitten food.

Introducing Dry Food

Once the kitten is comfortably eating wet food, you can start introducing dry kitten food. Choose a high-quality, easily digestible dry food that is specifically formulated for kittens. You can initially moisten the dry food with water or KMR to make it easier for the kitten to chew and digest. Then, you can gradually start to increase the amount of dry food while reducing the moisture content, and eventually feed it dry as is.

Fresh-keeping is important, once the dry food has been soaked in liquid, it should be given to the kitten to consume within an hour, to avoid spoilage that could harm the kitten.

Portion Control

Follow the feeding guidelines on the kitten food packaging. As a general rule, kittens need more calories per pound of body weight than adult cats. Divide the daily food amount into several small meals throughout the day.

Important Considerations for Feeding a Month-Old Kitten

Warmth: Kittens have difficulty regulating their body temperature during the first few weeks of life. Make sure the kitten is kept warm and comfortable, especially after feeding.

Burping: After each feeding, gently pat the kitten’s back to help release any trapped air.

Stimulation: Newborn kittens need help with urination and defecation. After each feeding, gently stimulate the kitten’s anal and genital areas with a warm, damp cloth.

Hydration: Make sure the kitten has access to fresh, clean water at all times, especially as it starts eating solid food.

Avoid Human Food: Do not give kittens human food, as it can be harmful and difficult for them to digest.

Veterinary Care: Take the kitten to a veterinarian for a checkup and vaccinations as soon as possible.

Parasite Prevention: Parasites are very common in kittens and can cause serious health problems. Your veterinarian can recommend appropriate deworming and flea/tick prevention treatments.

Allergies and Intolerances: Some kittens may have food allergies or intolerances. If you notice any signs of digestive upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, consult with your veterinarian.

Signs of a Healthy Kitten

A healthy, well-fed kitten should be active, playful, and alert. It should have a healthy appetite, normal bowel movements, and a shiny coat. If you have any concerns about your kitten’s health or feeding habits, consult with your veterinarian.

What kind of food should I buy?

When finding food for your kitten, be sure to read the labels to find the best ingredients.

First ingredient: The first ingredient should be some kind of meat, such as chicken, turkey or fish.

Avoid: Grains, corn, and soy are not recommended for kittens, and should be avoided when possible.

Taurine: Taurine is important for kittens, as it promotes healthy eye function and development.

Age specific food: Ensure the food is specifically formulated for kittens, as the food is designed to give them the nutrients they need.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your month-old kitten receives the proper nutrition it needs to grow into a healthy and happy cat.