When kittens are born, they are completely defenseless. They cannot see or hear, and only feel their mother’s body heat and milk scent. For this reason, it is strictly not recommended to separate kittens from their mother before 8 weeks! However, in some cases, a kitten may be left without a mother. For example, if the mother cat dies, rejects her kittens, becomes seriously ill, runs away from home, etc. In such cases, the feeding and care of the kitten becomes entirely your responsibility. To help you, we have collected useful advice from experienced cat breeders and veterinarians in this article.
The main aspects of kitten care include:
Kitten feeding can be natural or artificial. Natural feeding is provided by the mother’s milk up to 8 weeks. Of course, no food can replace the benefits of mother’s milk. Through milk, the mother cat transfers immune cells to her kitten. A strong immune system protects the kitten from many diseases. If the mother is not present or no lactating cat can be found, you must feed the kitten yourself. In this responsible task, a special kitten milk replacer (formula) will help you. It contains easily digestible protein, omega fats, and other energy sources.
Kittens fed with formula can start transitioning to ready-made kitten food from around 4–5 weeks (or 8 weeks for milk-fed kittens). At this stage, their incisors begin to grow, which is a sign they are ready for solid food. First, kittens are introduced to wet food, then dry food. You will gradually learn which type they prefer.
Note: According to veterinarians, kittens should be fed premium or higher-quality food because its composition is balanced and free from harmful additives (colorings, flavorings).
Until 2 weeks of age, kittens cannot regulate their body temperature. Reasons include low fat levels and inactivity. A mother cat naturally provides warmth. Prepare a clean sleeping place away from heating systems and air conditioners. If the kitten is alone, you must ensure proper warmth. Otherwise, its life may be at risk. Use warm blankets and clean pads, changing them frequently. You can place a heating pad or warm water bottle under the blanket. Another option is rice-filled socks heated in a microwave. The temperature should be around 30–33°C. The kitten must always be able to move away from heat if it gets too warm.
Temperature guidelines:
Note: If temperature is abnormal, consult a veterinarian immediately.
Up to 4 weeks, kittens cannot use the litter box independently. The mother stimulates them. If there is no mother, you must do it. Use a warm damp cloth and gently stimulate the genital area after feeding. Massage the belly after each meal.
Note: Kittens must urinate and defecate after each feeding up to 1 month of age.
From week 3, kittens start using the litter box. From week 4, you can introduce litter. Tofu litter is suitable because it is soft and quiet.
Cleanliness is very important. You can gently wipe kittens with a damp cloth. Clean eyes and ears with cotton soaked in warm boiled water. Do not cut nails before 15 weeks. Grooming starts after 2 months depending on fur type.
Kittens can be bathed from 3–4 months of age using special shampoo and warm water (32–39°C). Outdoor kittens can be bathed once a month; indoor kittens every 2 months.
Important: If the umbilical cord is still present, the kitten is under 1 week old. Do not remove it; it will fall off naturally in 4–5 days.
Veterinary checkups are essential. Any abnormal signs like appetite loss or lethargy require immediate attention.
Newborn weight is about 100g. Daily gain is 10–15g. Eyes open at 12 days, hearing starts at 14 days. Teeth begin at 2–3 weeks.
Vaccination starts at 2–2.5 months. Deworming can begin from 6 weeks.
From 6 months, behavioral changes may appear. Sterilization or medical regulation may be necessary.
After sterilization, special diet is required.
With proper care and love, even orphaned kittens can grow healthy and happy.
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