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Raising Orphan Kittens
The energy requirement for kittens in the first few weeks of life is approximately 20 kcal ME/100 g (3.5oz) body weight/day. The water requirement is 18 mL/g (3.5 oz) per day.
This equals 1 cc./ml. per ounce of body weight per feeding.
Vigorous orphans with a good suck reflex may be bottle-fed while on their stomach with the head elevated, simulating a normal nursing position. They should be fed every 2 to 4 hours during the first week of life, and less frequently thereafter.
Initially, only 50% of the normal amount of milk replacer should be fed to avoid inducing diarrhea.
Extra water or an oral electrolyte solution can be added to make up volume and provide fluid needs.
Over several feedings, the concentration of the formula can be increased to that recommended by the manufacturer.
Reconstituted milk replacer should be warmed to 35- 38 degrees C (95-100oF) by immersing the container in a warm water bath. Never microwave formula as overheating may result.
Avoid overfeeding; the maximum stomach capacity for kittens is about 4 mL/100 g (3.5 oz) body weight.
Avoiding Problems
Diarrhea is the most common problem seen in kittens fed milk replacer. It can be treated by temporarily reducing the amount fed and by diluting the formula by 50% with water or electrolyte solution (Pediolyte) for a few feedings.
Orphan kittens should be weighed every 12 hours to ensure nutrition is adequate to support maintain weight and allow for growth.
Orphans under 3 weeks of age must have the anogenital area stimulated after every feeding to induce defecation and urination.
At 3 to 4 weeks of life, kitten food can be introduced by mixing a small amount of food with formula and offering it in a saucer. Once the kitten has learned to eat from a saucer, the amount of formula fed can be slowly decreased until only solid food is being ingested.
Weaning is usually completed by 6 to 8 weeks of age.
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