How to Bottle-feed a Newborn Kitten

Somehow you have acquired a newborn kitten (or a litter!), and the mother is nowhere to be found. Fortunately, bottle-feeding is the next best thing! Don’t be afraid – with these easy steps, you’ll save their little lives and begin the foundation to a healthy, long life!

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• KMR powder formula
• Kitten bottles or syringe
• A measuring cup
• A whisk or fork
• A teaspoon
• A towel

1. When preparing the bottle, make sure the nipple has a hole at the tip. The hole shouldn't be too small, or else the kittens won't be able to suck the formula out. The hole shouldn't be too big, or else the kittens may choke on the overflow of formula.

2. 
    

   Mix two spoonfuls of the KMR powder formula with four spoonfuls of warm water. Mix really well - the powder is hard to dissolve.

3. Pour into a bottle. Test the temperature by squeezing some on the inside of your elbow.

4. 
    

   Feed one kitten at a time. Hold the bottle at a 45-degree angle so there’s no air bubbles.

5. Once they reject the bottle, they’re done. Wipe their mouths off so the formula doesn’t crust on their lips.

6. If there is leftover formula, store it in the fridge to use for the next feeding. To heat it up, put it in the microwave for 15 seconds until it’s warm.

Tips & Warnings

• They will most likely tell you when they’re hungry with their shrill meowing.
• Feed them every 3 or 4 hours or so. It is important to stick to a schedule.
• A few minutes after they have finished, gently tap them on the back to burp them.
• Make sure the formula isn't too hot (test it on your inner elbow to make sure).
• Don't squeeze the bottle. They will drink as much as they can handle.
• If some formula gets on their nose, wipe it off immediately so they don't inhale it.
• If the kitten seems to be choking or accidentally breathed in some liquid, hold the kitten upside down (head pointing down to the ground) and gently shake him for a second or two.
• Don't use formula that has been sitting in the fridge for more than 2 days. Freshly mixed formula is always the best.