Bottle Baby Resources
Refer to our Don’t Kit-Nap information before removing found kittens from their location!
If you have waited the appropriate amount of time and mom still has not returned for her kittens, congratulations, you have bottle babies!
Most shelter have a limited number of foster families that are able to care for newborn kittens. If your shelter is at capacity, this guide will help you navigate the best way to care for them if you decide to foster.
Before getting started, we strongly encourage you to visit the Kitten Lady website. She has a wealth of information with everything from supply lists to feeding guides and techniques including videos to help you every step of the way.
Basic supplies:
Heating pad or warming disc to provide gentle warmth. Cold kittens won’t eat!
Kitten Milk Replacer. There are different brands on the market, but starting with something that is intended for kittens is always recommended.
Bottle or syringe, and an appropriately sized nipple to attach to it. Miracle Nipple Minis are a great choice.
Small cat or dog carrier to help corral the little ones. A cardboard box or laundry basket can also work temporarily.
Unscented baby wipes or cotton balls to help stimulate the kittens to urinate/defecate after each feeding.
If you need help obtaining any of these supplies, please contact us! We can be a resource even if we can’t take the kittens right away. We are happy to make fosters out of anyone willing to help!
Some tips to remember while feeding:
Never hold a kitten on its back while feeding! This can cause the kitten to breathe in the formula, which can be deadly. Keep the kitten flat on its belly during feeding time.
Remember that a kitten that is cold will not eat, so it’s essential to warm the kittens up before attempting to feed them.
Always stimulate your kittens to potty after each feeding.
Use the feeding chart to determine the proper amount and frequency of feeding. Remember that every kitten is different, and this is a guideline, not a rule book!