Feeding a Kitten

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๐Ÿผ How to Feed a Kitten (Newborn to 8 Weeks Old)

Feeding kittens takes time and patience, but it’s a rewarding experience. Here’s a clear guide broken down by age group to help you care for them safely and gently. Key is to monitor their weight and trust the process!


๐Ÿพ Newborn to 2 Weeks Old

  • Feeding Method: Kitten formula (never cowโ€™s milk) in a kitten bottle or syringe.
  • How Often: Every 2โ€“3 hours (including overnight).
  • Amount per Feeding:
    • Newborn to 1 week: 2โ€“6 ml
    • 1 to 2 weeks: 6โ€“10 ml
      (Note: These are general guidelines. Some kittens may eat more or less โ€” that’s okay!)

Feeding Tips:

  • Warm formula to body temperature.
  • Feed slowly to avoid getting milk in their lungs.
  • Trust the kitten โ€“ when they start chewing on the syringe or turning away, theyโ€™re full.
  • Do NOT give kittens plain water in a syringe  โ€“ they get all hydration from the formula at this age.

After Feeding:

  • Gently wipe the kittenโ€™s bottom with a warm, damp cloth or tissue to help them go potty.

๐Ÿพ 2 Weeks to 4 Weeks Old

  • Feeding Method: Continue with kitten formula using bottle or syringe.
  • How Often: Every 3โ€“4 hours (they may start sleeping longer at night).
  • Amount per Feeding:
    • 2 to 3 weeks: 10โ€“14 ml
    • 3 to 4 weeks: 14โ€“18 ml

Feeding Tips:

  • Go slow! Squeeze gently and give breaks if needed.
  • Let them decide when theyโ€™re done โ€” chewing or turning away is a sign theyโ€™re full.
  • Continue bottle or syringe feeding until they confidently lap formula on their own.
  • Start offering a shallow dish of water around 3โ€“4 weeks old, may need to give water with syringe (2-3ml at a time).

After Feeding:

  • Continue cleaning their bottom to help with potty needs.

๐Ÿพ 4 Weeks to 8 Weeks Old

  • Feeding Method: Introduce a mix of wet kitten food and formula (โ€œgruelโ€) in a shallow dish.
  • How Often: Every 4โ€“6 hours. Reduce bottle feeding as they start eating on their own.
  • Amount per Feeding:
    • 4 to 5 weeks: 18โ€“22 ml formula
    • 6 to 8 weeks: Gradually transition to mostly wet food, formula as needed (Make sure they are gaining weigh)

Feeding Tips:

  • Offer meals on a schedule and let kittens eat until satisfied.
  • Always go slow and gentle if still using a syringe or bottle.
  • Continue providing a shallow dish of water so they learn to drink on their own.

After Feeding:

  • Clean any messy bottoms or faces. Theyโ€™re still learning!

๐ŸŒŸ Important Reminders

โœ… Feed kittens slowly to avoid choking or getting milk in their airways.
โœ… Trust kittens to stop when full โ€” watch for chewing, turning away, or slowing down.
โœ… Never give water by syringe โ€” water is introduced in a shallow dish around 3โ€“4 weeks.
โœ… Always clean their bottoms after feeding to keep them clean and stimulate bathroom needs.

With love, patience, and careful feeding, your kitten will grow strong and healthy! ๐Ÿพ๐Ÿ’—


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