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How to raise a newly born kitten
Newly born kittens need to be cared for in terms of diet, defecation, and warmth. First, regarding diet, it is recommended to let the kitten drink breast milk, which helps them gain maternal antibodies and improve their immunity. If the mother cat's milk is insufficient, artificial feeding is necessary, and the kitten can be given specialized pet goat milk. Secondly, in terms of defecation, since newly born kittens cannot defecate independently, owners need to use warm water to moisten cotton tips and gently wipe the anus area to stimulate the kitten to excrete feces. Finally, regarding warmth, since the temperature regulation system of newly born kittens is not yet developed, owners need to use blankets, electric heaters, etc., to help the kittens keep warm.
- Diet
Newly born kittens are best fed breast milk. If the mother cat's milk is insufficient, the owner can buy specialized pet goat milk to feed the kittens. It is recommended to use a syringe or pet bottle to feed slowly, using warm water to mix the milk to avoid destroying the nutrients. About a month after weaning, kittens can be fed soft food and cat food soaked in warm water. At the age of 10 weeks, they can be fed dry cat food.
Since the digestive system of kittens is fragile, they should be fed small meals throughout the day. Pay attention to feeding on a regular schedule, quantitative, and at a fixed location to prevent indigestion.
- Defecation
Newly born kittens do not have the ability to defecate independently. If a mother cat is taking care of them, the owner doesn't need to worry too much about the kitten's bowel movements. Generally, the mother cat will lick the kitten's anus, stimulating them to excrete. If there is no mother cat feeding, the owner can moisten a cotton tip with warm water and wipe the surrounding area of the kitten's anus to stimulate them to defecate. Be gentle to avoid hurting the kitten's anus.
- warmth
Due to the incomplete development of the kitten's organs and the unstable temperature regulation system, it is necessary to take good care of the warmth to prevent the kitten from catching a cold. Especially in winter, newly born kittens with weak resistance are easily susceptible to death from cold. Secondly, provide a quiet environment for the kitten and mother cat, and do not touch the kittens randomly. Any other smells may make the mother cat feel unsafe and constantly transfer the kittens.
Note: The body of a newly born kitten is very weak, so owners should never give them a bath. At this time, any stimulation of cold or heat may cause the kitten to have a severe stress response, thus leading to death.