How to feed a newborn cat
Newborn cats require special care and feeding, especially in the absence of a mother cat. This article will introduce in detail how to properly feed newborn cats, including structured data such as feeding frequency, food selection, precautions, etc., to help you better take care of these little lives.
1. Feeding frequency and amount
Newborn cats need frequent feedings because their stomachs have a small capacity. The following are recommendations for feeding frequency and amounts:
| age | Feeding frequency | Feeding amount per time |
|---|---|---|
| 0-1 week | Every 2-3 hours | 2-4ml |
| 1-2 weeks | Every 3-4 hours | 4-6ml |
| 2-3 weeks | Every 4-6 hours | 6-8ml |
| 3-4 weeks | Every 6-8 hours | 8-10ml |
2. Food selection
It is best to use specialized cat milk powder for newborn cats, because milk may cause indigestion. Here are common food choices and their characteristics:
| food type | Applicable age | Things to note |
|---|---|---|
| cat milk powder | 0-4 weeks | You need to brew according to the instructions and the temperature is suitable. |
| Breast milk (female cat feeding) | 0-4 weeks | Best choice, rich in antibodies |
| Wet food (paste) | 3-4 weeks later | Need to transition gradually to avoid indigestion |
3. Feeding Tools
Feeding newborn cats requires the use of the right tools to ensure safety and efficiency:
| Tools | Purpose | Things to note |
|---|---|---|
| pet bottle | Feed liquid food | The pacifier needs to be the right size to avoid choking on the milk |
| Syringe (without needle) | emergency feeding | Inject slowly to avoid suffocation |
| small bowl | Transitional use after 3-4 weeks | The mouth needs to be shallow so that the cat can lick it easily. |
4. Feeding steps
Feeding newborn cats requires patience and care. The following are detailed feeding steps:
1.prepare food: Brew cat milk powder according to the instructions, and control the temperature at around 38°C (close to the body temperature of the female cat).
2.Check tool: Make sure the bottle or syringe is clean and the nipple is the right size.
3.feeding posture: Place the cat in a warm place with its head slightly raised to avoid choking on milk caused by raising its head.
4.Feed slowly: Let the cat suck the pacifier by itself, do not force-feed. If using a syringe, give it drop by drop.
5.Observe reaction: If the cat refuses to eat or chokes on milk, stop immediately and adjust its posture.
6.burp: After feeding, gently pat the cat’s back to help expel air from the stomach.
5. Things to note
1.hygiene: All feeding tools need to be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected to avoid bacterial infection.
2.temperature: The food temperature should not be too high or too low, and should be close to the body temperature of the female cat.
3.weight monitoring: Record the cat's weight every day to ensure normal growth (weight gain is about 50-100 grams per week).
4.irritation to defecation: After feeding, you need to use a wet cotton swab to gently stimulate the anus to help defecate (female cats usually lick to complete it).
5.emergency: If your cat has diarrhea, vomiting or refuses to eat, seek medical attention immediately.
6. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I feed milk?
A: It is not recommended to feed ordinary milk because cats may be lactose intolerant and should choose specialized cat milk powder.
Q: What should I do if my cat doesn’t eat milk?
A: Check whether the food temperature and feeding posture are correct, or try changing tools. If food refusal persists, consult a veterinarian.
Q: When can I start eating solid food?
A: Usually, mash wet food can be gradually introduced after 3-4 weeks, and it takes 6-8 weeks to completely transition to solid food.
Through the above structured data and detailed guidance, I hope it will help you take better care of your newborn cat. Remember, patience and attentiveness are the keys to successful feeding!
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