The survival of kittens that have been orphaned or abandoned greatly depends on the care showered on them by their human caregivers; these poor kittens will benefit from extra care and attention especially during their first four weeks of life. They derive nutrition from a bottle-fed formula and should be kept warm at all times. One thing to remember when bottle-feeding kittens is to place them belly down on the floor or table surface. Don’t bottle-feed kittens while they are lying on their backs. Kittens usually suckle milk from the bottle for about 10-15 minutes until they are satisfied.

In addition to meeting their needs for essential nutrients, human caregivers also need to assume the responsibility of assisting with the kitten’s elimination, just like a mother cat does. Kittens will benefit from some help until they are about a month old. A cloth that is warm and damp can be used to massage the kitten’s lower belly and the area around the anus until he defecates or urinates. You can also a use moist cotton ball for the task. For more information about the dietary needs of the orphaned kittens, visit your Greenwood, IN animal hospital.