It’s heartbreaking when a mother cat refuses to feed her newborn kittens. Whether due to stress, illness, inexperience, or complications from birth, this situation puts the kittens at serious risk. Without immediate help, their survival chances drop drastically. But with the right knowledge, bottle-feeding and caring for these tiny lives can give them a real shot.
First, it’s important to keep the kittens warm. Newborns can’t regulate their body temperature, and being cold can be just as dangerous as hunger. Place them in a box lined with soft blankets and use a heating pad (on low) or warm water bottle wrapped in a towel. Make sure there’s space for the kittens to move away from the heat source if they get too warm.
Next comes feeding. Use kitten-specific formula, not cow’s milk, as it lacks the nutrients kittens need and can cause digestive issues. You can find kitten milk replacer (KMR) at pet stores or from a vet. Use a small bottle with a specially designed nipple and warm the formula to about body temperature. Feed the kittens while they lie on their bellies—never on their backs like human babies, as this could cause them to aspirate.
Newborns need feeding every 2 to 3 hours, including overnight. After feeding, gently rub their lower belly and anus with a warm, damp cloth to help them urinate and defecate, mimicking what a mother cat would do.
Beyond feeding and warmth, love and gentle care are vital. Handle the kittens softly and talk to them in a soothing voice. A vet visit is essential to ensure they’re healthy and getting the right nutrition.
Raising orphaned or rejected kittens is challenging, but deeply rewarding. Every tiny meow, every gained ounce, is a sign of your effort and dedication. With patience and consistent care, these fragile babies can grow into healthy, loving cats.
