How should I feed a two-day-old kitten or puppy?

Bringing a newborn puppy or kitten into your home is an incredibly rewarding experience. These tiny creatures are delicate and require careful attention, especially in their first days of life. Feeding them properly is crucial to their health and development. Here’s how to approach feeding your two-day-old furball.

Understanding Their Needs

Newborn puppies and kittens are not yet able to regulate their body temperature or digest solid food. They rely on their mother’s milk for nutrition and warmth. If the mother is unavailable, you will need to step in. It’s essential to mimic the natural process as closely as possible.

Choosing the Right Milk Replacement

For orphaned or rejected newborns, you will need a milk replacement formula specifically designed for puppies or kittens. These formulas are balanced to provide the necessary nutrients for their growth. Avoid using cow’s milk or other dairy products, as these can cause digestive issues.

Feeding Schedule

Newborns need to be fed frequently, about every two to three hours. This schedule helps them get the nutrients they need for their rapid growth. It’s important to keep a consistent feeding routine to ensure they are getting enough to eat.

Preparing the Formula

Follow the instructions on the milk replacement formula packaging to prepare it. The formula should be warm, but not hot. You can test the temperature by some on your wrist—it should feel comfortably warm. Using a syringe or a bottle with a nipple designed for puppies or kittens will make feeding easier.

Feeding Technique

Gently hold the newborn in a horizontal position and allow it to nurse from the bottle or syringe. Be patient and let the puppy or kitten take its time. If you’re using a syringe, slowly release the formula so the newborn can swallow comfortably. Avoid force-feeding, as this can cause aspiration or digestive issues.

Monitoring Intake

Keep track of how much the newborn is eating. Newborn puppies and kittens should consume about 1 to 2 tablespoons of formula per ounce of body weight per day. This amount will be divided into the feedings throughout the day.

Stimulating Elimination

After each feeding, gently stimulate the newborn’s genital area with a warm, damp cloth to encourage urination and defecation. This mimics the mother’s natural grooming behavior and helps keep the newborn clean.

Handling and Bonding

While feeding is crucial, so is handling and bonding. Spend time cuddling and petting your newborn to help it feel secure and loved. This early bonding can lead to a stronger, more affectionate relationship as the animal grows.

Health and Hygiene

Keep the feeding area clean to prevent infections. Wash your hands before and after handling the newborn and its feeding supplies. Regularly check the newborn for signs of illness, such as lethargy, diarrhea, or vomiting, and consult a veterinarian if you have any concerns.

Transitioning to Solid Food

As the puppy or kitten grows, it will eventually need to transition to solid food. This process typically begins around four weeks of age. Start by mixing a small amount of wet puppy or kitten food with the milk replacement formula to make a gruel-like consistency. Gradually increase the amount of solid food and decrease the formula until the newborn is eating solid food exclusively.

Caring for a newborn puppy or kitten requires dedication and attention to detail. Feeding them properly is one of the most important aspects of their care. By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your tiny companion grows into a healthy, happy adult.