Essential 0-1 Year Puppy & Kitten Feeding Guide
Universal Dog and Cat Basic Feeding Guide:
① Lactation Period (03 Weeks)
When it comes to feeding, there are two scenarios to consider:
With the Mother Present:
During the first three weeks after birth, both dogs and cats will provide their young with abundant mother's milk. Unlike cow's milk, mother's milk has a lower lactose content and is rich in various nutrients. As long as the kittens or puppies are allowed to drink their mother's milk comfortably, they will receive adequate nutrition. Moreover, the mothers will protect their young, alleviating concerns about various issues.
Without the Mother Present:
In this case, you will need to feed the baby artificially. Apart from regular meals, you should also pay attention to the baby's hygiene and environment.
Newborns cannot be fed directly with cow's milk. It is recommended to use specialized puppy or kitten milk powder, which is widely available online. If the baby is less than a month old, it is advisable to use a specialized baby bottle for feeding, and the milk powder should be dissolved in warm water.
Living Environment and Health:
Provide a clean and comfortable nest that should not be moved frequently. The environment should not be too cold or too hot, especially during winter when you need to ensure the baby's warmth. Do not rush the baby to open its eyes; they will open naturally when the time is right. Avoid taking the baby outside during this period to prevent infections from various viruses. The cleanliness of the cat or dog nest should be maintained daily.
② Weaning Period (48 Weeks)
During this period, the kittens or puppies become more active and start exploring the world.
Feeding:
Buy specialized puppy or kitten food and complement it with meat juice, minced meat, or soft food, as their teeth are not fully developed yet. This is a crucial time for shaping their food preferences, so expose them to different ingredients to prevent picky eating later on. Avoid or minimize salt intake.
Living Conditions:
Prepare a suitable and warm nest for the kitten or puppy, and also a dedicated 'toilet' area, teaching them how to use it. This period requires diligence; otherwise, you may face some inconvenience. Don't forget to provide a food bowl and ensure they have access to fresh water, which should be changed daily.
After one month, you can take them for vaccinations. As a responsible owner, this is something you must do. After vaccination, avoid bathing them for about two weeks. You can take them out to explore the world about a week after vaccination. Exposing them to sunlight is beneficial for their health.
③ Growth Period (Before 1 Year)
This stage is a period of rapid growth and personality formation for the kittens or puppies. Pay attention to the personality development of your furry companion!
Feeding:
Besides providing balanced nutrition, high calcium, high calories, and highprotein foods to support their growth, purchase some dental chews to help them channel their teething energy.
Living Conditions:
Choose a nest that fits their size, with a single nest usually sufficient for cats. For dogs, it may not be enough. Buy some appropriate toys, such as scratching posts and climbing frames for cats, and chew toys like bones and noisemaking toys for dogs. You will also need to purchase cleaning supplies, such as vacuum cleaners and lint removers.