What to do about orphaned kittens?

    Vets and cat lovers often hear it, "I've found this abandoned kitten (or kittens) and I don't know how to care for it!". It is sad and far too common. Far too often outside cats are killed or injured or just plain abandoned and can no longer care for their kittens. If this has happened to a cat in your neighborhood, or one you've just happened upon, then please read on. Kittens are surely a handful and a challenge, but they're also one of the cutest things on earth.

    Whether you've found a litter of kittens or a solitary one, make a search for the mother if at all possible. Perhaps she's just out hunting for food. Check with neighbors to see if they recognize them or know of anyone with an outdoor cat. It is likely, however, that the kittens are feral and may be terrified of you, depending on their age. At any rate, be sure to wash your hands (you don't want to infect the little ones), and prepare a clean box with a clean towel for them. An electric blanket will be especially useful, since they'll need to be kept at about 86 degrees F until they are about 6 weeks old.

    If the kittens are indeed orphaned or abandoned, they'll need food very soon. The next best thing is to find another mother cat who will take the kittens in and feed them as her own. Vets and shelters may be able to find a foster mother. Mother's milk is always best, but a formula milk substitute heated to about 100 degrees F will have to do in the mean time. Most vets and pet stores will have this product. Cow's milk is not an effective substitute and does not contain the proper nutrient levels for a kitten.

    Kittens can be hand fed from a rubber dropper (although they might not get used to it at first), but they will more than likely knead also. If you place them on a warm towel wrapped around a hot water bottle, they'll knead the whole time happily. Newborn kittens will also suckle from a bottle, but the nipple must be very small for them. Some vets and farm supply places will have them available. Eventually, kittens will happily feed from a low saucer. Depending on their age, the kittens will need to be fed very often. As often as every two hours for a newborn to about 3 weeks, then

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