Bottle kitties am I doing everything I need to?
I have three 9 day old kittens that I’ve been syringe feeding for a few days are they okay?
First pic is of them at almost 4 days last picture is them today. I have kitten formula and bottles and syringes and the miracle nipple they do good sometimes and try to fight it other times and try to root around me or the area for a different nipple 😂 I’m assuming it’s normal cuz they do that with the mom cats but there is no other nipple haha. I feed them as much as they’ll eat I help them go to the bathroom they all have pooped and peed usually they go right back to sleep after feeding but sometimes one of them will just keep crying until it gets comfortable or sometimes they want a tiny bit more milk there’s just a lot and I have no way to monitor their weight but they seem to be doing good. At 9 days two of them have their eyes pretty open all there umbilical cords have been off for like two to three days they’re warm I keep a heat source with them anything else I should know? I’ve done so much research to get the most information and they’re still being stubborn so I want to ask if I’m doing enough is there anything else I could be doing? I make sure the milk is a good temperature as well they start suckling and it’s like they get bored and try to find a new nipple lol they seem happy and bigger just a little fussy sometimes. #bottlekitten #neonatalkitten #9daysold #sleepy #kittens #orphanedkitten
Caring for orphaned kittens can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. Understanding their needs is crucial for their survival and growth. At 9 days old, kittens are becoming more active and may start to open their eyes, which is a sign that they are developing properly. It sounds like you are already doing a great job with syringe feeding and ensuring they are warm. One key factor is to keep a consistent feeding schedule; typically, orphaned kittens should be fed every 2-3 hours, even at night. Make sure the kitten formula is properly warmed and not too hot or cold before feeding. If they seem to be seeking different nipples, it might be an indicator that they're looking for comfort, so ensure they are calm and comfortable while feeding. Pay close attention to their weight, as monitoring it is crucial. If you suspect that you cannot weigh them easily, you can use simple methods like tracking their growth visually or regularly checking their overall health with a veterinarian. Their behavior, such as eating well and maintaining warmth, are also key indicators of their wellbeing. Additionally, providing a safe, quiet environment for them to rest is essential; they need lots of sleep for growth. If possible, engage with them gently when they are awake to help them feel loved and secure. Keep up the good work, and never hesitate to reach out to veterinary professionals or animal care communities for specific concerns!
Do you have Facebook? There is a Facebook group that is helpful!