How to deal with newborn kittens

Have you ever thought about how to deal with newborn kittens? Dealing with kittens is one of the things that may be difficult for cat breeders; Especially if they do not have sufficient knowledge of dealing with newborns; Which creates a lot of difficulties and problems for them; So we now learn about ways to deal with newborn kittens, listing the most important tips that you should know when dealing with kittens.
What do newborn kittens eat?
Newborn kittens depend entirely on breast milk. This milk is rich in nutrients and multiple benefits that kittens need during their growth journey in the first weeks, as breast milk contains a selection of the best healthy vitamins and minerals that are important for the growth and strengthening of kittens.
If breast milk is not available; The solution is to consume milk intended only for cats; This milk must be free of lactose so that it does not harm the digestive system of cats, and it must also contain the same natural elements that breast milk provides, as it is relied upon from birth until weaning.
In the same context; We find that some who do not have sufficient experience in raising kittens use yogurt in the journey of feeding newborn kittens; This is definitely harmful, and this element cannot be relied upon after birth because it may harm the digestive system of kittens, and may negatively affect their health.
The reason for the meowing of newborn kittens
Newborn kittens meowing frequently is common and nothing to worry about, so let us learn together about the most important causes of meowing and how to overcome them:
Hunger: The first reason why kittens meow immediately after birth is their feeling of hunger, as the feeling of hunger makes them search for a source of food; Which is first represented by the need for the mother.
Feeling cold: After the kittens are born, they will feel cold, and it will be difficult for them to adapt to the outside world in the first days, but this feeling quickly ends once they adapt to the external environment and the general weather.
The need for the mother: Young kittens staying for weeks in the mother’s womb makes them innately attached to her, and therefore they will always need her to give them the security they are looking for in this new world.
Pain: In some cases, the reason for meowing may be the feeling of pain as a result of contracting a disease, so if you find that the period of meowing has exceeded the limit; You should visit the vet immediately to introduce the cats to him and get appropriate treatment.
When to open the eyes of newborn kittens
Opening the eyes of newborn kittens is essential, as kittens are not born with their eyes open; Rather, it takes a period that may vary between 7 to 14 days to fully open its eyes.
In the same context, we find that newborn kittens do not open their eyes completely, while this process takes place gradually, eventually reaching a complete opening of the eyes, as they begin to gain the ability to see the nature around them completely within a period not exceeding two weeks, and if This period increases, and the cat may need veterinary intervention to receive the necessary treatment.
Do newborn kittens drink water?
Newborn kittens may not need to drink water while receiving breast milk, as they get their fluid needs through breast milk or formula, while when they begin the journey of exploring solid food; Here she will need to drink water in order to achieve the balance she needs for her digestive system.
Weight of newborn kittens
The normal weight of newborn kittens ranges from 90 to 100 grams, but it can be more or less than normal; This varies according to each cat and its condition, as the minimum weight is 75 grams, and if it is less than that, the veterinarian must be informed immediately to find out the reason, and provide the necessary directions to increase this weight and reach the normal weight.
Stages of growth of newborn kittens
Newborn kittens are growing with many notable developments; It can be noted that:
Weight: The weight of kittens varies at birth, ranging from a minimum of 75 to 100 grams, and this weight increases as the kittens get older.
Senses: Kittens may need some time for their senses to function normally, as you notice that the eyes and ears are completely closed after birth, and cats are also unable to sense what is around them normally, but as they grow; You will notice that the senses develop, until the cats reach the seventh and eighth weeks, for their senses to function fully.
Movement: Newborn kittens cannot move normally, while starting from the third week, kittens begin their exploratory journey and begin moving and walking.
Exploration: Cats cannot explore in its early stages, but with time they can explore the world; Especially with complete vision.
Hair growth: Cats are usually born with very thin hair, but with time hair growth is complete; Especially if cats get a complete diet.
Cleaning newborn kittens
When caring for newborn kittens; Two things must be taken into account:
Cleanliness of the place: Cats must be provided with a completely clean and safe environment, so that they can receive more care and avoid contracting diseases.
Cleaning cats: If the kittens are under the care of the mother; Don't worry about cleaning them; Because the mother works instinctively to clean and care for them during their early stages, while if the mother is not present; The solution is to clean with a soft, damp towel, avoiding using hot water or applying products that contain chemical cleaning agents.
Breastfeeding newborn kittens
Kittens are breastfed through breast milk, or alternative milk. Let us learn which breastfeeding method is best for each of them:
Breast milk: if the mother is present; Kittens breastfeed without any intervention from you, as they obtain milk innately from the mother.
Alternative milk: in the absence of the mother; The steps for preparing alternative milk must be followed, along with bringing feeding bottles designated for cats; Those that help them obtain food in an ideal way to obtain integrated nutrition.
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