Bottle Babies

One type of animal that is in high demand for foster care are "bottle babies". I have some experience with bottle kittens so that is what I will be talking about-- although some of this will also apply to puppies. As always please leave comments about your experiences and any tips you have. I admit my experience with bottle babies is limited. 

So bottles babies are ridiculously adorable, but they require a lot of care. First, what is a bottle baby? A bottle baby is a kitten or puppy that still requires nursing but is no longer with their mother (typically found orphaned) so they rely on you to bottle feed them and provide other motherly care. Kittens are usually weaned around 3 weeks so until then they are considered bottle babies. 

Bottle babies require extra care including: 
Warmth-- heating pads and lots of blankets. They are unable to regulate their own body temperature at this age. (if you use a heating pad make sure there is room for them to get off of the heating pad in case they get too warm) 

Isolation from other animals-- their immune system isn't fully functioning and they are not vaccinated so they are more susceptible to diseases. 

Feeding-- Feeding needs to be done every 2-4 hours depending on the age of the kitten. Amount depends on size of kitten. Only use products specially made for bottle kittens-- like KMR. The shelter will generally provide this. Follow directions for mixing and make sure it is warm- but not too hot. Be careful heating in the microwave because it can heat unevenly. When feeding allow the kitten to be positioned upright (not on its back like a baby). You'll know it has latched on if you see the ears moving up and down (its the cutest thing ever). Feel their belly after they eat to make sure it full, but not distended (It should be big but not hard).  Weigh the kittens daily with a gram scale to make sure they are gaining weight. 

Me bottle feeding Minnie

Stimulate pottying-- this is the part some people are turned off by, but its really not that bad. At this age the kittens are unable to go potty by themselves. Usually the mom takes care of this but since our bottle babies are orphaned it is now our job. The easiest way I have found to do it is to use a wash cloth and get it wet with warm water. Then rub the kitties bum with it until they potty (do this over the sink or trash can). 

Lots of Love-- give them lots of love and snuggles. They are missing the love from mom so I try to simulate that with snuggly blankets or a stuffed animal for them to cuddle with. 

So that's the basics of bottle kittens. Of course every kitten/litter is different so the care you provide will need to be adjusted to their needs.