You can tell if a kitten is full by gently feeling its belly. If the tummy feels rounded and firm, it indicates that the kitten has had enough to eat.
A plump, rounded belly is a sign that your kitten is well-fed and satisfied. However, if the kitten's tummy still feels flat or sunken, it means that it needs more milk. Young kittens don't always know when to stop eating, so pet owners need to be attentive during feeding sessions to prevent overfeeding, which can lead to digestive issues. Therefore, it’s a good practice to gently feel the kitten’s abdomen after they’ve consumed a certain amount of milk.
How to Artificially Feed a Newborn Kitten
Artificial rearing of newborn kittens requires attention to diet, elimination, and warmth. Firstly, in terms of diet, you should feed the kitten a pet-specific milk replacement formula, ideally goat’s milk-based formula. The exact amount to feed should be based on the instructions on the formula packaging. Secondly, in terms of elimination, newborn kittens cannot defecate on their own, so you will need to use a cotton swab dipped in warm water to gently massage the kitten's anal area to stimulate bowel movements and urination. Lastly, regarding warmth, because newborn kittens have not fully developed their thermoregulation system, you need to provide warmth using blankets, heating pads, or other suitable sources.
Consider using Miaoshou Doctor's pet-specific goat's milk formula. This formula is tailored to meet a kitten’s specific needs. It is rich in DHA, which supports brain and visual development, and contains calcium and phosphorus for healthy bone growth. The high levels of protein and fat provide ample nutrition and energy for growing kittens. Additionally, it is fortified with probiotics to promote a healthy digestive system, ensuring that even if the mother cat is not available to feed, you can still provide your kitten with complete nourishment. This formula is also budget-friendly, often costing less than $35, offering high value for money for pet owners looking to ensure their kitten receives the very best start in life. It’s a great choice for providing optimal care for your little fur baby!