Your Step-by-Step Newborn Kitten Care

Kittens are born with delicate immune systems and need extra help in their first few months to stay healthy. Proper care—like keeping them warm, well-fed, and clean—plays a big role in their survival and healthy growth. This guide walks you through each step to make sure your little one gets the best start in life.

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Why Proper Newborn Kitten Care Is So Important

While mother’s milk is optimal, dry or wet kitten formula can also be used in certain situations. However, never feed your kitten or animal cow’s milk; this can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and other negative responses in cats.

Best Milk Substitutes for Newborn Kittens

Kitten Milk Replacer (KMR): Commercial formulas like PetAg KMR or Breeder’s Edge are best. They provide the protein, fat, and nutrients kittens need.

Goat’s Milk for Pets: Use only products specifically labeled safe for kittens. Avoid raw or unpasteurized goat milk.

Homemade Kitten Formula (Emergency Only): If commercial KMR isn't available, use this recipe for 24 hours max:
1 cup goat’s milk
1 egg yolk
Tiny pinch of gelatin (optional)
Mix well and warm to body temperature

Avoid These Milks
Cow’s milk
Plant-based milks (almond, soy, oat, coconut)
Dog milk replacer

If possible, always consult your veterinarian before choosing a milk replacer, especially if your kitten is weak, premature, or underweight.

When bottle-feeding your kitten, the technique is important. The bottle should be given at around a 45-degree angle, so it does not inhale too much air while feeding. Hold the bottle firmly and prevent the teat from collapsing, leading to increased aspiration of the liquid into their lungs and stomachs.

What Food Can You Give Your Kitten Besides Milk?

As kittens begin to wean, you can gradually introduce soft, nutrient-dense foods. Start with lightly cooked egg yolks, mashed or pureed chicken, turkey, or beef, and soft vegetables like pumpkin or sweet potato. Make sure all foods are plain, unseasoned, and introduced in small amounts. You can also offer high-quality wet kitten food designed for early-stage growth. Always introduce new foods slowly, as a kitten’s digestive system is still developing. Avoid cow’s milk, dairy, or anything heavily processed. When in doubt, ask your vet what’s safe for your kitten’s age and weight.

How Often Should You Feed Your Kitten?

Kittens should be fed three to four times a day, depending on their age. Up to the age of six months, kittens should have unlimited access to dry kitten food throughout the day. Supplementing this diet with some wet kitten food can provide extra balanced nutrition and help keep the kitten hydrated. As they approach six months, you can start transitioning your kitten to two meals daily.

Older cats between one and seven years old can benefit from eating two meals a day. However, for cats older than seven, one meal per day is ideal, as overeating can put an undue strain on their aging digestive system.

How to Groom a Newborn Kitten: Step-by-Step Care

You can use a soft brush designed for cats or a baby brush designed for infants. Start by gently brushing the fur against the grain, and then move to brush in the direction the fur grows. You should avoid using a flea comb on a newborn as this could irritate its delicate skin.

How to Bathe a Newborn Kitten Safely

0–4 weeks - Don't bathe. Use a warm, damp cloth, keeping in mind that newborns can't regulate their temperature well.

4–8 weeks - Your young kitten isn't ready for a full bath unless it's necessary, such as if you see fleas. At this age, only spot clean your cat. Wrap your little one up in a towel immediately after for warmth.

8+ weeks - It's finally safe to bathe your cat. Keep it under five minutes in lukewarm water and make sure your kitty's head stays above water. This is new to your young one. Use only a mild cat-safe shampoo. PawPurity's Biogreen Enriched Shampoo is perfect for your kitty's first baths. It's loaded with organic nutrients, oils, and minerals. Keep your pretty kitty warm and make sure it's completely dry so yeast can't grow.

My Story: A Word of Caution About Yeast

When my Little Guy was 19, I would have to bathe him twice a day because he was incontinent. During the winter, I would dry him as best as I could and then wrap him in a heated blanket. One time, I picked him up and saw pieces of hair from his tail had fallen out. It was yeast from the moist, warm environment. To remedy the situation, I dried his tail completely and sprayed it often with PawPurity's Flea and Tick Spray and the hair grew back. Learn from my mistake....keep your kitty warm, but completely dry.

LIsa Porter, Founder/Owner, PawPurity

When to Trim a Kitten's Nails

Trimming your newborn kitten’s nails should be done every few weeks, especially if they scratch often. Use cat-specific clippers, and ensure you cut only the tips of the nails to avoid cutting too close to the quick. If you accidentally cut into the quick, apply pressure to stop bleeding.

How to Clean a Kitten's Ears

The ears of newborn kittens need to be cleaned regularly. You can use an ear-cleaning solution or a damp make-up remover pad. New cat owners often spray a cotton pad with PawPurity Flea/Tick Spray to clean the inside of the ear, being careful not to allow the solution to drip into the canal. Avoid using Q-Tips as these can cause injury to their delicate ears.

Grooming your newborn kitten is a vital part of taking care of them. Following these steps can help ensure that your newborn kitten grows up healthy and happy!

How to Monitor Your Kitten’s Health at Home

Temperature:

It is normal for a newborn kitten to have a body temperature lower than normal cats. Using a thermometer, measure the kitten’s temperature every few hours to make sure it is between 99-102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. If it is lower than 99, consult your vet immediately.

Weight:

Newborn kittens should gain 5-10% of their body weight daily. First, weigh the kitten using a baby or pet scale, then compare it with the birth weight. If the kitten does not reach the expected weight, supplement with formula. If that does not increase its weight, consider consulting your vet.

Hydration:

Make sure the kitten is properly hydrated by checking its gums; they should be wet, not dry. If they are dry, give them some extra fluids and watch for any signs of dehydration.

Appearance:

Check the eyes, ears, mouth, and nose for any signs of infection or illness. The eyes should be clean, without any discharge. The ears should be free of dirt and mites. The mouth should not have sores or lesions, and the nose should be free of mucus or discharge.

Elimination:

Monitor how often the kitten uses its litter box, and the feces look normal in size, color, and consistency.

Flea and Tick:

Finally, it’s important to remember that flea and tick prevention is essential in newborn kitten care. It can be especially difficult to detect fleas on such small animals, so you’ll want to ensure you’re proactive about keeping them away. Regular baths with repelling flea shampoo and being cautious about other pets introducing fleas into your household are the best preventive care you can provide.

Keep Your Newborn Kitty Warm and Cozy

When it comes to newborn kitten care, providing a warm and safe space is essential. Newborn kittens need a spot to rest and sleep, as well as to explore and play. Choose a safe and secure area of your home that is warm and comfortable. You can use a cardboard box, bin, or pet bed with a comfortable blanket. Make sure the area is free from any hazardous materials, such as cords, loose wires, and dangerous objects.

Put your newborn kitten’s bed in an area that is not easily disturbed, such as a corner or closet. If you have other pets in the house, keep the newborn kitten in a separate space until it is accustomed to its new family and can fend for itself. Newborn cats are more vulnerable and susceptible to injury.

How to Hold a Newborn Kitten

When holding a newborn kitten, the most important thing to keep in mind is safety. Place your hands on either side of its body, supporting the chest and bum. Your fingernails should not be showing, as newborns are incredibly fragile.

Wrap a towel or blanket around it to keep it warm. When feeding, use a specialized bottle designed for kittens or syringe feed in an upright position with the neck supported by cradling it in the crook of your elbow.

Common Diseases Newborn Kittens Are Prone To

Upper respiratory infections

Newborn kittens are highly susceptible to upper respiratory infections, which often cause symptoms like sneezing, watery eyes, and nasal discharge. These infections are commonly spread through viruses or bacteria and can become serious if left untreated.

Feline distemper (panleukopenia)

Feline distemper, also known as panleukopenia, is a highly contagious and often fatal disease. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, extreme lethargy, and loss of appetite. Immediate veterinary care is critical for survival.

Flea Anemia

Flea anemia occurs when a kitten becomes infested with fleas, causing significant blood loss. Symptoms include pale gums, weakness, and lethargy. Because of their small size, even a few fleas can be life-threatening to newborn kittens.

Fading Kitten Syndrome

Fading kitten syndrome is a life-threatening condition that affects newborn kittens, typically within the first few weeks of life. Affected kittens may appear normal at birth but then suddenly become weak, stop nursing, fail to gain weight, and may die unexpectedly. Early signs include lethargy, constant crying, cool body temperature, and refusal to eat. Because this condition can progress rapidly, it’s critical to seek immediate veterinary care if you notice any of these symptoms.

Worms and Parasites

Newborn kittens are often affected by worms and intestinal parasites, which can lead to a bloated belly, diarrhea, and weight loss. These parasites can quickly drain essential nutrients, weakening the kitten’s immune system and stunting growth.

Eye Infections

Eye infections are common in young kittens and can cause red, swollen, or crusty eyes. If left untreated, they may result in vision damage or permanent eye issues, making early care essential. PawPurity has a gentle face wash rich in antibacterials and antifungals to keep the area clean and help with inflammation around the eyes. Adult cat owners often use it for tear stains, crusties, and eye boogers. If you decide to use it on your newborn, be very gentle and use it sparingly.

Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar)

Hypoglycemia occurs when a kitten’s blood sugar drops too low, often due to missed feedings or illness. Symptoms include tremors, weakness, disorientation, and even seizures. Immediate nutritional support is critical.

Hypothermia (Low Body Temperature)

Kittens cannot regulate their body temperature well, making them prone to hypothermia. A cold body, slow heart rate, and lethargy are warning signs. Without prompt warming, hypothermia can be fatal.

When to Spay or Neuter Your Kitten (And Why It Matters)

Most kittens should be spayed (female) or neutered (male) between 4 and 6 months of age. This timing helps prevent unwanted litters, reduces behavioral issues such as spraying or marking, and lowers the risk of reproductive diseases. In some cases, early-age spay/neuter can be performed between 8 and 12 weeks, especially in shelters, as long as the kitten weighs at least 2 to 3 pounds. While 4 to 6 months is the ideal window for most healthy kittens, surgery after 6 months is still effective but may come with a slightly increased chance of undesirable behaviors or accidental pregnancy.

Kittens can become pregnant as early as 4 months, so early sterilization is key. Spaying and neutering also reduce roaming, territorial marking, and vocalizations. Long-term health benefits include a lower risk of uterine infections, testicular cancer, and hormone-related diseases. Surgery can also lead to calmer behavior and make the kitten easier to socialize.

Always consult your veterinarian to determine the safest and most appropriate time based on your kitten’s weight, breed, and overall health.

Finally, monitor its overall health closely. Take note of any changes in behavior, temperature, or hydration levels. If you notice any further distress in your newborn kitten, contact your veterinarian. With proper care and attention, your kitten should be feeling better soon.

Caring for a newborn kitten is a big responsibility—but also a beautiful one. Stay alert to changes in behavior, hydration, or weight. If anything seems off, call your vet. With love, attention, and the right care routine, your kitten will grow into a healthy, happy cat.

If you have questions about PawPurity products or anything in this guide, feel free to contact us at info@pawpurity.com. You can also visit our FAQ page.

Congratulations on your new bundle of joy!
– The PawPurity Team