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What to feed newborn orphaned kittens when their mother is gone?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | 2 days old

Hi doctor, Two kittens are there in my home of two days age their mother went to somewhere else and she dint come back. Kittens are screaming. Which is food is suggestable for these two day kittens. I used to feed diluted milk by using syringe. Please tell me which is the proper and try to give me home made food for these kittens. Thanks, Ameeroon 9491671813

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 11th, 2018

I am sorry to hear about your kittens! A commercially formulated kitten milk, such as KMR or Just Born are the best milk sources for your kitten and can be found at many pet stores or vet offices. Until you find this you can make your own milk at home following the recipe listed in this article, which also provides details on caring for orphaned kittens https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951456

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 16th, 2017

    It's OK to use cow's milk...just mix a raw egg in a cup of milk. However, kittens this young are at a disadvantage without having the mother's milk, because their milk has protective antibodies in it. Make sure to feed every two hours (day and night) for the first two weeks. If you do this, you have the best chance of keeping her healthy, but know that she may get very sick anyway, because of not having the mother's milk. Good luck and I hope all goes well.

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    Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 26th, 2019

    Hello.Yes, for the short term you can use whole cow milk, but try to get them on a kitten formula as soon as you can. Weaning can actually start at 4 weeks of age. Kitten formula: 4 ozs. whole cow's milk 4 ozs. water 2 egg yolks 1 tsp vegetable oil 2 Tums crushed ( for extra calcium ) You should feed the kittens 3-4 times daily until weaned. At 4 weeks, start to introduce solid food by mixing kitten chow with warm water or formula, or canned pate canned cat food. Good luck & thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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