My 4-week-old kitten won't eat. How often should I syringe feed her?

Question

Hello. A start kitten wondered on my porch yesterday. I took her to the vet, she's 4-6 weeks. Upper respiratory infection (now on amoxicillin), and eye infection (on some cream), and got fluids and dewormer. Shes not really eating on her own and hasn't urinated or made a bowel movement. I gave her 3cc of warm milk, and later water, and later some mushed kitten food the vet gave me. My question is how often should I "force feed" her. She did pee recently. Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Mediumhair | Female | 0.7 lbs

Dr. Strydom, DVM · Accepted Answer

Small, frequent meals are best. Start with 3cc every few hours and then gradually increase the amount every few days by 1-2cc per feeding. Don't get up in the middle of the night to feed unless you want to. She should be fine to eat during the day until you go to bed and then again starting in the morning. I would try to avoid giving milk unless you use kitten milk replacer (ie: ESBILAC). The majority of cats are lactose intolerant (believe it or not) and dairy products can end up causing diarrhea and other issues. You are better off syringing mushed up kitten food or human baby foods (meat flavors). If you need to, add water to get it more liquidy. I actually like this food best for this situation: ( https://www.royalcanin.com/products/royal-canin-feline-health-nutrition-mother-babycat-canned-cat-food-ultra-soft-mousse/4057 ) CAUTION: Read the labels of the human baby foods carefully. DO NOT buy any food containing any form of onion or garlic (fresh, cooked, powder, etc) as they are toxic to cats. A serious condition called Heinz Body Anemia can result. Hope this helps. Best wishes.

My 4-week-old kitten won't eat. How often should I syringe feed her?

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