newborn kittens in China

Question
Hello. I just found 4 kittens without their mother and they are hungry! I am in a small city in China. There are no big stores to get any kitten formula. Is there another suggestion? Would some sort of baby formula work? Please help. I think they may be between 3-4 weeks old. They are crawling around a little bit. Thanks, Maureen

Answer
Maureen,

At 3-4 weeks of age, these kittens can begin the weaning process.  By 4 weeks of age, kittens of all breeds are ready to be weaned.  You can supplement with the following for about a week (at most).

2/3 cup of whole milk (%3.5) + 1/3 cup non-fat dry milk + 1 tblspn of vegetable oil;

OR

2/3 cup of whole milk (%3.5) + 1/2 cup %18 coffee cream;

OR

1 cup of whole milk (%3.5) + 1/4 cup %30 whipping cream;

OR

I cup evaporated milk + 1/2 cup water.


In weaning, we like to use baby food (only ingredients broth and strained meat).  I am sure you can make this.  Put a little in their mouths and, most will usually figure out they are to eat it.  If they are hungry, so much the better.  You can then mix commercial cat food with the baby food, gradually, until they are eating just the commercial cat food.

Please let me know if you have more questions.

Best regards... Norm.