Hand-Rearing Kittens

Preferred Feeding Instructions for Temperature Ranges of Kitten

Note: A kitten with a body temperature below 94F is clinically hypothermic and likely to die/may already be dying. Its digestive system does not function at this temperature.

Environmental Humidity

Low humidity and poor liquid intake leads to dehydration. Signs of dehydration are poor skin elasticity and sticky mucous membranes (gums). You can determine dehydration by the skin pinch or "tenting" test. Gently pinch the kitten's skin around the shoulder blade. Pull it out just a little way i.e. "tent" it. When released, it should immediately return to normal. If it remains tented, the kitten is badly dehydrated and probably needs injected fluids. If it returns slowly to normal, the kitten needs rehydration fluids.

Maintaining a humidity of 55% - 65% in the incubator or nest box prevents the kittens' skin from drying out. Humidifiers can be as simple as a shallow dish of water or wet towel placed on a warm radiator. A steaming kettle (be careful of boiling water) will provide instant humidity in the room, but must be switched off and placed somewhere safe after use.

Elimination (Urination & Defecation)

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