Trust these important, science-backed nutrition and care tips for your tiniest companions:
Do’s
Feed in a proper position: Always feed neonates in a belly-down (sternal) position to prevent aspiration.
Ensure the neonate is warm before feeding; feeding a chilled animal can lead to digestive issues.
Feed only species-specific milk replacers; cow's milk or human baby formula can be harmful.
Sterilize all feeding equipment before each use to prevent bacterial growth.
If needed, assist with elimination after each feeding.
Weigh neonates daily to ensure they are gaining weight appropriately.
Tilt the bottle to prevent air ingestion and ensure the formula flows slowly.
Consult a veterinarian if you notice signs of illness such as lethargy, diarrhea, or refusal to eat.
Discard any unused, warmed formula after feeding.
Don’ts
Don't feed on the back: Feeding a neonate on the back increases the risk of aspiration pneumonia.
Don't feed a cold neonate: Feeding when the animal is cold can lead to digestive problems.
Don't use inappropriate milk: Avoid feeding cow's milk or human baby formula; they lack necessary nutrients and can cause diarrhea.
Don't use unwashed or contaminated bottles, syringes, or nipples.
Don't microwave formula — this can cause uneven heating and destroys vital nutrients and proteins.
Don't overfeed or underfeed the neonate — this can lead to digestive distress or serious health issues.
Don't rush the feeding process or force-feed — this can cause aspiration or trauma.
Don't ignore early warning signs or delay veterinary care — conditions can worsen rapidly.
Don't reheat and reuse the same formula — this increases the risk of bacterial growth.
Additional Resources
Milk replacers, probiotics and feeding accessories for neonate kittens and puppies who are orphaned or need additional supplementation and weaning products.
Kittens
Milk Replacers:
KMR® Milk Replacer Powder
Mixes with water, great for larger litters
KMR® Milk Replacer Liquid
Ready-to-feed liquid for smaller litters
PetLac® Kitten Powder
Mixes with water, great for larger litters
PetLac® Kitten Liquid
Ready-to-feed liquid for smaller litters
Not sure which milk replacer is right for you? Compare them here.
Probiotics:
Weaning:
Accessories:
Puppies
Milk Replacers:
Goats Milk Esbilac® Powder
For sensitive tummies. Mixes with water, great for larger litters
Esbilac® Milk Replacer Powder
Mixes with water, great for larger litters
Esbilac® Milk Replacer Liquid
Ready-to-feed liquid for smaller litters
PetLac Puppy Powder
Mixes with water, great for larger litters
PetLac® Puppy Liquid
Ready-to-feed liquid for smaller litters
Not sure which milk replacer is right for you? Compare them here.
Probiotics:
Weaning:
Accessories:
