Foster Feeding Guide – Kitten Edition

Caring for kittens in foster is lifesaving work, and proper feeding is the foundation of their growth and survival. Kittens have very specific nutritional needs that change rapidly in the first weeks of life. This guide outlines what to feed, how often to feed, and what to monitor as kittens transition from bottle feeding to solid food.

Primary Nutrition: Kitten milk replacer (KMR)

How Often: Every 2–3 hours, including overnight

Feeding Notes:

• Use commercial kitten milk replacer only (never cow’s milk)

• Feed kittens on their bellies with their head level

• Allow kittens to nurse at their own pace—never squeeze the bottle

• After every feeding, gently stimulate to help them urinate and defecate

• Never microwave bottles containing formula. Instead, heat a container of water separately and place the bottle inside it to warm gradually.

What to Watch For:

• Daily weight gain (essential for survival)

• Warm bodies and strong suckling

Primary Nutrition: Bottle feeding + introduction to gruel

How Often:

• Bottle feeding every 3–4 hours

• Offer gruel 1–2 times per day

What Is Kitten Gruel?

• Canned kitten food mixed with kitten milk replacer or warm water

• Blended to a soupy consistency

Feeding Notes:

• Expect messy eating—this is normal

• Kittens may walk through or sit in food

• Bottle feeding should continue to ensure adequate nutrition

Primary Nutrition: Gruel transitioning to soft food

How Often: 4 meals per day

Feeding Notes:

• Gradually thicken gruel by reducing liquid

• Kittens should begin chewing and eating independently

• Bottle feeding is reduced and typically discontinued by the end of this stage

• Provide shallow dishes of fresh water

What to Watch For:

• Steady weight gain

• Normal stools during food transitions

Primary Nutrition: Solid kitten food

How Often: 3–4 meals per day

Feeding Notes:

• Feed kitten-specific canned or dry food

• Dry food may be moistened with water if needed

• Avoid sudden food changes to prevent diarrhea

Ready for Adoption:

• Fully weaned

• Eating independently

• Using the litter box consistently

• Always use kitten-specific food and formula

• Clean bottles, bowls, and feeding areas after each use

• Monitor weight, appetite, hydration, and stool daily

• Contact the foster team immediately if a kitten:

  • Refuses to eat

  • Has persistent diarrhea or vomiting

  • Is losing weight or not gaining

Feeding kittens through their earliest stages requires dedication, patience, and consistency. Your care gives these kittens the chance to grow strong and healthy and move one step closer to a forever home.

If you have questions about feeding schedules, amounts, or transitions, please reach out to the foster team—we are always here to support you.