How to Feed a Kitten That Won't Open Its Mouth for Milk

When feeding a kitten, you can use a spoon or a bottle. If the kitten refuses to open its mouth to drink, you can use a syringe to administer the milk. Remember to go slowly to avoid choking the kitten.

Three Ways to Feed a Kitten

1. Using a Spoon

This method is slow and requires patience. Gently pour the milk from the spoon into the kitten's mouth, making sure not to pour too quickly to prevent the milk from entering the kitten's lungs. Also, do not tilt the kitten's head too far back, as this can also lead to milk entering the lungs. Newborn kittens have not fully developed, and there may not be immediate signs of distress or coughing if milk enters the lungs. This method is suitable for weak kittens who cannot suckle on their own.

2. Using a Bottle

Kittens can usually drink milk from their own dish at around two months old. Before this, kittens, particularly those separated from their mothers too early, require hand-feeding. It’s best to use a bottle to feed the kitten. If that's not possible, consider using a dropper. However, be cautious not to give too much at once, as milk can enter the bronchi and cause suffocation! Ensure that the bottle's nipple is appropriate for a kitten and that the milk flows at a steady rate.

3. Using a Syringe

This method is similar to spoon-feeding, making it suitable for weak kittens that can’t suckle independently. It’s also cleaner and quicker. Load a measured amount of milk into the syringe, and release a drop at a time into the kitten's mouth to allow for easy swallowing without choking. Keep track of how much milk is given during each feeding. If the kitten realizes the milk is coming from the syringe, it may start to suckle on the tip, drawing the milk out on its own. At this point, it’s advisable to switch to a bottle if possible.Read more here:Pet Breeds