Kittens under 4 weeks of age cannot regulate their own body temperature. Without the ability to self-regulate, they must rely on external heat sources to maintain a normal body temperature. Typically the mothers provide warmth to their babies, but when it comes to orphaned kittens it is our job as foster parents to take on the mother's role and keep their itty bitty bodies nice and toasty.
What To Look Out For
Kittens should be warm to the touch. If a kitten is cold when you pick them up, action must be taken immediately. Even slight deviations in temperature can cause hypothermia and drastically affect survival rates. Signs of early stage hypothermia include:
- Vigorous shaking
- Cold ears and feet
- Lethargy
- Slowed breathing
- Low heart rate
What To Do If Your Kitten Is Cold
Gently set the kitten on a warm (not hot), heating pad or disc on low. Ensure there is a protective layer between the heating pad/disc and kitten such as a towel or blanket. For an electric heating pad we recommend the RIOGOO Electric Heating Pad and for a microwavable disc we recommend the SnuggleSafe.
Constantly monitor the kitten until its body temperature regulates and occasionally adjust its position on the heating pad/disc so different parts of its body get contact with the heat source. Do not leave the kitten in one position for too long as it's possible to cause burns. If you notice surface burns, take the kitten to an emergency veterinarian immediately.
If possible, check the kitten's rectal temperature. We recommend the iProven Pet Thermometer. The normal body temperature in a newborn kitten ranges from 95-99°F; at 2-3 weeks old it ranges from 97-100°F, and at 4-weeks old it ranges from 99-101°F.
If you've tried the above remedies and the kitten's body temperature has not returned to normal, take them to an emergency veterinarian. On the way, hold the kitten against your chest to share body heat. The veterinarian may have to give the kitten warm intravenous (IV) fluids to bring its temperature back to normal.
Kitten Incubator - The Ultimate Prevention?
An incubator provides kittens with a stable environment to grow up in. The unit is temperature controlled, humidity controlled and has an air filtration system that makes it easier for kittens to breathe. Some incubators even have the ability to attach an oxygen concentrator and a nebulizer for sick kittens. Oftentimes kittens are born with premature lungs that may cause them to gasp. That lack of oxygen can cause seizures and lung failure. Nebulizers are very effective in caring for kittens with nasal congestion, pneumonia and upper respiratory disease. Having a warm stable environment not only increases a kitten's chance at survival but gives them the best opportunity to thrive and become a strong and healthy cat.
Shelters, rescues and foster parents who frequently care for young orphaned kittens love incubators because they can care for more kittens at a higher success rate all at once. Incubators come in several sizes - we recommend the Small Model for a few kittens and the Large Model for larger litters and other neonatal animals such as puppies.
This is never emphasized enough -- so important for the bottle babies!
Really interesting read. Thanks for sharing