During this time, we also see the highest number of cases involving abandoned newborns. Often, this is intentional and happens immediately after birth, but there are other situations in which newborns are found. Mothers may disappear due to hormonal imbalance, trauma, illness, or death. It is very important that when we find an entire litter of newborns, we do not rush to touch, move, or “rescue” them. Unless it is obvious that they have been abandoned—cold, dirty, crying (a clear sign of the mother’s absence)—it is best to wait and observe whether the mother will return. Today, we will try to outline the initial care for abandoned or found newborn kittens. There are many rescue organizations that provide care for such animals. The first and most important rule is: never feed a cold or overheated kitten. Keeping kittens warm is critical. A heat source—such as a heating pad or a bottle filled with warm water—should always be covered with a cloth made of natural materials, without holes. This allows the kittens to move away if they become too warm and prevents their tiny claws from getting caught. Once again, it is essential to remember that kittens with hypothermia (low body temperature) or hyperthermia (overheating—for example, if left in the sun or inside a closed bag during hot weather) must not be fed. If the kittens are dehydrated or lethargic, they should also not be fed. They must be stabilized first. The second rule is to use only specialized kitten milk replacers. Initially, feeding can be done with a syringe, followed by a transition to a bottle with a nipple. The formula should be prepared according to the manufacturer’s instructions and shaken until fully dissolved. It is recommended to let the formula sit for 3–4 minutes to allow air bubbles to rise to the surface. The milk should flow freely from the nipple, ideally at a rate of 1–2 drops every 2–3 seconds, without squeezing the bottle. If you are using a syringe, do not apply strong pressure. Feeding too quickly, using excessive force, or positioning the kitten incorrectly can cause milk to enter the lungs, leading to aspiration pneumonia, which can be fatal. If a kitten refuses to latch or is too weak, syringe feeding may be attempted by delivering milk along the inside of the cheek, avoiding direct squirting into the throat. Administer one drop at a time, allowing the kitten to swallow before giving the next. Be careful to ensure milk does not come out through the nose. The same bottle or syringe can be used for the entire litter if all kittens are healthy. If there are sick kittens, they should be fed with separate equipment. Before each feeding, nipples and syringes must be thoroughly cleaned. It is recommended to prepare fresh formula for each feeding. Prepared formula can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours and warmed before use, but it has been observed that its taste may slightly change, which can lead to feeding refusal. The milk should always be warm and prepared in the amount needed. Reheating multiple times is not recommended. Kittens should be fed in a prone position (on their belly), not on their back, at an angle of approximately 45 degrees. You may place them on a soft surface. When offering the nipple or syringe, ensure there is no air inside. You can gently place a finger on the kitten’s throat to check if it is swallowing. Support the head carefully with your thumb and forefinger. Even with proper feeding, kittens may sometimes refuse to nurse. One reason could be that they are not hungry—in such cases, they may need stimulation for urination and defecation. It is also possible that the milk is not at the correct temperature or that the nipple is creating a vacuum. There may also be more serious causes requiring veterinary intervention—such as hypothermia, hypoglycemia, dehydration, illness, or trauma. In such cases, feeding via a nasogastric tube may be necessary. Healthy kittens that have eaten will typically slow down, push the nipple away, or fall asleep. This is the time to stimulate urination and defecation, as well as to help them burp. You may attempt another feeding afterward, but it is usually not necessary. Do not force-feed, even if there is milk left. Feeding should be regular and follow a schedule, even if the kittens need to be woken up. Over time, they will become stronger and more confident. If they wake up earlier, they can be fed. It is important to monitor them closely to avoid sudden drops in blood sugar, which can cause them to become lethargic and appear as if they are simply sleeping. Stay tuned for Part Two: burping, cleaning, weight monitoring, weaning, hygiene, and bathing. We believe you can do it. Good luck! Dr. Mircheva