Your guide to neonatal care for newborn puppies and kittens

Taking care of newborn puppies or kittens without their mom can seem pretty tough, but don’t worry, you’re not alone. Lots of folks have been in your shoes, and with the help of vets and neonate experts, you can give these little furballs the care they need. This guide is here to help you out, making sure the process feels like a team effort.

Creating a safe and nurturing environment is the foundation of successful neonatal care for newborn puppies and kittens. One of the most important aspects of this setup is temperature regulation. Your tiny new friends are essentially poikilothermic, Trusted Source This is an approved Trusted Source for betterpet. Learn more about Trusted Sources meaning they depend entirely on their surroundings to maintain their body temperature.

For neonatal puppies

When it comes to puppies, setting up a cozy whelping box is a must. Think of it as their first little home where they’ll feel snug and secure. A whelping box is a special area where puppies are warm and safe. It should be just big enough for the puppies to crawl around and grow but small enough to keep them feeling protected.

Temperature tips. Puppies can’t keep themselves warm, so it’s up to you to help out. Keep the box at about 85°F to 90°F for the first few days, then gradually lower it to around 80°F. You can use a heating pad under a blanket or a heat lamp placed high enough to avoid burns. Always keep an eye on the temperature and make adjustments as needed.

Safety first. Puppies love to explore, so make sure all electrical cords are out of reach. Also, keep the whelping area away from other pets in the house to prevent any accidents or stress for the little ones. Having all your supplies, like clean towels and feeding bottles, within arm’s reach will make things a lot easier. Keep an eye on large breed mothers to make sure they aren’t stepping on their newborns.

For neonatal kittens

Kittens need a similar setup with a queening box, which is like their own safe haven. This is where a mother cat would normally raise her young, and it should provide the same warmth and security.

Queening box basics. The queening box should be lined with soft, clean bedding, and the sides should be high enough to keep the kittens from wandering off but not so high that mom (if she’s around) can’t climb in and out easily.

Temperature tips. Just like puppies, kittens need a warm environment. Keep the box temperature between 85°F and 90°F at first, dropping to about 80°F as they grow. A wrapped heating pad or lamp attached securely somewhere outside of the box will do the trick. Make sure the heat source is set to one side so kittens can move away if they want to and always ensure it’s set up safely to avoid overheating.

Keep it safe. Make sure the area is free from any hazards, like small objects they could swallow or places where they could get stuck. Regularly check on them to see if they’re comfortable and adjust the setup as needed.

Sometimes, even the tiniest creatures need a little extra help to get started. While mother cats usually take care of their young ones, there are occasions when they might need a helping hand, as do puppies. Here are some friendly tips to keep in mind if you ever find yourself needing to resuscitate a newborn:

• Suctioning. If you notice any mucus or fluid around a newborn’s nose or mouth, gently use a bulb syringe to suction it out. This helps clear their airways and makes breathing easier.
• Rubbing for stimulation. Gently rubbing the newborn with a soft towel can help stimulate their breathing. This gentle massage encourages them to take their first breaths.
• Handling the umbilical cord. If the umbilical cord is still attached and hasn’t been severed naturally, ensure it’s not tangled or pulling on the newborn. You may need to gently cut it, leaving about an inch attached. Sterilize a sharp pair of scissors, or get a brand-new pair for this purpose to ensure it’s done safely and cleanly.
• Removing the amniotic sac. If the mother hasn’t or won’t do it, you may need to free the newborn from the amniotic sac.

Monitoring the progress of your newborn puppies and kittens is crucial to ensure they are thriving. Here’s a simple chart to help you track their milestones:

What’s fading kitten/puppy syndrome?

It’s important to watch for signs that your little ones are hitting their milestones. If they’re not, it could be a sign of fading kitten or puppy syndrome. This condition means a newborn isn’t growing or developing as expected, which can be worrying. Keeping track of their progress and consulting with a vet if you notice any concerns can make all the difference.

Caring for newborn puppies and kittens is a rewarding experience, but it comes with its own set of challenges. While some issues can be managed at home with a little patience and care, others require prompt attention from a veterinarian. Recognizing the difference is key to ensuring your little ones thrive.

• Stillborn puppies/kittens. Unfortunately, not every newborn makes it. If you encounter a stillborn puppy or kitten, you can take them to the vet for an evaluation and/or pathology. Understanding the cause can help prevent further losses and ensure the health of the remaining litter.
• Helping with elimination after every meal. Newborns need assistance to eliminate waste. Gently rubbing their lower abdomen with a soft, damp cloth can stimulate this process. It mimics the mother’s grooming and helps them stay clean and comfortable.
• Signs of dehydration. If a neonate seems lethargic or has a dry mouth, they might be dehydrated. Ensure they are nursing properly, and consult your vet if you suspect dehydration.
• Weight loss or lack of gain. Regularly weigh the neonates to ensure they’re gaining weight. A lack of weight gain or noticeable weight loss requires immediate veterinary attention.
• Cold to the touch. Newborns can’t regulate their body temperature well. If they feel cold, gently warm them using a towel and a warm water bottle, but avoid overheating.
• Difficulty breathing. Any signs of labored breathing or unusual sounds should be addressed by a vet as soon as possible.

Caring for neonates is a truly special journey. Each little puppy and kitten relies on your care and attention to thrive. Stay attentive, be patient, and remember that you’re not in it alone. Whenever you feel like you need a little extra help, don’t hesitate to seek advice from experienced caregivers and your veterinarian.