Feeding a stray kitten requires some knowledge of what foods are safe and appropriate for their age. Here are some tips from the search results:
For all ages:
- Milk replacement: Kittens cannot be fed cows milk as it can cause diarrhea and dehydration. Instead, purchase kitten milk replacement (KMR) from a local pet store along with a special bottle for feeding. The premixed liquid formula is easier to use than the powder form.
- Wet food: Wet kitten food is a good option for all ages. It is recommended to feed a mix of kitten kibble and wet food four times a day for kittens 4-8 weeks old.
For young kittens:
- Meat: Cooked beef, pork, lamb, chicken, and turkey are good sources of protein and other important nutrients for young kittens.
- Eggs: Eggs are another good source of protein for young kittens.
- Whole grains: Whole grains can be fed to young kittens, but they should be cooked very well before feeding to avoid digestive upset.
- Bread: Small amounts of bread can be given to kittens that are old enough to eat solid food.
For older kittens:
- Dry food: Kittens can be gradually switched to eating dry food at around 4 weeks of age.
- Kibble and wet food mix: A mix of kitten kibble and wet food is recommended for kittens 4-8 weeks old.
It is important to note that feeding utensils should be treated like those for human babies to avoid bacterial infections. Additionally, kittens should be fed every 2-4 hours depending on their age and weight gain should be monitored. If a kitten is not gaining weight, the amount of food should be increased, and if it has diarrhea, the amount should be decreased. If you are unsure about what to feed a stray kitten, it is best to consult with a veterinarian or enroll in online pet consultations.