Expert: Jessica - 10/15/2009

Question
Hi, I found and am caring for 4 kittens 2 to 3 weeks old. I have been feeding them formula as directed for the past day and a half, I feeds so far every 3 hours or so. They were abandoned by mum when the nest was disturbed and went without for over 12 to 18 hours. They seem a lot more alert and are trying to play with each other now. I give them a wipe down before and after each feed, more so after the feed working from top to bottom. My worry is that I have not seen any poo. After the feed I wipe them down as they play and purr spending 5 or so minutes on each one, yes they struggle and complain but they do pee. Why no Poo yet? There bedding has been wet a few times. looks like and smells like urine. Nothing solid yet or runny for that matter. Can you suggest what to look for and do?
Cheers concerned foster mum.

Answer
Hi Donna.  Constipation can be a common problem in formula fed kittens.  You can try giving the kittens each several drops of mineral oil by mouth to help lubricate things.  A general rule is 2-3 drops per ounce of body weight.  You also can try inserting some lubricating jelly into the rectum, which is actually the safest idea as there is no risk of causing diarrhea.  Most vets recommend to do this by coating the end of a rectal thermometer with the jelly, and then inserting it into the rectum 1 inch.  Gently move the thermometer in a circular motion for 10 seconds or so to stimulate the kittens to push.  This generally produces a bowel movement within a couple of minutes.  But if they go longer than 2 days total without a bowel movement, they really need to see a vet, as it this point, a full enema may be required.

Ideally, the kittens should be having at least one bowel movement a day, but some kittens will go every other day without having problems.  If the kittens become constipated again, you may need to thicken up the formula a bit (if you are using powdered formula that you reconstitute with water).  This concentrates more fat into each feeding, which will encourage a bowel movement.  If this is not effective, discuss the possibility of giving the kittens a small amount of a lubricant daily to prevent constipation.

Good luck!

Jessica