Introducing an orphaned kitten to a nursing cat can be a life-changing moment—one that gives a vulnerable newborn the best chance at survival. When done correctly, this process allows the kitten to gain warmth, antibodies, nourishment, and social development from a mother cat who understands exactly what a tiny newborn needs.
This guide explains how to introduce an orphaned kitten to a nursing cat step-by-step, using science-backed insights, feline behavioral cues, and practical knowledge from experienced rescuers. Each section stays tightly focused so you can follow the process with confidence.
In This Article
Why Introduce an Orphaned Kitten to a Nursing Cat
A healthy nursing queen offers what no bottle or formula can match: natural antibodies, warmth, stimulation, and constant care. An orphaned kitten who successfully joins a litter benefits from:
- Optimal immune support through colostrum and ongoing milk
- Stronger weight gain due to more frequent and instinctive feeding
- Improved digestion because cat milk contains species-specific enzymes
- Better socialization from both the mother cat and her littermates
- Around-the-clock grooming and warmth that humans cannot replicate
For the nursing cat, accepting an orphan often strengthens maternal instincts and keeps milk production balanced. Some queens even become calmer when their caregiving drive is fulfilled.
Case Study: “Pebble the Orphan”
A 2-day-old kitten named Pebble was introduced to a queen with four similar-aged kittens. After scent-blending and controlled introduction, the mother began grooming Pebble within minutes. Pebble’s weight gain increased from 4 grams/day (bottle-fed) to 15 grams/day once nursing naturally—demonstrating the profound benefits of successful integration.
Assessing if the Nursing Cat Is Suitable for Introducing an Orphaned Kitten
Before attempting integration, you must determine whether the mother cat is physically, emotionally, and hormonally prepared to accept another kitten. Not all queens will welcome a newcomer.
Signs the Nursing Cat Is a Good Candidate
- Calm, confident demeanor around humans
- Protective but not overly defensive of her litter
- Healthy appetite and steady milk production
- No history of rejecting her own kittens
- Comfortable with gentle handling
Red Flags That Suggest You Should Not Introduce the Kitten
- Growling, hissing, or lunging when her nest is approached
- Severe anxiety or pacing after giving birth
- Signs of mastitis (hot, painful mammary glands)
- Underweight or malnourished queen
- Kittens already struggling to nurse due to low supply
Introducing an orphan to an overstressed cat can place all kittens at risk.
Helpful Chart: Is the Nursing Cat Ready?
| Behavior or Condition | Accepting Queen | High-Risk Queen |
| Calm during handling | ✔️ Yes | ❌ No |
| Balanced milk supply | ✔️ Yes | ❌ Poor production |
| Accepts scent changes | ✔️ Yes | ❌ Overly territorial |
| Healthy, eating well | ✔️ Yes | ❌ Sick or underweight |
| Gentle with her kittens | ✔️ Yes | ❌ Rough, rejecting |
If the queen falls mostly in the “high-risk” column, consider bottle-feeding or seeking a different lactating cat.
Health Checks Before You Introduce an Orphaned Kitten to a Nursing Cat
Health safety protects both the orphaned kitten and the queen’s existing litter. Neonatal kittens are extremely vulnerable, and pathogens spread quickly.
Essential Veterinary Checks for the Orphaned Kitten
Before attempting introduction, confirm:
- Body temperature: Should be between 95–99°F (35–37.2°C) in newborns
- Hydration status: Gum moisture and skin elasticity
- Parasites: Fleas, mites, roundworms
- Umbilical cord condition: Free from infection or swelling
- General health: Steady breathing, no nasal discharge, no lethargy
A sick kitten must be stabilized before being placed near a nursing queen.
Health Screening for the Nursing Cat and Her Litter
- No upper respiratory infections
- Normal appetite, hydration, and grooming
- No diarrhea in her kittens (early sign of viral exposure)
- Up-to-date parasite prevention appropriate for lactating cats
Quick Table: Safe vs. Unsafe for Introduction
| Metric | Safe for Introduction | Unsafe / Delay Needed |
| Kitten temperature | 95–99°F | Below 94°F (danger) |
| Kitten hydration | Moist gums | Sticky, dry gums |
| Parasites | None or treated | Active flea infestation |
| Queen’s health | Strong, eating | Fever, mastitis, weakness |
| Litter health | Active, nursing | Sneezing, diarrhea |
Expert Insight
“A cold, dehydrated kitten will be rejected by even the most maternal queen. Stabilize first, introduce second.”
—A registered feline neonatal technician
Preparing the Environment for Introducing an Orphaned Kitten to a Nursing Cat
A calm, protected environment is essential when learning how to introduce an orphaned kitten to a nursing cat. Queens are naturally territorial, and even the most loving mother cat can become defensive if her space feels disrupted. Creating the right setup increases the chances of acceptance and reduces stress for every kitten involved.
Key Elements of the Ideal Introduction Space
- Quiet location with minimal foot traffic
- Soft lighting, avoiding bright or harsh overhead bulbs
- Comfortable temperature between 80–85°F (26–29°C)
- Clean bedding that already carries the queen’s scent
- A secure nesting area such as a large box, playpen, or enclosed bed
What to Avoid
- Loud noises (TV, vacuuming, children running around)
- Strong odors (cleaners, perfumes, candles)
- Frequent handling and distractions
- Sudden changes to the queen’s routine
Environmental Setup Checklist
| Requirement | Why It Matters |
| Warmth | Newborns cannot regulate temperature |
| Familiar scents | Helps the queen feel ownership and safety |
| Low stress | Reduces risk of aggression or rejection |
| Nest security | Encourages natural maternal behavior |
Pro Tip
“Cats accept newcomers more easily when their nesting space remains untouched. Change as little as possible.”
Scent Preparation: How to Make the Orphaned Kitten Smell Familiar
Scent blending is one of the most critical steps when figuring out how to introduce an orphaned kitten to a nursing cat. Because cats rely heavily on scent for identification, a foreign-smelling kitten can trigger defensive or rejecting behavior. Your goal is to make the orphan smell like part of the family before physical introduction.
Steps to Blend Scents Successfully
1. Transfer the Queen’s Scent
Use a clean, soft cloth or piece of bedding from the queen’s nest.
- Gently rub it along the orphaned kitten’s sides, face, paws, and tail.
- Avoid covering the kitten in strong-smelling substances.
- Repeat for a few minutes until the scents merge.
2. Mask Unfamiliar Odors
If the kitten was bottle-fed or recently rescued, it may smell like formula, humans, or outdoor environments.
Safe ways to mask unfamiliar scents include:
- Using kitten-safe unscented wipes
- Rubbing a tiny bit of the queen’s milk or saliva on the kitten (if possible)
- Allowing the orphan to rest on the queen’s bedding for 10–15 minutes
3. Allow Mutual Scent Exchange
Place the kitten near (but not touching) the queen’s nest so the queen can smell the orphan from a distance.
This builds subconscious familiarity before contact.
Table: Good vs. Bad Scent-Preparation Techniques
| Technique | Safe? | Notes |
| Rubbing with queen’s bedding | ✔️ | Most effective method |
| Using wipes | ✔️ (unscented only) | Avoid anything with perfumes |
| Rubbing kitten with food | ❌ | Can trigger aggression |
| Perfumes/sprays | ❌ | Overwhelms cats’ sensitive noses |
The Step-by-Step Process: How to Introduce an Orphaned Kitten to a Nursing Cat
Once the environment is ready and scents are blended, it’s time for the most delicate part of the process. The steps below reflect proven methods used by rescuers, neonatal specialists, and experienced breeders.
Step 1: Start with a Distance Introduction
Place the kitten several inches outside the queen’s nest. This allows the mother cat to sniff and observe without feeling threatened.
Signs the mother is reacting positively:
- Soft eyes
- Gentle sniffing
- Silent curiosity
- Relaxed ears
Negative signs include hissing, growling, tail flicking, or crouching.
Step 2: Supervised Close-Range Sniffing
If the queen appears calm, move the kitten closer—slowly and confidently.
Do not force contact. Let the queen initiate the first touch or investigation.
Tips:
- Keep your hands relaxed to avoid transferring nervous energy.
- Allow the queen to sniff the kitten’s head first; this is how cats identify young.
Step 3: Place the Orphaned Kitten at the Edge of the Nest
If the queen does not show aggression, gently place the orphan at the outer edge of the nest.
At this stage:
- The kitten should not crawl on top of the queen or her kittens.
- The queen may groom, sniff, or nudge the newcomer.
- Light grooming is a strong sign of acceptance.
Step 4: Allow Nursing Attempts
If the queen begins grooming or allows the kitten to curl up beside her, the next step is nursing.
Healthy Signs of Acceptance
- Queen guides the kitten toward a nipple
- She purrs or kneads
- She shifts slightly to make room
- No swatting or pushing away
Warning Signs
- Growling when the kitten approaches her belly
- Pinning the kitten down
- Ignoring the kitten entirely for long periods
- Excessive licking that appears aggressive rather than caring
If any aggressive behavior appears, remove the kitten immediately and try again later.
Step 5: Observe, Don’t Interfere
Once the kitten begins nursing:
- Watch quietly for 10–15 minutes
- Ensure the orphan can latch and stay attached
- Confirm the queen’s kittens are still feeding normally
A Helpful Quote
“Acceptance rarely happens in a single second—it unfolds in moments. Patience is your greatest tool.”
—Feline maternal behavior researcher
Monitoring the Nursing Cat’s Reaction During the Introduction
Once the orphaned kitten is in the nest, your role shifts to quiet observation. During this stage of learning how to introduce an orphaned kitten to a nursing cat, the queen’s behavior will tell you everything you need to know about whether the integration will succeed.
Positive Signs of Acceptance
A mother cat that welcomes the orphan will show calm, nurturing behaviors such as:
- Gentle grooming around the kitten’s head and neck
- Allowing the kitten to snuggle among her litter
- Relaxed posture with paws tucked or stretched
- Soft rumbling purrs
- Shifting her body to create nursing access
These reactions mean the queen recognizes the kitten as part of her group.
Concerning or Negative Behaviors
If the queen displays the following behaviors, pause the introduction immediately:
- Growling, hissing, or snapping
- Swatting at the kitten
- Avoiding the nest entirely
- Pinning the kitten down or pushing it away
- Restlessness or vocal distress
Sometimes the queen is not rejecting the kitten itself, but responding to stress, pain, or overprotectiveness.
How Long to Observe the Introduction
The first 20–30 minutes are the most important. Continue checking in for the next few hours and lightly monitor overnight.
Safe Monitoring Schedule
| Time After Introduction | What to Watch For |
| First 15 minutes | Grooming, sniffing, or calm curiosity |
| First hour | Attempts to nurse, kitten warmth |
| Hours 2–6 | Balanced nursing among all kittens |
| After 12 hours | Signs of stable acceptance |
Expert Insight
“Acceptance is usually clear within the first hour. If the queen is calm and the kitten is nursing, chances of long-term success are high.”
Helping the Orphaned Kitten Latch and Nurse Successfully
Even when a mother cat accepts the newcomer, the orphaned kitten may struggle to latch due to weakness, dehydration, or unfamiliarity. Successful latching is a crucial milestone when you’re figuring out how to introduce an orphaned kitten to a nursing cat.
Why Latching Challenges Occur
- The kitten may be younger than the queen’s litter
- Weakness from previous inadequate feeding
- Competition from stronger siblings
- Poor coordination in very young or premature kittens
How to Encourage a Proper Latch
Step-by-Step Support Techniques
Warm the kitten first.
Cold kittens cannot nurse properly. Ensure body temperature is at least 95°F (35°C).
Position the kitten correctly.
Place the kitten belly-down, head supported, facing a nipple.
Guide, don’t force.
Gently move the kitten’s mouth toward the nipple and allow instinct to take over.
Reduce competition temporarily.
Move the other kittens to the side of the nest for a few minutes to give the orphan a fair start.
Check for swallowing motions.
A kitten who is successfully nursing will show rhythmic jaw movement and gentle swallowing.
When to Use Supplemental Feeding
If the kitten cannot latch after 10–15 minutes, supplemental feeding may be necessary to stabilize energy levels.
Safe options:
- Commercial kitten formula
- Syringe feeding (slowly and carefully)
- Bottle feeding with a newborn nipple
- Tube feeding by a trained professional only
Quick Reference Table: Latching Troubleshooting
| Problem | Likely Cause | What to Do |
| Kitten keeps slipping off | Weakness or poor positioning | Warm, reposition, reduce competition |
| Kitten refuses to suck | Cold or dehydrated | Warm, hydrate with formula |
| Queen pushes kitten away | Scent mismatch or stress | More scent blending, try again later |
| Other kittens overpower orphan | Size difference | Rotate nursing time |
Managing the Nursing Cat’s Existing Litter During the Introduction
When learning how to introduce an orphaned kitten to a nursing cat, one of the most overlooked factors is the behavior and needs of the queen’s existing kittens. Their reactions can influence the mother’s acceptance and the orphan’s survival.
Why the Existing Litter Matters
Kittens compete for:
- Warmth
- Nurse access
- Grooming attention
- Space in the nest
A newly added kitten, especially a smaller or weaker one, may struggle to keep up.
Tips for Managing the Litter Fairly
Give the Orphan Short Periods of Priority Nursing
Rotate the kittens so the orphan has dedicated time to latch and feed without being shoved aside.
Keep Litters of Different Ages Organized
If the orphan is a newborn and the queen’s litter is older, the bigger kittens may unintentionally push the newcomer away. In this case:
- Nurse the orphan separately first
- Reintroduce the older kittens afterward
Watch for Signs of Rejection From Littermates
Littermates rarely show true aggression, but warning behaviors include:
- Crawling over the orphan repeatedly
- Blocking access to nipples
- Pushing the orphan away with stronger limbs
These behaviors usually improve once the orphan smells like the group.
Support the Queen’s Physical Needs
A mother cat feeding extra kittens will need:
- 50–100% more calories
- High-quality kitten food
- Fresh water at all times
- Electrolyte-enhanced broths (cat-safe)
- A consistent feeding schedule
Table: Extra Nutritional Needs for a Queen Feeding an Extra Kitten
| Resource | Recommended Amount | Why It Helps |
| Wet kitten food | Free-fed | High moisture + calories |
| Water | Always full | Supports milk production |
| Protein | 30–35% in diet | Essential for lactation |
| Calcium | Balance in diet | Prevents eclampsia |
A Real-World Example
A queen raising four kittens had difficulty feeding a newly introduced orphan because her milk supply was stretched thin. Increasing her caloric intake by 1.5× restored healthy production and allowed all kittens to thrive.
Troubleshooting: What to Do if the Nursing Cat Rejects the Orphaned Kitten
Even with careful preparation, a mother cat may reject an orphaned kitten. This can happen for several reasons—stress, illness, hormonal imbalance, or simply a strong maternal instinct to protect her existing litter. Knowing how to handle rejection is a core part of learning how to introduce an orphaned kitten to a nursing cat safely.
Common Reasons for Rejection
- The kitten is too cold or too weak
- Scent mismatch or strong foreign odors
- The queen is overwhelmed or in pain
- Existing kittens are already demanding high milk output
- The queen senses illness in the orphan
Identifying True Rejection
A mother cat may take time to adjust. Temporary hesitation is normal. True rejection becomes clear when the queen:
- Hisses, growls, or swats every time the kitten approaches
- Leaves the nest to avoid the orphan
- Shows tense posture and pinned-back ears
- Frequently removes or pushes the kitten away
If these behaviors last more than 10–15 minutes after multiple attempts, pause the introduction.
Strategies to Try Again Safely
Improve the Scent Blend
Repeat scent-swapping using bedding or gentle grooming with the queen’s saliva (if safe to collect). Sometimes a second or third blending session makes the difference.
Reintroduce at a Calmer Time
Try again when:
- The queen has recently eaten
- The room is quieter
- Her kittens are sleeping
- The queen is already nursing (strong maternal hormones active)
Warm and Hydrate the Orphan
A dehydrated or cold kitten emits distress signals that queens interpret as danger.
Warm the kitten to 95–99°F (35–37.2°C) before retrying.
Use a “Nursing Box Technique”
Place the queen in a slightly smaller nesting box and gently offer the orphan. Limited space reduces pacing and territorial swatting.
When to Stop Trying
If the queen becomes aggressive, stressed, or attempts to harm the kitten, stop immediately.
Alternatives to Queen Acceptance
- Another lactating cat with similar-aged kittens
- Bottle-feeding every 2–3 hours
- Tube feeding (ONLY by trained professionals)
- Neonatal foster caregivers
Post-Introduction Care for Both the Orphaned Kitten and the Nursing Cat
Once acceptance occurs, the real work shifts to maintaining a healthy environment, monitoring nutrition, and ensuring the queen remains physically comfortable.
Daily Monitoring for the Orphaned Kitten
Track the kitten’s progress just as you would for newborns receiving bottle care.
Important Metrics to Record
- Weight gain: Kittens should gain 10–15 grams per day
- Nursing frequency: Every 1–2 hours in the first week
- Hydration: Moist gums, warm body
- Activity level: Moderate wiggling and rooting behavior
Warning Signs
- Failures to gain weight
- Cold body temperature
- Constant crying
- Flat or listless posture
If any of these occur, supplement feeding immediately and consult a vet.
Supporting the Nursing Queen
A queen raising additional kittens requires more energy and comfort.
Help Her by Providing:
- High-calorie, high-protein kitten food
- Fresh water bowls within reach of the nest
- Quiet rest time
- Clean bedding changed every 24–48 hours
- Warmth and privacy
Table: Daily Care Checklist
| Task | Orphaned Kitten | Nursing Queen |
| Weight check | ✔️ Daily | — |
| Monitor milk intake | ✔️ | ✔️ Ensure no pain or swelling |
| Replace bedding | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Provide warmth | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Observe behavior | ✔️ | ✔️ Stress signs |
Encourage Social Development
A successfully integrated kitten learns from its adoptive siblings. Allowing the kitten to bond naturally helps:
- Motor skills
- Early communication
- Sleep regulation
- Trust-building with the queen
“A queen who accepts an orphan becomes the heartbeat of its development. Her influence shapes the kitten’s entire early life.”
When to Seek Veterinary or Professional Help
Although many introductions succeed, there are times when professional intervention is necessary. Recognizing these scenarios early protects both the queen and every kitten in the nest.
Situations Requiring Immediate Veterinary Attention
For the Orphaned Kitten
- No weight gain for 24 hours
- Persistent crying and restlessness
- Pale gums or cold body
- Labored breathing
- Diarrhea or swelling around the umbilical cord
For the Nursing Queen
- Hard, swollen, or hot mammary glands (possible mastitis)
- Refusal to nurse any kittens
- Lethargy, fever, or rapid breathing
- Bloody discharge beyond early postpartum period
- Signs of eclampsia: tremors, panting, disorientation
Behavioral Problems Requiring Expert Help
Some queens may display:
- Resource guarding
- Aggression toward certain kittens
- Anxiety around nest changes
- Obsessive overgrooming of specific kittens
A feline behaviorist or neonatal rescue specialist can help guide the situation.
When to Contact a Rescue Organization
If you cannot get the queen to accept the orphan or the kitten’s health is unstable, contact:
- Local animal rescue groups
- Neonatal foster networks
- Veterinary clinics with newborn care programs
- TNR organizations that support queens and litters
These professionals have access to surrogate queens, incubators, emergency formula supplies, and neonatal expertise.
For detailed neonatal care guidelines, you can refer to trusted resources like the ASPCA’s kitten care page, which provides additional medical and handling recommendations.
Conclusion: Ensuring a Safe, Successful Introduction for an Orphaned Kitten
Learning how to introduce an orphaned kitten to a nursing cat is both an art and a science. When you approach the process with patience, preparation, and an understanding of feline maternal behavior, you dramatically increase the chances of success. A smooth introduction allows the orphaned kitten to receive the warmth, immunity, and nourishment only a mother cat can provide—while giving the queen an expanded family that fits naturally into her caregiving instincts.
Successful integration isn’t luck; it’s a combination of:
- Proper scent blending
- Controlled, calm introductions
- Close observation
- Understanding the queen’s maternal cues
- Ensuring all kittens receive adequate feeding and warmth
- Knowing when to step in and when to step back
The reward is enormous. A once-fragile kitten gains a full feline childhood, and the queen experiences the deep satisfaction of raising a thriving, united litter.
“When a mother cat embraces an orphan, she is not just nursing a life—she is expanding her world.”
Additional Tips to Improve Long-Term Integration
Once the kitten is accepted, it’s time to focus on bonding, healthy development, and stable routines. These small details create a secure environment that benefits the entire feline family.
Maintain a Consistent Environment
Cats thrive on predictability. Keep the nesting area:
- Quiet
- Warm
- Undisturbed
- Clean and dry
Avoid moving the nest unless absolutely necessary. Even subtle changes can cause stress.
Provide Safe Supplemental Support
Even with queen acceptance, some orphans need extra help.
Signs supplemental feeding might still be helpful:
- Slower weight gain compared to siblings
- Difficulty staying latched
- Smaller size due to age differences
- Occasional crying after nursing
Providing 1–2 small supplemental meals per day can bridge the gap while still allowing the queen to provide most care.
Support Social Development
Healthy socialization includes:
- Interaction with littermates
- Exposure to gentle human handling
- Observation of the queen’s grooming and communication
This leads to confident, well-adjusted kittens ready for adoption or lifelong companionship.
Summary: Key Steps in How to Introduce an Orphaned Kitten to a Nursing Cat
Below is a quick-reference table that summarizes the complete process from preparation to long-term care.
Quick Reference Table
| Stage | Key Actions | Expected Outcome |
| Preparation | Warmth, scent blending, quiet space | Queen feels safe |
| Introduction | Slow, supervised contact | Queen assesses kitten |
| Acceptance | Grooming, nursing access | Orphan joins litter |
| Troubleshooting | Retry, scent swap, rewarm kitten | Improved chances |
| Post-care | Weight monitoring, nutrition | Healthy growth |
| Long-term support | Stable environment | Bonded, thriving kittens |
This roadmap ensures you feel confident and prepared at every step.
FAQs: How to Introduce an Orphaned Kitten to a Nursing Cat
How long does it take for a nursing cat to accept an orphaned kitten?
Every nursing cat is different. Some accept a new kitten within minutes, while others may take several hours of supervised introductions. If the queen growls, swats, or avoids the kitten consistently after 12–24 hours, additional scent blending and gradual reintroductions are needed.
What is the best age to introduce an orphaned kitten to a nursing cat?
Nursing cats are most receptive when the orphaned kitten is newborn to four weeks old. Older kittens are bigger, smell different, and behave more actively, which can trigger rejection.
Should I bathe the orphaned kitten before the introduction?
A full bath isn’t usually necessary unless the kitten is soiled. What matters most is scent removal using unscented pet wipes, followed by scent blending with the queen’s bedding.
Can I force the nursing cat to accept the orphaned kitten?
No. A mother cat must accept the kitten naturally. Forcing contact could cause the queen to reject both the orphaned kitten and her own litter. Always prioritize slow, controlled introductions.
What if the mother cat keeps hissing at the orphaned kitten?
Hissing is a normal first reaction. Continue scent-swapping, provide distance, and re-attempt introductions later. If the queen tries to bite or pin the kitten aggressively, stop and reassess.
How do I know the nursing cat has fully accepted the orphaned kitten?
Signs of full acceptance include:
- Allowing the kitten to nurse
- Grooming the kitten
- Curling around the kitten
- Bringing the kitten into the nest
- No vocal warnings or tension
What should I do if the orphaned kitten is smaller than the queen’s litter?
Smaller orphaned kittens may struggle to latch. You can:
- Offer supplemental bottle feeding
- Place the kitten on the back nipples, which produce more milk
- Ensure stronger kittens don’t push the orphan away
Can two nursing cats share an orphaned kitten?
Yes—some households use a “co-nursing” setup. But introductions must be made separately because each queen has her own scent and maternal boundaries.
Is it safe to introduce an orphaned kitten from outdoors?
Outdoors-born kittens may carry fleas, worms, or infections. Always:
- Deworm
- Treat fleas (safe for newborns: a flea comb only)
- Check for signs of infection
- Get a vet exam ASAP
How often should I monitor the kitten after introduction?
For the first 48 hours, monitor very closely. Watch for:
- Successful nursing
- Normal body temperature
- No crying episodes
- Proper breathing and movement
After acceptance, a quick check every few hours is enough.
What if the nursing cat rejects the orphaned kitten after initially accepting it?
Sudden rejection can happen if:
- The queen is stressed
- The kitten becomes ill
- A new scent overwhelms the queen’s nest
Reintroduce gradually, reduce household stress, and ensure the kitten is warm, fed, and hydrated.
If rejection continues, switch to full bottle-feeding with a kitten milk replacer (KMR).
Can I introduce multiple orphaned kittens at once?
Yes, but introduce them together to avoid repeating the whole process. The queen may accept one but not the others, so supervise carefully.
What if the nursing cat’s milk supply is too low for an extra kitten?
Increase her calories with:
- High-quality kitten food
- Kitten milk supplement for the queen
- Frequent meals
- Hydration support
You may need to bottle-feed between nursing sessions.
