The shopping list
Gather these items before you start. Most are available at a pet store, pharmacy, or online. In a pinch, your vet or local shelter can often donate a starter kit.
Essentials — get these first
Kitten Milk Replacer (KMR)
Powdered formula such as PetAg KMR, Breeders' Edge Foster Care, or Royal Canin Babycat Milk. Powder lasts longer than liquid. Never use cow's, goat's, or plant milk — it will make them sick.
Nursing bottle + nipples
A small pet nursing bottle (e.g. PetAg or Miracle Nipple). The Miracle Nipple "Original" fits most newborns. Have spares.
1 ml & 3 ml syringes
Plain (no needle) oral syringes for very tiny or weak kittens who can't latch onto a bottle yet.
Heat source
A pet-safe heating pad (e.g. K&H Lectro-Kennel, Snuggle Safe microwave disc), or a hot water bottle wrapped in towels.
Digital thermometer
For checking nest temperature. A rectal thermometer is also useful if a kitten seems sick (normal: 100–102.5°F / 37.8–39.2°C).
Gram kitchen scale
The most important diagnostic tool you own. Weigh every kitten, every day, at the same time.
Cleaning & toileting
Soft cloths & cotton pads
Cotton rounds, soft washcloths, or unscented baby wipes — for stimulating toileting and cleaning faces after feeds.
Unscented baby shampoo
Only if a kitten is truly soiled. Use a damp cloth bath, not a full submersion bath.
Pet-safe wound cleaner
Saline solution or diluted chlorhexidine for the umbilical cord or small scrapes.
Trash bin with lid
Soiled cloths add up quickly. A small lidded bin near your nursing station is a lifesaver.
Nest & bedding
Carrier or sturdy box
A small cat carrier or cardboard box with high walls so a heat source stays trapped inside.
Fleece blankets (lots)
Fleece is safe — kittens can't snag claws in it. Avoid loose-weave towels, terrycloth loops, and anything with strings. Plan to change bedding twice a day.
Snuggle toy or rolled towel
Something soft for them to nestle against. A SnuggleKittie with a heartbeat insert can be very soothing for singletons.
Good to have
Pedialyte (unflavored)
For mild dehydration, mixed with formula on a vet's advice. Never give a cold kitten anything by mouth.
Karo syrup or honey
A small dab on the gums can revive a kitten in hypoglycemic shock while you call the vet. Use only in emergencies.
Feeding log notebook
Track weight, time fed, amount taken, and poops. Patterns reveal problems early.
A vet on speed dial
Save your nearest 24-hour emergency clinic before you need them.
Never use these
Cow's milk, goat's milk, almond/oat/soy milk, human infant formula, sugar water as a meal, electric heating pads on high, or microwaved milk. Each can cause serious illness or death in newborn kittens.