Caring for a one-week-old kitten is a serious commitment. These kittens are fragile, blind, and fully dependent on human help if they don’t have their mother. Whether you’ve rescued an orphaned kitten or are supporting a queen (mother cat) with a litter, this guide is for you. It covers only what matters: real, practical tips that help the kitten survive and thrive.
1. Temperature Comes First
A one-week-old kitten cannot regulate its body temperature. If they’re too cold, they won’t eat. If they’re too warm, they’ll overheat. Before feeding, before handling—check their warmth.
Ideal body temperature: 99°F to 102°F (37.2°C to 38.9°C).
Use a heating pad on low, placed under a blanket in one part of their nesting area. Never place the kitten directly on the heat source.
Room temperature should be at least 75°F (24°C).
No drafts. No cold floors. Always keep part of the area unheated so the kitten can move away if they get too warm.
2. Feeding: Not Just a Bottle and Go
Kittens this young eat every 2–3 hours, day and night. Yes, even at 3 a.m.
No cow’s milk. It can cause diarrhea and death. Use a kitten milk replacer (KMR)—available at most pet stores or vets.
Use a kitten feeding bottle or a 1 mL syringe for very tiny mouths. Warm the formula to body temperature (not hot).
Hold the kitten belly down, head upright—never on its back.
Feed slowly. If milk comes from the nose, stop. That could mean aspiration, which is dangerous.
Amount: about 2–6 mL per feeding, depending on size and strength. Never force-feed.
If you're unsure, see a vet or contact a local rescue. Malnutrition at this stage is critical.
3. Bathroom Business: You’re in Charge
At one week old, kittens cannot urinate or defecate on their own. They need help, just like they’d get from their mother.
After every feeding, stimulate the kitten’s genitals with a warm, damp cloth or cotton ball.
Gently wipe until the kitten pees or poops. This can take a minute or two.
Watch the color and consistency:
Urine should be pale yellow.
Stool should be soft, mustard-colored if formula-fed.
If they haven’t pooped in over 24 hours, contact a vet.
4. Keep the Nest Clean and Dry
Sanitation matters. Dirty bedding invites bacteria and illness, especially when immune systems are still developing.
Line the nest with soft, washable blankets. Avoid towels with loose threads that can catch claws.
Change bedding daily—or immediately if soiled.
Keep the space small, warm, quiet, and lowstress. No loud sounds, bright lights, or frequent handling by children or strangers.
If you have other pets, keep them away. A kitten this young has no protection against viruses or parasites.
5. Monitor Weight and Health Daily
Healthy kittens should gain about 10–15 grams per day. A digital kitchen scale (in grams) works best.
Weigh at the same time each day.
Record the weight.
If a kitten doesn’t gain weight for 24–48 hours, get medical help.
Check for signs of illness: cold body, lethargy, constant crying, diarrhea, bloated belly, or nasal/eye discharge.
Early intervention saves lives. Don’t wait for things to get worse.
When to Call a Vet
Even if things look okay, schedule a vet check within the first week. This is especially important if the kitten was found outdoors or is showing any signs of distress.
Call a vet if:
The kitten won’t eat or is losing weight
There’s vomiting, diarrhea, or bloating
You suspect dehydration (skin doesn’t snap back when gently pinched)
They’re cold and not responding to warmth
You’re just unsure and need guidance
It’s always better to ask early than to regret waiting.
Final Thought
Caring for a one-week-old kitten is demanding—but every hour matters. They rely on you for everything: warmth, food, hygiene, and safety. It’s not glamorous, and it’s not always easy, but it is deeply rewarding. Each feeding, each purr, each tiny weight gain is a step closer to life.
You don’t need to be a vet or rescue expert to do it right. Just be consistent, be gentle, and get help when needed. You’re not alone in this. And neither is the kitten.
