Kitten Foster Care Manual

TAILS Kitten Foster Care Manual has information on preparing for, bringing home and caring for a foster cat to prepare him or her for a forever home.

Table of Contents

Section 1: Introduction
         Welcome & Overview

Section 2: Preparing for Your Foster Kittens
         Separation and Space
         Temperature and Comfort
         Kitten Proofing Your Home

Section 3: Bringing Home Your Foster Kittens
         Quarantine & First Arrivals
         Initial Observations
         First Feeding & Setup

Section 4: Moms and Kittens
         Setting Up the Space
         Feeding Mom
         Cleanliness and Litter Box
         Monitoring Health
         Handling Kittens
         Grooming & Bathing
         Vaccines

Section 5: Bottle Babies (0-3 weeks)
         Feeding Schedule
         Mix the Formula
         Prepare the Bottle
         Prepare the Kitten
         Stimulate Elimination

Section 6: Gruel Babies (3-5 weeks)
         Feeding Schedule
         Mix the Gruel
         Teaching Kittens to Eat
         Litter Box Training

Section 7: Weaned Kittens (5-8 weeks)
         Feeding
         Socialization and Play
         Litter Box Habits

Section 8: Older Kittens (8-12 weeks)
         Feeding
         Litter Box Habits
         Socialization &Play
         Behavior & Training
         Health & Veterinary Care
         Preparing for Adoption

Section 9: Medical and emergency protocols
         Veterinary care
         Signs of illness and what to do next
         Common ailments in animals from shelters
         Criteria for emergencies

Section 10: Behavior support
         Positive reinforcement
         Managing fearful or hesitant cats

Section 1: Introduction

Thank you for your interest in fostering kittens for TAILS! By opening your home, you’re not only saving lives, you’re giving kittens the love, care, and individual attention they need to thrive.

Foster homes provide:

  • Daily care, feeding, and cleaning

  • Transportation to veterinary appointments and adoption events

  • Socialization and gentle handling to help kittens become confident, well-adjusted pets

  • Playtime and enrichment to support physical and mental development

Fostering can be challenging, but it is deeply rewarding. Every kitten you care for has a better chance of finding a loving, permanent home—because of you.

Important Note: Kittens are fragile, especially newborns and bottle-fed kittens. Despite best practices, some kittens may not survive. Understanding this helps fosterers prepare for difficult outcomes while providing the best care possible.

For answers to common questions about fostering, see our Frequently Asked Questions in the Cat Foster Manual.

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Section 2: Preparing for foster kittens

Proper preparation is key to keeping your foster kittens safe, healthy, and comfortable.

Separation and Space

  • Keep kittens separated from other pets for at least two weeks to reduce stress and prevent disease spread.

  • Use a small, secure area such as a spare room or bathroom.

  • Kittens and foster cats must always be indoor-only.

Temperature and Comfort

  • Kittens cannot regulate their body temperature until several weeks old. Keep their space warm and draft-free.

  • Kittens under 3 weeks old require a heat source (heating pad or Snugglesafe disk), set on low and covered with towels.

  • Kittens over 3 weeks old should have constant access to food, water, and a litter box.

  • Provide a secure sleeping area: a carrier (door removed) or box lined with blankets.

  • Keep newborns in a closed space with heat, only removing them for feeding.

Important Note: Newborn kittens have little to no immunity and are highly susceptible to illness. Minimize exposure to other animals and maintain a clean, controlled environment.

Kitten-Proofing Your Home

Kittens are curious and mobile—like toddlers exploring everything. Keep them safe by:

  • Removing small items that could be swallowed.

  • Hiding breakable items and covering electrical outlets.

  • Moving toxic plants and flowers out of reach.

  • Keeping toilets closed and blocking crawl spaces.

  • Placing litter boxes away from food and water.

  • Securing windows and doors leading outdoors.

Tip: Refer to the Cat Foster Manual’s full supply and home-prep checklist for additional guidance.

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Section 3: Bringing home your foster kittens

Bringing new kittens into your home can be exciting, but careful planning ensures a smooth and safe transition.

Quarantine & First Arrivals

  • When kittens first arrive, place them directly in their prepared foster space. Allow them to exit the carrier on their own—never force them out.

  • Kittens may hide at first; this is normal. Provide a “safe haven” with food, water, litter box, and a cozy bed.

  • Keep kittens separated from other pets for at least two weeks to reduce stress and prevent illness.

Observing Behavior and Adjusting

  • Sit quietly in the room and allow kittens to explore at their own pace. Talking softly or reading aloud helps them acclimate.

  • Offer treats by hand or toss them gently toward the kittens to encourage trust.

  • Check that kittens are eating, drinking, and using the litter box. If they are not adjusting after a few days, contact your foster coordinator.

Handling & Socialization

  • Short, gentle handling sessions help kittens become social and adoptable.

  • Wash your hands before handling kittens to reduce disease risk.

  • Supervise children and ensure they interact calmly and gently.

  • Keep kittens close to mom (if applicable) during handling.

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Section 4: Moms and Kittens

Fostering a mom cat with her kittens is a special experience. Your main goal is to support mom so she can care for her babies while monitoring their health and development.

Setting Up the Space

  • Choose a quiet, private area away from household activity, such as a spare bedroom or bathroom.

  • Make a comfortable bed using a basket, medium-height cardboard box, or large dog carrier lined with blankets or towels.

  • Ensure the bed is large enough for mom to stretch out and has edges high enough to prevent kittens from falling.

  • Keep the area warm, clean, and safe, and restrict access to other pets.

  • Mom may move her kittens around the space—this is natural protective behavior.

Step 1: Feeding Mom

  • Mom provides milk for her kittens, so her nutrition is crucial.

  • Feed mom ½ can of wet food at least 4 times daily, with dry food available at all times.

  • She will nurse kittens every 1–3 hours for the first 3 weeks.

  • Weaning begins at 4–5 weeks, when kittens can start transitioning to wet food.

Step 2: Cleanliness and Litter Box

  • Change nesting bedding daily, especially during the first few weeks.

  • Use soft, washable materials like towels or fleece. Layer towels to allow easy replacement of soiled layers.

  • Keep the bedding area dry and warm.

  • Mom should always have access to a clean litter box.

  • By 4 weeks, kittens may begin sand-scratching behavior, following mom to the litter box.

  • By 6 weeks, kittens should learn to eliminate independently.

Step 3: Monitoring Health

  • Track weight and overall health of kittens daily.

  • Check each mammary gland of mom for redness, hardness, or discharge.

  • Contact your foster coordinator immediately if signs of mammary infection appear.

  • Be ready to intervene if mom is not properly caring for her kittens.

Step 4: Handling Kittens

  • Kittens can be safely handled at any age.

  • Mom may be protective, but she will not reject kittens if handled gently.

  • Handling helps kittens become social and adoptable.

  • Always wash hands before handling kittens and be gentle.

  • Supervise children when interacting with kittens.

  • Keep kittens close to mom during handling.

Grooming & Bathing

  • Spot Cleaning: Use a baby or pet wipe, or warm damp cloth for small messes. Dry thoroughly.

  • Half Bath: 1–2 inches of warm water; bathe only messy areas with mild pet or baby shampoo. Rinse and dry completely.

  • Full Bath: Rarely needed. Avoid wetting the head (eyes, nose, ears). Full baths are not routine, as kittens or mom usually self-clean.

  • Rule of Thumb: Less is more—avoid over-bathing, which can dry skin or chill kittens.

Vaccines

  • Vaccines are typically administered at 12 weeks.

  • Vaccination protects kittens from major diseases and makes them eligible for adoption.

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Section 5: Bottle Babies (0-3 weeks)

Bottle babies are kittens who are too young to eat on their own. They require round-the-clock care, warmth, and careful feeding.

Feeding Schedule

  • Newborn (0–1 week): Every 2–3 hours, including overnight.

  • 2 weeks old: Every 4–6 hours.

  • 3 weeks old: Every 6–8 hours.

It is normal for kittens to be fussy or occasionally refuse a bottle.
If a kitten skips several meals or hasn’t eaten in 8 hours, contact your foster coordinator immediately.

Step 1: Mix the Formula

  • Use Kitten Milk Replacement (KMR), available at pet stores.

  • You may pre-mix up to 24 hours’ worth, refrigerate immediately, and discard after 24 hours.

  • Do not reheat leftover formula—bacteria can grow.

  • Standard ratio: 1 part formula to 2 parts water.

  • For the first few feedings, dilute to 1 part formula to 3 parts water to reduce digestive upset.

  • Opened powdered formula should also be stored in the refrigerator.

Step 2: Prepare the Bottle

  • Pour the required amount into a clean bottle.

  • Warm the bottle in hot water for a few minutes.

  • Test the temperature by placing a few drops on your inner wrist—slightly warmer than body temperature.

  • Check the nipple: formula should drip slowly, not stream.

Step 3: Prepare the Kitten

  • Ensure the kitten is warm before feeding. Feeding a cold kitten can cause serious health issues.

  • Ideal body temperature: 100–102°F. Warm using a heating pad wrapped in 2–3 layers of towels. Rotate and gently massage every 5 minutes.

  • Position: Always on their stomach, mimicking how they nurse from their mother. You may swaddle or place in your lap for comfort.

  • Allow front legs to be free for kneading, which aids digestion and muscle development.

Feeding Technique:

  • Let a drop of formula fall from the nipple.

  • Place the nipple in the kitten’s mouth at a 45° angle, gently moving it back and forth.

  • Do not squeeze the bottle; the kitten should suckle independently.

  • If the kitten struggles, stroke their back or forehead to stimulate nursing, or rub a tiny amount of Karo Syrup on the lips.

Aspiration Warning:

  • If formula enters the lungs (coughing or bubbles from the nose), gently pat the back or hold the kitten inverted (tail over head) to clear the airway.

Feeding Multiple Kittens:

  • Feed sequentially.

  • Use judgment: a well-fed kitten’s belly is round but not hard.

  • Smaller kittens may need more frequent feedings.

Burping:

  • Lay the kitten on their stomach (shoulder or lap) and gently pat the back until you hear a burp. Repeat as needed.

Step 4: Stimulate Elimination

Kittens under four weeks cannot urinate or defecate on their own.

  • Before and after feeding, gently rub the lower abdomen/genital area with a warm, damp paper towel or cotton ball.

  • Stimulate for about 60 seconds to ensure elimination.

  • This must be done every feeding.

Normal Stool:

  • Mustard-colored, soft consistency.

  • Solid stool will not form while on formula.

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Section 6: Gruel Babies (3-5 weeks)

Gruel babies are kittens transitioning from bottle feeding to solid food. They still require frequent care but are learning to eat independently.

Feeding Schedule

  • Feed every 4–6 hours.

  • Provide fresh water at all times.

Step 1: Mix the Gruel

Gruel is a pudding-like mixture of wet cat food, KMR, and water.

Ingredients & Ratio:

  • Wet food: 1–2 tablespoons to start

  • KMR formula: 1 part formula to 2 parts water

Instructions:

  1. Mix until smooth and pudding-like.

  2. Start with more KMR and less wet food, gradually increasing wet food over 1–2 weeks.

  3. Discard any leftover gruel after meals—do not save, as it can spoil.

Kittens are usually ready to start eating canned food around 3.5 weeks or when teeth begin to emerge.

Step 2: Teaching Kittens to Eat

  • Continue bottle feeding initially using a larger nipple opening to help kittens adjust to texture and taste.

  • Introduce gruel by offering a small amount on your finger, lips, or a spoon.

  • Encourage kittens to eat from a bowl when possible.

  • Supplement with a bottle every 8 hours until kittens reliably eat independently.

Important:

  • Avoid fish- or seafood-flavored foods—they are hard to digest and can cause diarrhea.

  • If a kitten refuses food, contact your foster coordinator for guidance.

Step 3: Litter Box Training

  • By 3–5 weeks, kittens should be urinating and defecating independently.

  • Provide a small litter box with non-clumping clay litter.

  • After each meal, place kittens in the litter box to encourage use.

  • If kittens don’t immediately use the litter box:

    • Place a used cotton swab or paper towel in the box to introduce familiar scents.

  • Scoop the litter box at least twice daily, more if needed.

  • A clean litter box promotes good long-term bathroom habits.

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Section 7: Weaned Kittens (5-8 weeks)

By 6–7 weeks, kittens should be eating independently and becoming more confident in their environment. This stage focuses on solid food intake, socialization, and developing life skills.

Feeding

  • Dry food: Available at all times for grazing.

  • Wet food: Serve three times daily (morning, afternoon, evening) to support growth.

  • Water: Always fresh and accessible.

At this stage, kittens should be fully weaned from bottles or formula.

Socialization and Play

Socialization is critical for developing friendly, confident kittens.

  • Expose kittens to different indoor experiences: new sights, sounds, textures, and people.

  • Keep experiences positive and gentle to build trust.

  • Playtime: Encourages exercise, confidence, and social bonding.

  • Toys: Don’t need to be expensive. Paper bags (handles removed), crumpled paper, or simple wand toys provide enrichment.

  • Safety: Never leave kittens unsupervised with toys or objects they could ingest or get tangled in.

Litter Box Habits

  • Kittens should now be reliably using the litter box.

  • Scoop at least twice daily to maintain hygiene and reinforce good habits.

  • Monitor for changes in elimination patterns, as these can indicate stress or health issues.

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Section 8: Older Kittens (8-12 weeks)

At 8–12 weeks, kittens are energetic, curious, and learning quickly. They are more independent but still need supervision, guidance, and socialization to prepare them for a forever home. This stage focuses on solid food intake, confidence-building, socialization, and preparation for adoption.

Feeding

  • Wet food: 3 times per day (morning, afternoon, evening).

  • Dry food: Available at all times for grazing.

  • Water: Always fresh and accessible.

  • Gradually reduce any supplemental formula; kittens should be fully weaned by this stage.

  • Monitor body condition and weight gain; these kittens are growing rapidly.

Litter Box Training

  • Kittens should now use the litter box consistently.

  • Scoop the box at least twice daily to maintain hygiene.

  • Consider adding a second litter box in multi-kitten households.

  • Observe for any signs of constipation, diarrhea, or avoidance, and contact the foster coordinator if problems persist.

Socialization & Play

  • Provide interactive play sessions at least 15–20 minutes, 2–3 times daily.

  • Encourage climbing, jumping, and exploration through cat trees, boxes, and safe obstacles.

  • Introduce novel objects (paper bags, tunnels, bubble wrap, paper towel rolls) to build confidence.

  • Expose kittens to a variety of household sounds gradually (vacuum, music, laundry) at low volume/distance first. Increase exposure as kittens relax.

  • Introduce new people, friends, or family members for gentle handling. Ensure visitors wash hands before and after handling.

  • If available, allow supervised exposure to a calm, cat-friendly dog through a gate or window.

  • Reinforce gentle handling and bite inhibition, especially as kittens learn how to use claws and teeth.

Working with Shy or Fearful Kittens

  • House shy kittens in smaller, controlled spaces with minimal hiding spots.

  • Avoid hard-to-access areas (under beds, behind furniture).

  • Provide easy-to-reach hiding areas with open cardboard boxes or small containers.

  • Handle shy kittens briefly but frequently throughout the day. Use a towel or blanket to safely pick them up (“burrito wrap”).

  • Pet gently on the nose, chin, or cheeks while holding for a few minutes; ignore hissing or growling.

  • Use toys, string, or treats to encourage voluntary interaction without forcing contact.

  • Gradually lure kittens closer with high-value treats (chicken baby food is safe; no onions).

Carrier Familiarization

  • Introduce the carrier as a safe, comfortable space rather than a confinement tool.

  • Leave the carrier open in the kitten’s room with a blanket or towel inside.

  • Place treats, toys, or food inside to encourage voluntary exploration.

  • Practice short carrier sessions, gently placing kittens inside for a few minutes, then letting them out.

  • Gradually increase carrier time and, if desired, take short supervised car rides to reduce travel stress.

Behavior & Training

  • Encourage positive behaviors with toys, treats, and praise.

  • Teach basic habits: appropriate scratching, gentle play with humans, and not climbing on unsafe surfaces.

  • Monitor for play aggression or fearfulness and address with redirection, structured play, and patience.

Health & Veterinary Care

  • Kittens typically receive core vaccinations at 8 and 12 weeks: FVRCP, FeLV (if indicated), and rabies (per protocol).

  • Ensure kittens are on flea, tick, and worm preventatives as instructed by the foster coordinator.

  • Continue daily health checks: monitor appetite, activity, litter habits, eyes, ears, and coat condition.

  • Report any signs of illness immediately (vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, sneezing, or nasal/eye discharge).

Preparing for Adoption

  • At this age, kittens should be comfortable with gentle handling, carrier travel, and short car rides.

  • Encourage play with other kittens or friendly cats to strengthen social skills.

  • Begin observing individual personalities to help match kittens with appropriate adoptive homes.

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Section 9: Medical and emergency protocols

Foster kittens, like adult cats, require careful monitoring of their health to ensure they grow up healthy and adoptable. Many of the same medical guidelines for adult cats apply, but kittens have additional needs due to their age and developing immune systems.

Key Points for Kittens:

  • Daily Health Checks: Observe appetite, activity level, litter box habits, eyes, ears, and coat condition. Record any changes.

  • Vaccinations: Kittens typically receive core vaccinations at 8 and 12 weeks, including FVRCP, FeLV (if indicated), and rabies per TAILS protocol.

  • Parasite Prevention: Flea, tick, and worm preventatives must be administered according to age and weight instructions from your foster coordinator.

  • Signs of Illness: Monitor for vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite, sneezing, nasal or eye discharge, or unusual behavior. Any concerns should be reported to your foster coordinator immediately.

  • Emergency Situations: Life-threatening emergencies (e.g., difficulty breathing, severe trauma, unconsciousness) require immediate veterinary attention. For non-emergency medical issues, always contact your foster coordinator before seeking treatment.

Additional Resources:
For a full overview of medical care, emergency protocols, medications, and criteria for emergencies, please refer to the Cat Foster Manual: Medical and Emergency Protocols. This includes step-by-step guidance on what to do, when to contact your coordinator, and how to safely manage kitten-specific medical needs.

Important Note:
Because kittens have weaker immune systems than adults, always minimize exposure to other animals until they are fully vaccinated, and follow all hygiene practices (hand washing, separate litter boxes and feeding utensils).

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Section 10: Behavior support

Fostering kittens gives you the opportunity to help them develop into confident, well-adjusted cats. At this stage, behavior support focuses on positive interactions, gentle guidance, and building foundational social skills.

Positive Reinforcement

  • Reward desirable behaviors such as using the litter box, gentle play, and approaching people with treats, praise, or petting.

  • Always use rewards immediately so kittens make the connection between the behavior and the positive outcome.

Play and Bite/Claw Inhibition

  • Kittens explore the world with their mouths and claws. Use toys (wand toys, balls, crumpled paper) instead of your hands for interactive play.

  • If a kitten bites or scratches during play, gently stop interaction and redirect to a toy. Consistent redirection teaches limits without punishment.

Socialization and Gentle Handling

  • Handle kittens for short, frequent sessions every day. Include petting, lifting, and brushing.

  • Supervise children to ensure interactions remain calm and gentle.

  • Expose kittens to new people, safe household sounds, and gentle introduction to other pets (under supervision).

Litter Box and Routine Habits

  • Reinforce consistent litter box use by keeping boxes clean, accessible, and placed in quiet areas.

  • Encourage independence gradually as kittens transition from gruel/bottle to solid food.

Managing Fear or Shyness

  • Provide secure hiding spots and small spaces for shy kittens.

  • Approach slowly and reward bravery with treats or gentle play.

  • Avoid forcing interaction; patience and consistent exposure build confidence.

Next Steps

  • Most kitten behaviors will evolve as they grow, but early intervention makes them easier to guide.

  • For advanced behavioral concerns, techniques for older cats, or complex situations, refer to the Cat Foster Manual: Behavior Support.

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