Day Ten Of mice and men

Of mice and men??? Wellllll, men's FEET that is!!! Today was fun time with feeties, toes and heels. Our playful, happy girls were having a ball with Daddy's toes and heels. Since this blog is informational as well as a gift to whomever adopts these special girls, we wish to share some really great information for those who might be considering doing the same as we did and saving a wild kitty. First off, get a good friend who is a kitty expert and can walk you thru some things. Suzanne has been a lifesaver to us. She shared today the following information you might find helpful: They are older than you originally thought. I quote the Cat Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook by Carlson and Giffin because it deals with all aspects of growth and hand raising orphans. Also you can look at it yourself at Petsmart or a bookstore because it is a popular classic. Average weights (page 330) 1 week 4oz., 2 weeks 7 oz., 3 weeks 10 oz., 4 weeks l3 oz. etc. We must assume your kittens were below average because they were starving and dehydrated. Swabbing the anal and genital area with cotton or tissue and warm water. Three weeks (page 328). Dr. Carlson is low on this one. Very few kittens have the ability to voluntarily release poop and urine at 3 weeks. It comes some time during the following week, and every kitten is different. I expect to see some voluntary action by about 24 days. At first it happens in the bedding. Within a few days kitty will make it to the box. Like toilet training a child only better. They have to learn to feel it coming. Telling age by teeth (page 171) Incisors (the tiny front ones) 2-3 weeks, canines 3-4 weeks, premolars 3-6 weeks (usually about 5). Weaning (page 340) about 25 days. Personally, I think malnourished kittens like these should receive KMR as long as they want it, but by 25 days they should be eating solid food as well. It is so helpful to have someone who can reassure you that you are doing the right things. We are so lucky to have someone like her in our corner.