As many of you know, I typically take neonatal foster kittens ranging from 0-4 weeks of age. When these cuties came into the shelter, however, I couldn't refuse them.
Riddled with fleas, dried ocular and nasal discharge, and suffering from severe upper respiratory infections, the orange kittens had a rough start to life. In these cases, what kittens need most is time. With the correct medications, thermal support and lots of love, kittens like this can make a miraculous recovery. Sparks (not pictured here), Marlin (far right), Ash (far left), and Phoenix (middle) were rescued by the Orphaned Kitten Project and remained in foster care with me. They received both anti-bacterial and anti-viral medications, in addition to a medicated eye ointment. They were given oral deworming medication, flea control, and several medicated baths to treat their flea anemia. See Phoenix's story for details about her hospitalization, and incredible recovery. After almost 6 weeks in foster care, these sweet kids are ready for adoption.
Shelters and rescue organizations depend on foster homes for cases like this. Sick kittens are at high risk in shelter environments because of disease transmission, the risk of reinfection, and the lack of 'round the clock care. With enough time, and love, they can make a full recovery.
Foster Pro Tip: kittens that have been weaned are still at risk for weight loss and starvation if they have an upper respiratory infection, as the discharge can impair their sense of smell. When caring for URI kittens it is important to monitor their appetite, and weight gain. If your kittens are struggling to eat, they may require hand feeding assistance until their medical condition improves. With URI kittens, I hand feed for at least the first 24 hours or until I am positive the kittens are eating sufficiently on their own.
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