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My newborn kitten's cord is on. How do I care for it properly?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | British Shorthair | Male | unneutered

I’m hand rearing a newborn kitten I think he was born Thursday Friday time as his cord is still on his belly I just need another advice on what to do. I’ve had him since Saturday n he seems to be doing well he’s getting his milk through a bottle and he’s pooping and weeing regular it’s just i don’t know if I’m doing everything right that’s all and I’d rather be safe then sorry

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on October 3rd, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Tiger is adorable!

Can you post a picture of the chord? If it is long I would use a piece of thread to tie it off 1/2 cm from his belly and trim the excess off. The small stump will dry up and fall off. He should be kept warm with a heating pad on low and have the ability to roll off the heating pad if he wants until 3 weeks of age. He should be fed every 2-3 hours until 3 weeks of age. After every feeding he needs to be stimulated to urinate and defecate by gently rubbing his anus and genitals with a soft wet with warm water towel. Kitten formula can cause constipation. If that develops try mixing 2 different brands of formula together and adding extra water. I do recommend early weaning in bottle fed kittens due to the GI issues with formula. So around 3-4 weeks start canned kitten food mixed with the formula.

Good luck!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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