The importance of nutrition in newborns
What is normal in terms of temperature?
The normal body temperature of puppies and kittens during the first few weeks of life is around 95-96.8°F (35 - 36°C), which is lower than that of an adult. When they go below this temperature they are hypothermic, which has a direct impact on their ability to digest. Taking the body temperature is the very first thing you should do when caring for puppies and kittens.
How to monitor their health?
Healthy puppies and kittens must gain weight on a daily basis, which is why the first parameter to monitor is their weight. However, they should not gain too much weight either. Measuring the weight of puppies and kittens will enable you to draw a growth curve and ensure that their growth rate is appropriate.
What are the key considerations?
During the first 3 weeks, there are 2 key elements to consider:
1. The environment: it is essential to ensure temperature and humidity are controlled.
2. Nutrition: in puppies, energy and immunity supplementation are key. It is therefore always good to have a canine or feline milk replacer at disposal if needed. Recent studies have also shown the value of using a milk replacer supplemented with immunoglobulin Y (Ig Y), chicken immunoglobulins directed against E coli, the number one infectious cause of neonatal mortality in puppies and canine parvovirus, the number one infectious cause of pediatric mortality in puppies as well.
You may also be interested in watching the following videos:
Milk replacers for veterinarians
The duration of the growth period
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