Unfortunately, orphaned kittens less than 4 weeks old cannot live without their mother, and must be bottle fed around the clock in order to survive. Thankfully, most discoveries of newborn kittens do not call for human assistance, and in fact, leaving Mom and her family alone is generally the best thing you can do.

What percentage of orphaned kittens survive?

There is no gentle way to put this: During the first weeks of their lives, kittens are at an increased risk of dying. Some estimates put the survival rates of newborn kittens at an average of 75 percent, and as every experienced rescuer knows, sometimes entire litters simply don't make it.

How do you keep orphaned kittens alive?

Kittens should be kept in a box or cat carrier in a warm, draft-free place, completely isolated from other animals. Keep the container covered with a towel or blanket; a small towel or cloth inside the carrier will also keep them cozy. Change the bedding of their “nest” daily, since kittens tend to have accidents!