What temperature is safe for newborn kittens?
Written by
Victoria Hayes
Reviewed by
Prof. Edward Clarke, Ph.D.Keeping temperature consistent and carefully controlled throughout this period is crucial for kittens, especially during the first two weeks of life. They cannot control their own body heat, so additional heat is vital. Without heat, a newborn kitten's body temperature can drop dangerously low within minutes. Hypothermia is often fatal to sickly kittens.
0-2 Weeks
- Temperature: Maintain 85-90°F (29-32°C) constant ambient temperature
- Heating Pad: Place under half the nesting box only
- Barrier: Use 2-3 towel layers between pad and kittens
- Monitoring: Check temperature hourly with infrared thermometer
3-4 Weeks
- Temperature: Reduce to 80°F (27°C) as mobility increases
- Equipment: Switch to low-setting heating pads or heat lamps
- Zones: Create warm and cooler areas in nesting space
- Safety: Ensure kittens can crawl away from heat sources
5-8 Weeks
- Temperature: Lower to 75-80°F (24-27°C) range
- Methods: Use heated beds or microwavable heat discs
- Transition: Begin turning off heat during daytime hours
- Observation: Watch for shivering or lethargy indicating cold stress
Nesting area setup: Avoid burns as well as the nest area becoming too cold, heat pads should only go under one side of the container, making "hot" and "cold" ends. This also needs to be monitored by digital thermometers on each end, to see how much difference there is. I've found a ceramic heat emitter works best when trying to maintain temperature in this area without giving the chance of burns.
Development of Thermoregulation. Three weeks. Kittens begin to venture out of the nest and will move to warmer areas and away from cooler areas within reach. Five weeks. They will now hold their body heat more effectively. Please provide them with warm sleeping areas until they are approximately nine weeks old, as they may struggle with normal room temperature levels until their insulating coat has fully developed.
In emergencies, treat hot water bottles with special care. Wrap them in thick towels for a time. Slip kittens inside your clothing as warmers. Never risk a flame or an unguarded electric bulb. These devices saved many a litter in my charge during winter storms.
A sure sign of trouble is a kitten in a pile and not moving, called a danger sign. Her gums will turn pale or white and be cold to the touch. She should be warmed immediately, but do so carefully. Rest her chilled little body against your skin under your clothes, then call your vet.
Read the full article: Kitten Developmental Milestones Explained Simply
