Neonatal and Paediatric Animals: Essential Guide for Pet Owners
Whether you’re an animal lover, a pet parent, or simply someone with a soft spot for animals, at some point, you might find yourself caring for a neonatal or paediatric animal. This could range from a tiny kitten, puppy, or bird to larger animals like a lamb, calf, or even a foal. These fragile animals share some crucial early-life needs: the ability to breathe, stay warm, eat, and have functional “plumbing” (i.e., elimination systems). Addressing these essentials can make the difference between life and death in neonatal animals.
Veterinarian Dr Bennie Grobler from EberVet Pet Clinic offers expert advice on this topic. Dr Bennie highlights the following key principles, helping to ensure newborns receive the proper care for a healthy start in life.
Breathing: The First Essential Step
One of the first and most critical needs for newborn animals is the ability to breathe effectively. Hypoxia, or oxygen deprivation, is a significant risk if the birth is prolonged or difficult. This can also occur if the foetal membranes aren’t cleared quickly or there’s fluid obstructing the airway. Quick intervention is essential to clear these blockages and enable proper respiration. Oxygen deficiency can lead to metabolic acidosis—a condition where the blood becomes too acidic—making immediate action vital for survival.
The Danger of Hypothermia in Neonates
Neonatal animals are highly vulnerable to hypothermia because they cannot regulate their body temperature. After birth, they’re often wet and have minimal fat reserves, which serve as energy sources rather than insulation. Without warmth, their survival is at risk. For mammals, especially puppies and kittens, as well as young birds, maintaining an ambient temperature of 30 to 32°C during the first three weeks of life is crucial. Warming and drying them soon after birth can help avoid complications.
Feeding and Colostrum: Building Immunity and Energy
Once the newborn animal can breathe, is dry, and is warm, feeding becomes the priority. For mammals, the mother’s first milk, known as colostrum, is a powerhouse of nutrients essential for newborn survival. Colostrum delivers antibodies that protect the animal’s immune system until its first vaccination. It also rehydrates the young animal and addresses metabolic acidosis. Additionally, colostrum is packed with calories, which are critical because neonates have limited energy reserves and need continuous nourishment for growth.
The Importance of Elimination “Plumbing”
In the early weeks, neonates typically need help with elimination. Most young animals don’t urinate or defecate voluntarily until they’re around three weeks old. In natural conditions, the mother stimulates this process by licking the area near the perineum. When humans are involved in neonatal care, they can use a damp cotton ball to gently stimulate this region every four hours, assisting the young animal’s natural processes.
Recognising Warning Signs and Seeking Veterinary Support
A neonatal animal in distress may exhibit symptoms such as inactivity, vocalisation, or lack of weight gain. Regular veterinary check-ups are recommended to monitor their development and address any health concerns early. While each species has unique requirements, consulting a veterinarian for tailored advice is crucial for anyone who finds themselves caring for neonatal or paediatric animals.
Key Takeaways for Neonatal Care
When caring for young animals, always remember these four essential principles:
1. Breathing – ensure the newborn can breathe immediately after birth.
2. Warmth – maintain a stable body temperature for the neonate.
3. Nutrition – provide regular, nutrient-rich feedings (such as colostrum in mammals).
4. Elimination “Plumbing” – ensure the young animal’s elimination “plumbing” system is functioning properly with gentle stimulation if necessary.
Whether you’re faced with an abandoned kitten, a newborn puppy, or any other vulnerable neonatal animal, these foundational steps will help give them the best chance at life. For specific guidance, especially on hand-rearing young animals, consult your veterinarian. Dr Bennie Grobler and the team at EberVet Pet Clinic are here to offer expert advice on caring for your neonatal and paediatric pets, giving them the healthiest start possible.
