Reader Question: Diarrhea in 6-Week-Old Feral Kittens – Possible Causes & At-Home Care Options

by Carolyn
(Jacksonville Florida )

Reader's Question:

This is regarding a feral kitten from my backyard. I can’t take him to the vet. He’s almost 6 weeks old with diarrhea. I’m giving him KMR 2. Actually I have 2, same problem. I need something OTC. Thanks

Helping Young Kittens with Diarrhea When Veterinary Care Isn't Available

Carolyn, thank you for your compassion in caring for these young feral kittens. Diarrhea is common in kittens this age, especially in those recently rescued or born outside. It’s a sign that something is irritating their digestive system—but the good news is, with prompt supportive care, many kittens improve quickly.

Possible Causes of Diarrhea in 6-Week-Old Kittens:

• Diet Transition or Intolerance: Even though you’re feeding KMR (Kitten Milk Replacer), some kittens have trouble digesting it, especially if it's mixed too strongly or if they’re transitioning to solid food too soon.
• Parasites: Intestinal worms, coccidia, and giardia are extremely common in feral kittens and are a leading cause of diarrhea.
• Stress and Environmental Change: Being brought inside and handled can be stressful and may cause temporary digestive upset.
• Viral or Bacterial Infections: These are possible, but less likely if the kittens are otherwise active, alert, and feeding well.

What You Can Do at Home (Over-the-Counter Options):

• Ensure Proper Mixing of KMR: Always mix according to the label—using too much powder can lead to diarrhea. If you're using KMR 2 (liquid), make sure it's fresh and properly stored.
• Hydration is Critical: Diarrhea can cause dehydration quickly in kittens. Offer small amounts of plain, unflavored Pedialyte mixed 1:1 with water in place of one or two feedings daily to help with hydration and electrolytes.
• Use
  a Probiotic: You can give an OTC probiotic supplement like FortiFlora (from pet stores or online), or mix a small pinch of plain, unflavored human probiotic powder (like Culturelle) into their formula once or twice a day.
• Deworming (if safe to do so): If the kittens are healthy and over 1.5 pounds, you can use an OTC dewormer such as pyrantel pamoate (often sold as Nemex-2). This treats roundworms and hookworms. Do not give any dewormer without reading the dosing instructions carefully or confirming with a vet if possible.
• Transition to Gruel: If they are starting to eat solid food, make a very soupy gruel using high-quality kitten food mixed with warm water or KMR to make it easier on their stomachs.
• Keep Warm: Chilling can worsen digestive issues. Ensure they are warm (around 85–90°F at this age if they are not snuggling together).

When to Seek Help, If Possible:

• If the diarrhea is watery and persistent for more than 48 hours, or the kittens become lethargic, weak, stop eating, or show signs of bloating or vomiting—these can be signs of serious dehydration or infection and require emergency vet care.
• If they are not gaining weight daily (a normal, healthy kitten should gain about 10–15 grams per day), they need more intensive care.

You're doing something truly kind by giving these kittens a chance. Monitor their hydration, try the probiotic support and gentle dietary management, and deworm only if they are healthy enough for it. If any signs worsen, please try to seek low-cost vet help or a rescue organization in your area.

Please note: This information is intended to complement, not replace, the advice of your pet's veterinarian. Always consult a vet for professional medical advice about your pet's health.