Published On: April 6, 2021
It is very important to always follow the recommended mixing instructions when reconstituting milk replacer. One level scoop of powdered milk replacer should be measured and mixed with 2 scoops of hot (60°C) water, a ratio of 1:2 powder to water. A scoop is provided in both our KittenGro and PuppyGro pouches and is equal to one tablespoon or 14.8 cc.
Mixing Instructions
1. Clean and disinfect all feeding equipment and surfaces you will be using, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly
Neonates have very naïve immune systems. Severe infections can be introduced and spread when feeding, by bacterial contamination of nipples, bottles, and surroundings. Disinfecting ALL surfaces and using clean feeding equipment is critical to the maintenance of good health in newborns.
2. Boil water, allow time to cool
Boiling water will help kill any microorganisms that may be present in the water. Although tap water and bottled water sources are fairly safe with little risk of contamination, due to the naïve immune system of newborns it is an optional safety step especially if you are uncertain about the quality of your water source. Neonates at greater risk of contracting an infection are orphans or those that did not receive colostrum. Allow the boiled water to cool to approximately 60°C before reconstituting the formula.
3. Measure out two parts hot water (60°C)
The right temperature matters when reconstituting your pets milk replacer, when possible always use a thermometer. Using water that is too cold may prevent the powder from dissolving and the fat sources from melting (clumping). Using water that is too hot may cause the milk ingredients to curdle/clump or a sludgy sediment on feeding equipment. Clumped milk replacer can block the nipple increasing the strain on a newborn while suckling.
4. Measure out one part (level scoop) of powder
One scoop powder and two scoops water will result in approximately 35 mL of formula. Use our reference guide to calculate the total amount of milk replacer needed based on the age of your newborn. A scoop is provided in both our KittenGro and PuppyGro pouches and is equal to one tablespoon or 14.8 cc
5. Add powder to water and whisk for 30 seconds or until well incorporated
Slowly whisking the powder into the water until it is well incorporated will create a smooth texture. It is not recommended to shake or use a blender to mix the powder with water. Both can incorporate air into the formula or create bubbles that can give neonates gas when swallowed. Allowing the formula to sit while it cools to body temperature helps any remaining bubbles dissipate before feeding.
6. Transfer formula into bottle
Formula should be transferred into a clean bottle intended for feeding. Using a strainer during this step is strongly recommended to separate any clumps that may have formed. These clumps can then be broken up and reincorporated into the formula. If clumps are ingested and not broken up, the clumps may slow digestion or block the nipple.
7. Allow to cool to body temperature (38-40°C) before feeding
After mixing, the reconstituted milk replacer may still be quite hot. Allow time for the milk replacer to cool to body temperature (38-40°C) before feeding. The bottle can be cooled by running it under cold water or partially immersing in ice water. If a thermometer is not available, test the milk’s temperature on sensitive skin, such as the inner wrist, before offering to a newborn. It is very important not to feed formula that is too hot as it can scold or severely burn the newborns mouth and esophagus.