Why a Feeding Syringe for Hand-Rearing
Newborn puppies, kittens, and small animals like hedgehogs may need supplemental feeding when the mother is unavailable, underweight, or unable to nurse. A milk replacer feeding syringe is a simple tool that helps you deliver milk replacer directly to the animal's mouth, giving you control over the flow and amount.
The Beaphar Lactol Feeding Syringes are designed specifically for this purpose. They come in a pack of two 12 ml syringes — one with a blunt tip and one with a tapered tip — so you can choose the best option for the animal you are feeding.
What the Syringe Pack Includes
- Lactol Milk Replacer Feeding Syringes for Kittens, Puppies & Small Animals, 2 syringes: Contains two 12ml syringes, one with a blunt tip and one with a tapered tip. The two tip shapes let you match the syringe to the animal's mouth size and feeding style. The blunt tip is gentler for very small mouths, while the tapered tip may be easier to position for slightly larger animals.
Lactol Milk Replacer Feeding Syringes for Kittens, Puppies & Small Animals, 2 syringes
How to Use the Feeding Syringe
Before you begin, make sure you have the milk replacer prepared according to its instructions. The syringes are compatible with any animal milk replacer, including Beaphar Lactol formulas.
- Choose the right tip: For very small newborns (kittens, small puppies, hedgehogs), start with the blunt tip — it is less likely to cause discomfort. For slightly larger puppies or small animals, the tapered tip may allow a more natural latch.
- Fill the syringe: Draw the prepared milk replacer into the syringe. Tap the barrel gently to remove air bubbles, then push the plunger slightly until a drop appears at the tip.
- Position the animal: Hold the puppy or kitten in a natural, upright feeding position — never on its back, as this can cause aspiration. Support the head gently.
- Introduce the tip: Place the tip at the side of the mouth, not directly down the throat. Let the animal take the milk at its own pace. Do not force the plunger; allow the animal to suckle or lap.
- Feed slowly and pause: Give small amounts at a time. Watch for signs of coughing or milk coming from the nose — these indicate the animal is getting milk too fast. Stop and reposition if needed.
- Clean after each use: Rinse the syringe with warm water immediately after feeding. Wash with mild soap and a bottle brush, then sterilize according to your usual method for feeding equipment.
Which Animals Can Use This Syringe
The Beaphar Lactol Feeding Syringes are suitable for newborn kittens, puppies, guinea pigs, rabbits, hedgehogs, and other small animals. They are designed for hand-rearing orphaned, underweight, or abandoned young animals, and can be used with any milk replacer.
What the Product Record Does Not Confirm
The supplied information does not include specific feeding volumes, frequency, or temperature for the milk replacer. These details depend on the species, age, and weight of the animal, and should come from your veterinarian or the milk replacer manufacturer's instructions. Always consult a professional for a feeding schedule tailored to your pet.
