Finding a suitable substitute for queen's milk can be difficult. Cow's milk is not an appropriate substitute for queen's milk, as it doesn't contain the right balance of nutrition, or an appropriate number of calories. It lacks some of the essential nutrients kittens require, and they simply cannot consume enough in their small stomachs to receive appropriate nutrition. Recipes for homemade milk replacers for kittens as well as commercial kitten milk replacers are available. These milk replacers contain formulas that closely match queens’ milk during the very important early days and weeks of a kitten’s life when protein and other important nutrients are so vital. Check with your veterinarian to get advise on the best one to use. Be sure to refrigerate any unused portions and don't prepare any more than can be used within 24 hours.
Under the circumstances when the queen is not available, it is best to wean these young kittens as early as possible. Feeding them Purina Kitten Chow brand kitten food moistened with warm water will provide the right balance of nutrients they need to grow. Kittens can begin to eat solid food moistened with water at three to four weeks of age. Mix one part water with three parts Kitten Chow. Change this mixture frequently to ensure freshness. For very young kittens, it may be helpful to grind the Kitten Chow in a blender or food processor to ensure a smooth texture. Both Kitten Chow and milk replacers will contain the important nutrients the very young kitten requires. The only difference between the sources of nutrients would be the form delivered. Milk replacers usually come in a powder form (water to be added) or liquid form that is easier for the very young kitten to consume and digest. Kitten Chow would be more appropriate for a kitten that is over 4 weeks of age once the kitten has started to learn to lap up food and has baby teeth for minimal amounts of chewing (if the Kitten Chow is moistened thoroughly).
Source: http://www.catchow.com
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