
Don’t be a “kit-napper”! Taking kittens from their mothers can have detrimental effects. Follow these steps to make sure that you are being the best advocate for any kittens you may find!
- Do not assume all kittens are abandoned.
- Most of the time, mom is nearby and is an active caregiver for her babies.
- Do not remove kittens without mom!
- If the kittens are alert, warm, dry, and reactive, mom is likely nearby!
- Unless sick or injured, leaving the kittens for mom to raise is best.
- Many kittens cannot survive once they are taken away from their mother.
- Mom will just get pregnant again!
- Wait at least 24 hours to see if mom returns before assuming the kittens are abandoned.
- Always try to trap mom as well.
- A momma cat will leave her babies to look for food, or if she thinks predators are nearby (that’s you!)
- Attempt to catch the mother and TNR her at participating veterinarian clinics OR bring babies AND their mom to your local rescue.
- If the mother does not come back, bring the babies in.
- Bring the kittens inside and keep them warm and offer appropriate food.
- Kittens cannot regulate their own body temperature and rely on their mother for warmth.
- DO NOT give a kitten cow's milk, alternative nut milks, or adult cat milk supplements. Only KMR (Kitten Milk Replacer) and pate wet food are appropriate to offer.
- Kittens that are very young will not be able to digest solid food
- Contact your local rescue group ASAP.
- Kittens are fragile and take a lot of time, attention, and appropriate care. Even in trained hands, we can't save them all.
- These people are trained in raising little ones and can give them a great chance at growing into healthy cats!
- If you wait too long and they get weaker or sicker, it may be too late for the rescue to bring them back.
- No-kill shelters may have a wait list due to being limited on space and foster availability, so reaching out ASAP so they can make a plan is always best!