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Spring marks the beginning of kitten season, a time when thousands of stray and feral cats give birth to kittens in neighborhoods and cities worldwide. This influx of kittens overwhelms local animal shelters and rescue groups, making it crucial for individuals to take action to save these vulnerable lives. Adopting cats and kittens from shelters, supporting local rescue groups with time, money, or supplies, and participating in trap-neuter-return (TNR) programs are all effective ways to make a difference during kitten season.
However, what should you do if you come across a stray kitten or litter of kittens? It’s important not to rush them to a shelter immediately. Not all shelters have the necessary resources to care for kittens, especially feral ones. Instead, contacting a rescue group or shelter for guidance is recommended. If the kittens are under four weeks old, their chances of survival are better when left with their mother. Observing from a distance and waiting for the mother cat to return is essential, as she may have temporarily left to search for food or find a safer environment. It is key to ensure the kittens are safe from immediate threats and not in immediate danger.
If the kittens are in good condition and not crying, it is likely that the mother is nearby. On the other hand, if the kittens are dirty and crying, the mother may have abandoned them or be unable to return. In either case, seeking advice from a shelter or rescue group is crucial. Patience is crucial during this waiting period, as long as the kittens are warm and away from imminent threats, they can survive until their mother returns. In general, the mother should return within three to four hours if she does not sense any threats.
While observing and waiting for the mother cat to return, it is important to take care of her and the kittens. Kittens need their mother’s milk until they reach approximately four weeks of age, so leaving food out for the mother cat to eat is recommended. It is best to keep the kittens with their mother until they start eating solid food, typically around five to six weeks old. The mother’s milk provides essential antibodies that promote the kittens’ growth and overall health. Once the kittens transition to solid food, it is time to take action and capture or trap the mother and kittens, bringing them inside.
Keeping the mother and kittens separated from other cats until they can be checked by a veterinarian is vital. Ensuring that vaccinations and spaying or neutering are taken care of is crucial. Additionally, addressing any potential fleas or worms in the kittens is necessary for their well-being. Once the kittens are healthy and thriving, finding them loving homes should be the next step.
In situations where the mother cat does not return or is found deceased, immediate action is required. Contacting a veterinarian is recommended, as they can provide guidance on the necessary steps to ensure the kittens’ survival. Keeping the kittens warm is a priority, as they are more susceptible to hypothermia than starvation at a young age. Bottle-feeding them with kitten milk replacer every two to three hours is necessary if they are under four weeks old or not eating solid food. It is important to refrain from giving them cow’s milk and follow the instructions on the kitten milk replacement label precisely. Additionally, assisting with their bathroom needs is vital, as they cannot do so independently at a young age. Rubbing their under-tails with a warm washcloth helps stimulate urination and defecation.
In cases where individuals are unable to provide care for a mama cat or kittens, reaching out to local rescue groups and shelters is crucial. Gathering information about available resources, such as the capacity of local shelters or the possibility of foster care, can help find appropriate solutions. Utilizing social media, contacting neighbors, friends, and family, and reaching out to organizations like Alley Cat Allies for assistance are all ways to seek help.
In conclusion, spring marks the onset of kitten season, generating a surplus of stray and feral cats and kittens in neighborhoods and cities worldwide. Taking proactive steps such as adopting from shelters, supporting local rescue groups, and participating in TNR programs is essential. When encountering a stray kitten or litter, it is important to refrain from rushing them to a shelter immediately. Observing from a distance and waiting for the mother cat to return is recommended, as the kittens have better chances of survival with their mother until they are around four weeks old. Providing assistance to the mother and kittens, such as leaving food for the mother and ensuring their well-being, is vital. In cases where the mother cat does not return or cannot care for the kittens, reaching out to veterinarians for guidance on proper care becomes crucial. If unable to provide care personally, seeking help from local rescue groups, shelters, and relevant organizations can ensure the safety and well-being of the kittens.
FAQs:
1. What should I do if I find a stray kitten or litter of kittens?
– Contact a rescue group or shelter for guidance. Wait for the mother cat to return if the kittens are under four weeks old. If the mother does not return, seek assistance from a veterinarian.
2. Can I just take the kittens to a local shelter?
– Not all shelters are equipped to handle kittens, especially feral ones. Contact them beforehand to ensure they can provide the necessary care.
3. What if the mother cat does not return?
– If the mother cat does not return or is found deceased, contact a veterinarian for immediate guidance on caring for the kittens.
4. How can I help during kitten season?
– Adopt cats and kittens from shelters, support local rescue groups with time, money, or supplies, participate in trap-neuter-return programs, and educate others about the importance of spaying and neutering their pets.

Becca The Crazy Cats Lady is an experienced and knoweldgeable cat owner with years of experience caring for a multi-cat household. She curates, writes and shares cat content at https://CrazyCatsLady.com.