Finding Potentially "Orphaned" Kittens
Not all kittens need help, in fact, most don't. The best care for kittens is with their mother. Before you scoop up a kitten(s) you find outdoors, it is important to determine if they are truly orphans or if mom is in the process of moving her litter, hiding, or finding food nearby.
\Mom cats leave their kittens alone for extended periods of time. Moms also move their litters 2-4 times before weaning them and can only carry one kitten at a time. If you find one or two kittens, mom may be in the process of moving the family and will return for the others.
Leave food and water available for mom. Please leave the kittens alone unless they appear clearly injured or ill.
What To Do Next
View this guide to determine your next steps.
What If I Touched the Kittens?
Don't worry - mom cat will still recognize the kittens are her babies. It is advised to minimize handling of found kittens so as not to cause unnecessary stress. If you have handled the kittens, simply return the kittens for the mother to care for.
Remember, Please Respect the Mother Cat
Scooping up kittens to take to a recue or shelter is not in the best interest of the kittens. Observe the kittens from a distance over the course of a few hours to see if mom returns.