Guide on what to do when you find a kitten

Let Mother and Kittens Thrive Outside

If you encounter kittens outdoors, it's crucial to refrain from moving them indoors unless they're visibly sick or in danger. The mother cat is likely nearby, and separating kittens under about 8 weeks old from her can harm their well-being. The mother is their best caregiver, so observe from a distance to see if she returns. You can place a ring of flour around them to check for her footprints. If she comes back and the area is safe, leave them be until they are weaned. Provide essentials like food, water, and shelter away from each other to support the mother without disturbing her caregiving process.

Assessing the Health and Safety of Kittens

Quick Assessment

When assessing kittens found outdoors, minimize handling and conduct a visual assessment first. Here are key signs to watch for:

Cold:

Kittens unable to regulate body temperature may need assistance if they appear cold and alone.

Dirty:

Thin:

Noisy:

Sick/Hurt:

Full Assessment

Eyes:

Nose:

Mouth:

Ears:

Hair and Skin

Chest/Respiratory:

Heart:

Abdomen:

Limbs:

Stool and Urine:

Presence of dirt, feces, or urine crusts indicates lack of maternal care.

Kittens with sunken bellies or visible bones may not be getting enough nutrition.

Orphaned kittens cry loudly; however, silence upon return may mean the mother has returned.

Symptoms like eye or nose discharge, wounds, or sores indicate illness or injury.

Check for normal opening and signs of infection.

Cleanliness and signs of ear mites or infections.

Note any discharge color indicating health issues.

Assess gum color and moisture level; look for cleft palate or dental issues.

Inspect fur condition, skin abnormalities, and signs of parasites.

Monitor breathing and chest shape for abnormalities.

Assess heart rate.

Kittens become more playful, developing their fine motor skills.

Note any limping or abnormal limb conditions.

Check rectum, stool consistency, and urine color for health indicators.

The mother cat may be out searching for food or avoiding human presence. Monitor the kittens from a distance for several hours to see if she returns. It's important to stay at least 35 feet away or more. Avoid placing food near the kittens, as the mother intentionally hides her babies from food sources to prevent attracting other cats and larger predators. You may need to leave the area completely and return later (4-6 hours) to check on the kittens to ensure they are dry, resting peacefully, and appear nourished. Especially if the mother is feral, she is unlikely to return until she senses that humans have left the vicinity.

If you don't see the mother cat:

We will endeavor to arrange transportation to one of our foster homes or our facility. If possible, we may request your assistance with transport.

Transport Coordination:

Provide Safe Shelter:

Foster Care Option:

Make a secure online donation to support our rescue efforts. Your contributions help us provide essential care for kittens in need.

If you can provide temporary foster care, please inform us. We will guide you through the process and provide necessary supplies.

Reach Out to Dockery's Amazing Rescues:

Hydration and Feeding:

Emergency Situations:

Call or use our contact form to report the found kitten. Provide detailed information about the kitten’s condition and location. Please complete our pet surrender form.

If the kitten appears sick or injured and you can afford it, take it to the nearest vet immediately. Inform us so we can arrange care or help you find resources.

For kittens around 4 weeks old, you can offer a small amount of wet kitten food or KMR. Ensure proper feeding posture; the kitten’s feet should be toward the floor with the bottle positioned over their head.

Keep the Kitten Warm

Avoid Cow’s Milk

Use a blanket or towel to provide warmth, especially for young kittens.

Cow’s milk can be harmful; young kittens require kitten milk replacement (KMR).

Step 1: Initial Care

Step 2: Contact Us

Step 3: Temporary Care

Step 4: Next Steps

Very young orphan kittens need constant care, including bottle feeding, and their situation is quite delicate. Most animal shelters lack specialized programs for caring for unweaned kittens, which can put their lives at risk. If you come across kittens that are in danger or are not well, and you are unable to foster or adopt them yourself, please reach out to us or another rescue organization instead of taking them to an animal shelter. If you're considering fostering or adopting but need assistance, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to help ensure your new furry friend gets the best possible start in life.

Please Consider Alternatives to Animal Shelters for Young Kittens

If the kitten is not in a safe environment, unhealthy or is weaned please follow these steps:

Your Role in Rescue

Your swift action and care can significantly impact a kitten’s life. By following these steps and reaching out to us, you are ensuring the best possible start for the kitten.

Pet Surrender Form