By Mark Menze
It’s that time of year again – kitten season!
Tiny kittens are beginning to arrive at Animal Aid, and many might be found out in the community needing a helping hand.
If you stumble upon a litter of kittens, there are a few important steps to follow to give these little ones the best chance of thriving.
Check for Mum
Kittens do best when cared for by their mother.
If you find a litter, step back and observe from a distance to see if she’s nearby.
She may be out hunting or avoiding the area because she senses you nearby.
Cats are naturally cautious, so monitor the area for a few hours to see if she returns.
Protect the Kittens
If the mother doesn’t come back, ensure the kittens are safe from immediate dangers like predators or extreme weather.
Very young kittens are especially vulnerable to the cold, heat, and dehydration, and they can’t go long without their mum’s care.
Older kittens can go a bit longer, so take your time to assess the situation.
Call Ahead and Bring Them to Safety
If the mother is still absent after a few hours, it’s essential to get the kittens to a safe place.
Contact Animal Aid or your local vet to coordinate next steps, and please call ahead if possible.
They’ll receive the care, warmth, and nourishment they need until they’re ready for new homes.
Handle Mum with Care
If you find the mother cat and plan to bring her and the kittens to a vet or shelter, act with caution.
Cat bites and scratches can quickly lead to infection, so keeping her calm is important.
Ensure she is in a secure carrier, as cats—especially anxious or active ones—can easily escape during transport.
With your care, these tiny lives have a chance to thrive.
By giving them a safe start, we can all help vulnerable animals find their forever homes.
