What to Do if You Find Kittens?
There are several factors to consider before taking action if you find kittens outside. This is the CASA approach by the Kitten Lady:
CASA poster from the Kitty Lady
OR
Watch her video for more information
Fostering Kittens 0 - 4 wks
Kittens 0 - 4 wks should stay with the momma cat. Having her to feed & care for them is their best chance at survival. Most of the time, she isn't far away. Every effort should be made to reunite them with her. This means leaving the kittens where they are + waiting, continuing to check back later for her presence. If you absolutely must remove them because they are abandoned or at risk for harm- you will need the following items:
1.) A heat source- kittens this young can't regulate their body temperature & you will need a heating pad (set on low). You can also use a sock with rice placed in the microwave & cover them with soft blankets.
2.) A milk specifically made for kittens & a miracle nipple (or similar generic) syringe kit, then graduate to weaning food.
3.) A warm soft cloth to clean their face after feeding & soft tissue wipe their genitals to stimulate them to go.
4.) A digital scale to track daily growing progress in grams. 453 grams = 1 lb, 907+ grams = 2 lbs & safe to schedule for spay/neuter.
Feeding Guide & Video for Bottle Baby Kittens 0 - 4 wks
Feeding & growth chart in grams by the Kitten Lady
OR
How to Foster & Socialize Feral Kittens 5 wks +
If you see feral kittens running & playing outside in your neighborhood & they appear to be 5 - 8 wks old, you can learn how to trap them by watching the videos posted under the next section and foster & socialize them for adoption. After you have the kittens inside your home- you will need to:
1.) Keep the kittens in a small space- this way you have access to them & they will be forced to interact. This also keeps them from running away.
2.) Use food as motivation & reward- for the kittens to associate positive things from their new experiences with you- to learn to trust humans.
3.) Introduce physical touch & petting, then introduce play. The kittens will learn your hands are safe & the source of cuddles + entertainment.
The easiest window for socialization for feral kittens is 5 - 8 wks old.
Older feral kittens up to 12 wks can also be socialized, as shown in the video below. However, this can be more challenging. Patience & open expectations will be needed.
These older feral kittens can also be spay/neutered through TNR & remain with their outside cat family. Feral kittens 4 months+ old are not good candidates for socialization but should be spay/neutered quickly- as the females can get pregnant.
Videos & Guides on Kitten Socialization & Development
Watch the Kitten Lady turn a spicy kitten sweet
&
See her other educational videos for learning + support
See Alley Cat Allies guide on kitten socialization
If you'd like to help foster our adorable rescue kittens- please email: purrsofjoy@outlook.com