Found Kittens — What To Do

We get asked all the time what to do when you find a kitten or kittens.

Finding kittens can be exciting, but it can also be confusing. Your first instinct may be to immediately pick them up and bring them inside, but the best next step depends on the kittens' age, condition, and whether their mother may still be caring for them.

This information is designed to help you understand the first steps when you find kittens. Every situation is different, and you should always defer to your veterinarian when medical concerns are involved.

Before You Take Kittens In

If kittens appear healthy and are in a safe location, take some time to observe before removing them. A mother cat may be nearby searching for food and may return to care for them.

Young kittens have the best chance of survival when they receive proper care, whether that means staying with their mother or receiving appropriate human assistance when needed.

Before deciding what to do next, consider:

• Are the kittens warm, clean, and alert?
• Do they appear injured, sick, or in immediate danger?
• Have you seen an adult cat returning to the area?
• How old do the kittens appear to be?

The charts below can help you estimate a kitten's age and understand what care they may need.

Understanding a Kitten's Age

Knowing a kitten's approximate age helps determine what kind of care they need. Feeding, warmth, socialization, and medical needs can change significantly depending on their stage of development.

Use the charts below as a helpful guide when evaluating kittens you have found.

Found Kitten Care Guide

How Old Is This Kitten?

If you are unsure about a kitten's age, health, or needs, contact a veterinarian for guidance.

Feeding & Caring for Found Kittens

Young kittens have very specific nutritional and care requirements. Their needs are different from adult cats, and providing the correct food and environment is critical for their health and development.

Important Feeding Information

Do not give kittens human milk or cow's milk.

Cats require specific nutrition designed for their species. Human milk and other milk products can cause digestive problems and may make kittens sick.

Depending on the kitten's age and development stage, they may need:

• Kitten Milk Replacer (KMR): For kittens that are too young to eat solid food.
• Soft kitten food: For kittens beginning the transition to eating on their own.
• Dry kitten food: For kittens that are old enough to eat solid food.

Where To Find Kitten Supplies

Kitten supplies such as KMR, kitten food, bottles, and other care items are available at many pet supply stores and online retailers, including:

• Petco
• PetSmart
• Pet Supermarket
• Walmart
• Amazon

When Kittens Need Help Immediately

Contact a veterinarian if kittens appear:

• Cold, weak, or unable to eat
• Injured or having difficulty breathing
• Extremely small and without a mother present
• Showing signs of illness

Proper care during the earliest stages of life can make a tremendous difference in a kitten's chance of survival.

Helpful Kitten Care Resources

The resources below provide additional information about caring for kittens, understanding kitten development, and helping kittens get the best possible start in life.

Additional Resources

• Petco New Kitten Guide
• Orange County Animal Services Kitten Season Information
• Kitten Lady — Neonatal Kitten Care Information

Thank You for Helping Kittens

Taking the time to learn before acting can make a life-changing difference for a kitten. Thank you for caring about vulnerable cats and helping them get the chance they deserve.