🐾 Found Newborn Kittens? Read This First.
Every spring and summer, kindhearted people discover tiny newborn kittens tucked under decks, in flower beds, inside sheds, or near businesses. Your first instinct may be to scoop them up immediately.
But here’s the truth:
The best way to help newborn kittens is often to leave them alone — at least at first.
Knowing when to wait and when to act can mean the difference between life and death.
First: Are They Truly Abandoned?
Mother cats frequently leave their babies alone while they search for food. She may be gone for several hours — especially if she feels unsafe.
If the kittens are:
Warm and quiet
Nestled together
Clean
Not visibly injured
👉 Mom is likely nearby.
Even if you don’t see her, she may be watching from a distance, waiting for you to leave.
What To Do Instead
If kittens appear safe:
Do not move them.
Keep pets and people away.
Observe from a distance (ideally inside your home or vehicle).
Give mom 4–6 hours to return (sometimes overnight is okay if weather is mild).
Mom’s milk is their best chance at survival. Human intervention too soon often decreases that chance.
When You Should Step In
There are times kittens need help immediately.
Contact Warrensburg Cat Advocates if:
The kittens are cold, wet, or crying continuously
You find a deceased mother nearby
They are visibly injured
They are covered in ants or parasites
Mom has not returned after extended observation
They are in immediate danger (construction, traffic, flooding, etc.)
If you're unsure, reach out before moving them. We can help you assess the situation and guide you step-by-step.
Why This Matters
Removing kittens too soon:
Prevents them from receiving vital antibodies
Requires intensive bottle feeding every 2–3 hours
Reduces survival rates
Increases strain on already limited rescue resources
Leaving kittens with mom (when safe) allows:
Natural nursing and social development
Higher survival rates
The opportunity for Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) once they’re old enough
And that’s how we break the cycle — humanely and responsibly.
How Warrensburg Cat Advocates Can Help
Warrensburg Cat Advocates provides:
Neonatal rescue support
TNR services
Guidance for finders
Foster placement when necessary
Education to prevent future litters
We are here to support both the kittens and the community.
What To Do Right Now
If you find newborn kittens:
Pause.
Observe.
Take photos.
Message or call Warrensburg Cat Advocates before moving them.
Sometimes the most compassionate action is patience.
And when intervention is needed — we’re ready.