Did you know spring kicks off a phenomenon known as kitten season? As the warmer weather comes our way so do litters of kittens. You may see them in your neighborhood, or even your yard, and it can become overwhelming for shelters as they get an influx of cat and kitten admissions.
What Is Kitten Season?
Kitten season happens from March through October. On average, a cat can have anywhere from 4-8 kittens per pregnancy and can be pregnant several times per year. This increase in kitten births is what we call ‘kitten season’.
What can I do to help?
The easiest way to help reduce the overwhelming numbers of unwanted cats is to spay and neuter your own cat and encourage others to do the same. Mating just once can start a domino effect that can result in dozens, even hundreds or thousands of unwanted animals.
You can also help local shelter by donating kitten supplies such as milk replacer, bedding, and kitten food.
What do I do if I found a kitten?
Per Alley Cat Allies, even if you see kittens alone, it is more than likely their mother is nearby. She may be out looking for food, moving them to a new location, or taking a little break and stretching her legs. Kittens will be with their mothers until at least 8 weeks of age and need to nurse every few hours during this time.
The best thing to do is watch them for a few hours and see if the mother returns. If she doesn’t then you can decide on a plan of action. A mother cat is kittens’ best possible caregiver and is the best one to care for the babies.
You can help the mother by providing:
Regular food and water
A clean, warm shelter
Peace and quiet
Wondering if there is anything else you can do? You can learn more by visiting: alleycat.org/LeaveThemBe.
