Kitten Care 101: Guidelines for Finding and Assisting Abandoned Kittens in North Dakota

As "kitten season" arrives in North Dakota, it's essential to be vigilant and informed to ensure the well-being of our feline friends. Please refrain from "kit-napping" kittens. The compassionate side of us all urges to assist animals in distress. However, before assuming kittens are abandoned, consult our checklist below to ascertain if human intervention is necessary.

Are they genuinely "abandoned"?

• If you encounter an apparent "dumping" of kittens in a box or bag, or spot 1-2 kittens wandering in an unexpected area, they require immediate assistance.
• Gather them up and transport them to a rescue or shelter without delay.
• If immediate sheltering is not possible and the kittens require urgent care, keep them warm with blankets indoors.
• If they seem hungry and are still babies (not weaned), feed them warmed kitten formula, not milk, as dairy products may upset their stomachs (we recommend the KMR brand).

Encountering a "kitten nest":

• Do not assume the mother has abandoned them; she may be out foraging for food or may have noticed your presence and is waiting for you to leave.
• Kittens with round bellies, soundly sleeping, are likely not abandoned.
• If the kittens are in a safe location, observe from a distance and check on them every 2 hours; you may find that the mother has returned.
• Do not disrupt the mother's caregiving efforts; allow her to hunt and nurse. You can provide a shelter near the nest with dry food and water, as nursing mothers require extra calories when feeding kittens.

When the mother is absent:

• Kittens should only be removed from their nest if there is no sign of the mother cat after several hours or if the location is hazardous, and they are visibly distressed.
• Remove the kittens if they appear weak, thin, wet, or matted.
• Persistent crying or mewing each time you check on them indicates distress.
• If the kittens have goopy discharge from their eyes and nose and/or feel very cold to the touch.

Need help estimating the age of the kitten(s)? Click here.

In many situations, employing a trap can be a humane and effective method to ensure the safety and well-being of the entire feline family.

Remember, spaying and neutering pets is the best way to controlling the pet population and preventing situations like these in the future. Keep cats who are not spayed and neutered indoors. Forgotten Feline has more tips and resources.