Kitten Season in North Dakota: When to Step In and Help

Welcome to "kitten season" in North Dakota. It's called that because from spring to fall, stray and feral cats have their litters outside. The compassionate side of us wants to rescue these babies in distress, but we should refrain from kidnapping kittens.

Use the checklist below to determine when it's necessary to intervene. 

Are They Abandoned?

If you find a dumping of kittens in a box or bag, or see 1-2 kittens wandering in an unexpected or dangerous area, they need immediate help. If they are hungry and still not weaned, give them warmed kitten formula, not milk, since dairy products can upset their tummies. 

Coming Across a Kitten Nest: 

Assume the mom is still in the area; she may be out looking for food or may have noticed your presence and is waiting for you to leave.  Kittens with round bellies, soundly sleeping, are likely being fed. 

Observe from a distance and check on them every 2 hours. Provide a shelter near the nest with dry food and water, because nursing mama cats need extra calories when feeding kittens. 

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When the Mother is Absent: 

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

Using a live animal trap guarantees the safety and well-being of the entire feline family. There are six types of traps for cats. Need help estimating the age of the kitten(s)? Click here. 

Forgotten Feline and local rescues have more tips and resources.