Kitten season in Georgia typically runs from March through October, and during this time it’s common to find litters of kittens outdoors. While your first instinct might be to scoop them up and bring them to a shelter or rescue, please keep in mind that most shelters, including HSFC, are operating at full capacity year-round.
The best way to help? Learn how to be part of the long-term solution for these vulnerable lives.

Step 1: Observe Before You Act

Before removing kittens, ask yourself the following:
• Are the kittens clean or dirty?
• Do they appear well-fed or thin?
• Are they cold and wet, or warm and cozy?

If the Kittens Are Clean, Warm, and Well-Fed

Mama is almost certainly nearby.
Mother cats often leave their kittens for extended periods to hunt for food. If the kittens are:
• Under 5–6 weeks old and unable to eat on their own,
• And they look healthy and warm,
Leave them where they are and check back later.
The mother provides vital antibodies through her milk, and staying with her is the kittens’ best chance at survival.
When the kittens are 6–8 weeks old, trap them AND their mom so everyone can be fixed. A female cat can get pregnant as early as 4 months old and have up to three litters per year.

If the Kittens Are Dirty, Thin, or Cold

Take action immediately.
Bring the kittens inside, especially if:
• They are visibly dirty or underweight
• They are cold to the touch or unresponsive
Here’s what to do:
1. Warm them up – Place them on a low setting heating pad covered with a towel. Don’t let them lie directly on the heat source.
2. Offer food and water – If they’re over 5 weeks old, try canned kitten food. Do not give cow’s milk.
3. If they’re too young to eat, they’ll need to be bottle-fed or dropper-fed with KMR (Kitten Milk Replacement).
[Click here for HSFC’s guide on caring for orphaned kittens.]