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Care for Mom & Kittens Outside

STEP 1: Help Feed Mom and Kittens

Care 1

If mom and kittens look well-fed, skip this step! Check in regularly to see if they're all staying healthy.

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Cat Food:

  • Affordable Dry Kitten Food

  • Optional: Wet Kitten Food

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Water:

  • Summer: Lots of water!

  • Winter: Water in wide, deep bowls to prevent freezing

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A Feeding Station is a good option to keep food dry and clean. Check out options for feeding stations below:

STEP 2: Provide Shelter

Care 2

If mom and kittens are in a safe, warm, and dry space skip this step! Check in regularly to see if they're all staying healthy.

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A Winter Cat Shelter is a good option in the winter or wet months.

STEP 3: Check for Other Cats

Care 3

Spay and Neuter Surgeries:

  • Spay Mom Cat

  • Other cats in the area should be fixed to prevent future litters of kittens

  • Fix kittens when they reach 2-3 pounds (2-3 months old)

Move

Move Mom & Kittens Inside

STEP 1: Move Kittens Indoors

Move 1

If mom or kittens are difficult to catch, follow the below trapping instructions:

Ideas for Kitten Spaces:​

  • Bathroom

  • Spare Bedroom

  • Small Playpen or Crate

  • Garage

  • A Friend's or Family Member's Home

STEP 2: Care for Family

Move 2

Kittens of this age should be eating independently.

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Feeding:

​Don't worry about overfeeding and expect some spills!

  • Canned Kitten Food

  • Dry Kitten Kibble

  • Fresh Water

  • 2-3 Shallow Water Bowls (to prevent drowning)

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Litter Box:

  • Low-Sided Box or Aluminum Pan

  • Non-Clumping Pellet Litter (usually made of pine or paper)

STEP 3: Socialize the Kittens

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At this age, they are a bit beyond the ideal age for socialization but try your best!

  • Food is the fastest way to a kitten's heart

  • Play with Toys

  • Gentle Petting

STEP 4: Kitten Health Care

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Assess Kitten Health:​

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Spaying/Neutering:

  • Spay mom and kittens as soon as possible

  • Any other cats seen in the area you found the kittens should also be fixed in order to stop the cycle of kittens being born outside

  • Talk with your vet to see if they can help offset costs or find your local low-cost spay and neuter clinic

For Additional Support:

​Join one of the below Facebook Groups:

Move 5

STEP 7: Rehome Kittens

Once your kittens are 2-3 months old, rehoming is your best option for finding them a new family. 

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