Helpful information for protecting cats, supporting community kittens, and knowing what to do when you find a newborn.
Why Spay & Neuter Matters
Spaying and neutering is one of the most important ways our community can reduce unwanted litters and the number of homeless cats and kittens. It also provides important health benefits. Spaying can prevent uterine infections and reduce the risk of mammary tumors, while neutering prevents testicular cancer and can reduce some prostate problems.
For community cats, programs such as TNVR (Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return) help humanely prevent repeated litters while allowing cared-for outdoor cats to return to their familiar territory.
Use Flea Medication Safely
Never choose a flea treatment simply because it is inexpensive or easy to find. The most important thing is that the product is specifically labeled for cats and is appropriate for the kitten or cat’s age and weight. Some flea products made for dogs can cause life-threatening reactions in cats, and many products are not safe for very young kittens.
Always read the entire label before use. If a kitten is very young, underweight, sick, or you are unsure which product is safe, contact a veterinarian or rescue professional before applying medication. Never use a dog flea product on a cat unless a veterinarian has specifically directed you to do so.
Please Don’t Kitten-Nap
Finding tiny kittens outdoors does not always mean they have been abandoned. Mother cats often leave their kittens for periods of time while they search for food or wait for people to leave the area. Whenever the kittens are warm, quiet, clean, and appear safe, give mom an opportunity to return and observe from a distance.
Whenever possible, young kittens should remain with their mother. She provides the nutrition, warmth, cleaning, stimulation, and protection they need. Intervene right away if the kittens are injured, visibly sick, cold, in immediate danger, or you know the mother has died or cannot return.
If You Find a Newborn Who Truly Needs Help
Newborn kittens are extremely fragile and require around-the-clock care. If possible, contact a veterinarian, experienced rescue, or neonatal kitten caregiver for guidance. If you must provide emergency care, follow these steps carefully:
Warm the kitten first
A chilled kitten should not be fed. Gently warm the kitten before offering formula.
Use kitten milk replacer
Use a commercial kitten formula prepared according to the package directions. Do not give cow’s milk, dairy alternatives, or human baby formula.
Feed belly-down
Keep the kitten in a natural nursing position with the belly facing down – never on the back like a human baby.
Let the kitten nurse slowly
Do not squeeze formula forcefully into the mouth. Formula flowing too quickly can enter the lungs and cause aspiration.
Feed frequently
Very young newborns generally require feedings around the clock, often about every two hours during the first week. Follow age, weight, product directions, and veterinary or rescue guidance.
Help with bathroom needs
Very young kittens cannot urinate or defecate on their own. After feedings, gently stimulate the genital area with a warm, damp soft cloth or tissue.
Track weight and condition
Weigh the kitten daily if possible. A kitten who will not eat, cannot swallow, becomes weak or lethargic, has trouble breathing, feels cold, or loses weight needs prompt professional help.
Trusted Educational Resources
- ASPCA – Spay/Neuter Your Pet and flea medication safety guidance
- Kitten Lady – Newborn kitten care, bottle feeding, age guides, and orphan kitten education
- Maddie’s Fund – Orphan kitten foster and bottle-feeding resources