STEP 1:
Stop & Observe
Do not pick up the kitten right away.
Mother cats often leave their kittens temporarily to find food. Watch from a distance for 4–6 hours.
✔️ If the mother returns, leave the kitten where it is
✔️ You may provide a small shelter nearby
✔️ Keep people and pets away
❗ Intervene immediately if the kitten is:
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In danger (traffic, flooding, extreme weather)
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Crying continuously
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Cold, injured, or weak
STEP 2:
Check the Kitten’s Condition
If the kitten is:
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Warm, quiet, and clean → mom may still be caring for them
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Cold, crying nonstop, dirty, flea-covered, or injured → the kitten needs help no
⚠️ A cold kitten cannot digest food and must be warmed first.
STEP 3:
Estimate the Kitten’s Age
Age determines care needs:
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0–2 weeks: Eyes closed or just opening, unable to walk
→ Requires bottle feeding every 2–3 hours -
3–4 weeks: Eyes open, starting to walk
→ May begin slurry (formula + wet food) -
5+ weeks: Walking well, playful
→ Can eat kitten food
🚫 Never give cow’s milk — it causes severe digestive issues.
STEP 4:
If You Bring the Kitten Indoors
Warmth Comes First
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Heating pad on low, under half the box
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Or warm water bottle wrapped in a towel
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Always allow space to move away from heat
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🚫 Do not feed a cold kitten.
Feeding
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Use kitten milk replacer only
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Feed neonates every 2–3 hours, including overnight
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Stimulate to potty after feeding with a warm, damp cloth
STEP 5:
Do NOT Bathe Young Kittens
Bathing can cause hypothermia and shock.
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Use a flea comb only
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Do not apply flea treatments to young kittens
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Heavy flea infestations require immediate help
⚠️ Fleas on tiny kittens can be life-threatening.
STEP 6:
Contact Help Immediately
Even if you plan to help short-term, please reach out.
📍 Tri City Kitty Rescue can:
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Help assess the situation
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Provide care instructions
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Assist with placement or supplies
💡 Many rescues can guide you even if they are full.
