Finding Orphaned Kittens
Not all kittens need help. The best place for kittens is with their mother, so before you scoop up kittens you find outdoors, it is important to determine if they’re truly orphans or if mom is hiding or hunting nearby.
If mom is nearby, let her be the one to care for them until they are 8-weeks-old. Mom is their best chance of survival. After the kittens are 8-weeks-old, the DFW Kitten Network can help you make sure both mom and kittens are spayed/neutered.
PRO-TIP:
Mom might be scared to come back if you’re watching her nest. Try leaving a ring of flour around the kittens and checking back after a few hours to see if you can see mom’s footprints.
Follow the chart below to determine what to do next.
Helping Kittens That Have Been Orphaned
Unfortunately, there are times when kittens become permanently separated from their mothers. In this case, it is important to get them appropriate care.
You’d make a great foster parent! If you’re willing to care for the kittens until they’re two months old (or weigh 2 lbs) and can be fixed for adoption, call 311 and let them know you’re interested in being a finder foster.
If you’re unable to care for the kittens, we’re still here to help. If you found confirmed orphaned, critically sick, or injured kittens within the city of Dallas, call 311 and we will work to find them a foster within our program or with one of our rescue partners.
Additional Resources for Caring for Orphaned Kittens
If you’re unable to care for the kittens, we’re still here to help. If you found confirmed orphaned, critically sick, or injured kittens within the city of Dallas, call 311 and we will work to find them a foster within our program or with one of our rescue partners.
Didn’t Find the Kittens in the City of Dallas?
Reach out to one of the groups in the DFW Kitten Network for help!
Once kittens have reached 8 weeks of age, we encourage you to seek spay/neuter services for TNR (Trap, Neuter, Return) or prior to rehoming the kittens.
Get more information about the DFW Kitten Network