Found Baby Kittens?
Before you move them, pause and observe.
Finding tiny kittens can feel urgent, but they may not be abandoned. Their mother may be nearby looking for food or moving the litter. In many cases, the safest choice is to wait, watch, and keep the kittens with their mom if possible.
First Step: Wait & Watch
Observe from a safe distance for 1–2 hours. The mother cat may be hiding nearby and waiting for people to leave before returning. Kittens have the best chance of survival with their mother.
If Mom Returns
Leave the kittens with her if they appear safe. Mom is their best source of warmth, nutrition, and care. Provide space and avoid disturbing the nest.
If Mom Does Not Return
Very young kittens need round-the-clock care, including bottle feeding every 2–3 hours, even overnight. This is a serious time commitment.
If You Bring Them Inside
Keep kittens separate from your pets until they are evaluated by a veterinarian. Young kittens are fragile and need warmth, cleanliness, and careful feeding.
Quick Kitten Age Guide
Under 1 Week
Eyes closed, ears flat, skin may look pinkish, and part of the umbilical cord may still be attached.
1 Week–10 Days
Eyes begin to open, ears are still flat, and kittens are usually smaller than your hand.
3 Weeks
Eyes are fully open, ears are upright, teeth are visible, and kittens begin walking, though they may be wobbly.
4–5 Weeks
Eye color may begin changing, kittens start pouncing or leaping, and they may begin eating gruel or canned food.
Important to Know
- Kittens have the best chance of survival with their mother.
- For healthy social development, kittens should stay with their litter and mother, if possible, until at least 8 weeks old.
- If you cannot keep kittens until 8 weeks, keeping them until at least 6 weeks gives them a much better chance.
- DCHS has limited resources and volunteers available for bottle-feeding orphaned kittens.
Need Help Caring for Young Kittens?
If you have found baby kittens or need help caring for them, Kitten Lady offers excellent lifesaving resources, including feeding schedules and care instructions.
Visit Kitten Care ResourcesStill Not Sure What to Do?
Contact the Dubois County Humane Society before moving kittens unless they are in immediate danger.
[email protected]812-482-7387 Option 1