Upon finding an abandoned newborn, there are steps and dangers to consider, prior to taking it away from the area it was found.

Instructions

Step 1: 

Look for the mother cat. She may be in the area, or waiting till you leave to return to the litter. Always observe the nest from a safe distance.

Step  2: 

Ask any residents in the area if the mother has been spotted recently, as the mother will periodically leave the kittens for food and return. A useful tip is to sprinkle flour around the kittens’ nest so that you will be able to see if the mother has returned, judging by any paw prints left on the flour. Do this very carefully as the kittens best not inhale the flour.

Step 3: 

If the kittens are healthy and safe, wait for 4-6 hours to ensure that the mother cat isn’t available. If the kitten is abandoned take it in and assist in keeping it warm (Refer: Keeping Newborns Warm). Remove the kittens from the area if they seem ill, or are in immediate danger from rain/predators/traffic. Consult a vet to better guide you through the nursing process.

Tips for if the mother cat returns

• If the mother cat seems uncomfortable around people, do not disturb the nest until the litter is weaned (6-8 weeks). 

• Monitor the environment. Offer shelter (giving the mother cat a few options is helpful and increases the chances that she will use it) and provide regular food in safe and protected areas. 

• Make sure to keep the food and shelter at a distance from each other. The mother cat will accept the food but will not accept your shelter if the food is located near the nest, as she will not want to attract other cats or predators.

• Once the kittens are weaned, the mother cat should be sterilized and put up for adoption, along with the kittens.

Photo by Zetong Li from Unsplash.