- Often kittens are orphaned because their parents have died. Humans may have also intervened by taking the kittens away from their parents. They are often dropped off in rural areas or at animal shelters, in hopes that they will find a good home.
- Each year orphaned kittens are euthanized at animal shelters, due to overcrowding. According to a 2007 article in the "Los Angeles Times" titled "For Motherless kittens, Spring's a Desperate Time," writer Carla Hall noted that Los Angeles County's Department of Animal Care & Control euthanized nearly 8,000 unweaned kittens between July 1, 2005 and June 30, 2006.
- If an orphaned kitten has been living outside for more than a few days, he may have a few health concerns. If he is quite young, he may be malnourished, and will need milk replacer and fresh water immediately. He may have also contracted fleas, ticks or worms. If you plan to bring an orphaned kitten into your home, isolate it from your pets and children until you know it is healthy. If you plan on keeping the kitten as a pet, schedule an exam with a veterinarian.
- It may be hard to tell the age of the orphaned kitten. If you see teeth, the kitten is old enough to eat dry kibble cat food, or a semi-moist canned cat food. If the kitten is very young, it was probably still nursing until just before it became an orphan. Pet stores sell small baby-style bottles for hand-feeding kittens. Milk replacer is also available in liquid or powder forms. Never give an orphaned kitten cow's milk. It will make them sick. Offer all kittens fresh water at all times.
- If you find an orphaned kitten, you have a few options. You may choose to keep the kitten and make it a family pet, take it to a local animal shelter or put an ad in the newspaper and try to find it a home. If the animal is "free to a good home," many newspapers will offer to run the listing for free. Check local pet stores for adoption bulletin boards or adoption programs.
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