When the Shelter Can’t Take Kittens You Found: What Are Your Options?

It’s a heartbreaking moment: you find a litter of kittens — tiny, helpless, and seemingly alone — and you rush to your local shelter for help… only to be told they can’t take them.

If you’ve been in this situation, you’re not alone. Shelters across the country are overwhelmed, especially during “kitten season” (spring through fall), when the number of homeless kittens skyrockets. Many facilities simply don’t have the resources or staff to care for every kitten who needs help.

If the shelter can’t help, what can you do?

Don’t panic. There are options — and what you do next could make all the difference for those kittens.

First, Assess the Situation

Before scooping up those kittens, pause. Ask yourself:

• Are they warm? Cold kittens need heat, not food, first.

• Are they clean? A groomed kitten often means Mom is nearby.

• Are they plump and sleeping? Well-fed, content kittens are likely still being cared for by their mother.

If they look healthy and safe, the best option is often to wait and watch. A mother cat may be out hunting or hiding nearby. She’s their best chance for survival.

If Mom Doesn’t Return

If after several hours (or sooner if the kittens are clearly in distress — cold, crying, thin), Mom hasn’t returned, it may be time to step in.

• Keep them warm: A heating pad on low (wrapped in a towel) or a warm water bottle can save their lives.

• Do NOT feed them cow’s milk: It can make them sick. Kitten-specific formula (like KMR or Breeder’s Edge) is the safest option. You can use goat's milk in a pinch.

• Handle gently: Small kittens are fragile and need careful handling.

Reach Out to Kitten-Specific Rescues

While some shelters can’t take neonates, specialized rescues often can — or they can teach you how to care for them until placement is possible.

Start by:

• Searching online for “kitten rescue near me.”

• Contacting foster-based organizations in your county or nearby cities.

• Using social media (local Facebook groups can be surprisingly helpful for connecting with resources).

Many of these groups can provide supplies, training, or even foster homes for the kittens.

Consider Becoming a Short-Term Foster

This might sound intimidating, but don’t underestimate yourself! Many people who find kittens end up becoming their first — and best — caregivers.

Many rescues offer:

• 24/7 support by phone or text

• Starter kits with formula, bottles, and bedding

• Training videos or in-person guidance to walk you through care

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Even caring for kittens for a few days can give rescues time to find a longer-term foster or open space.

Lean on Your Community

You don’t have to do this alone.

• Ask friends or neighbors to pitch in with supplies or short shifts of care.

• Post on neighborhood apps or groups for help — you may be surprised how many people are willing to step up when they know what’s needed.

• Local veterinarians may offer advice or discounted care for found kittens.

Think Long-Term: Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR)

If you found a litter, chances are there’s an unspayed mom nearby. Once the kittens are safe, helping mom get spayed will prevent future litters.

Many TNR programs provide traps, spay/neuter appointments, and even transportation help.

It’s Overwhelming — But You’re Not Alone

We know this can feel like a lot, but remember: you don’t need to do everything yourself. Taking just one step — whether that’s keeping the kittens warm overnight, connecting with a rescue, or fostering temporarily — could save their lives.