What should I do if a stray cat has kittens in my yard?
Handling Stray Cats with Kittens
Overview
Finding a stray cat and her kittens can be concerning, but the best approach is usually to give them space and allow the mother to care for them. Animal Control is available if the situation requires intervention.
If you discover a stray cat with kittens in your yard, here are some important steps to follow:
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Contact Animal Control – Call 512-930-3510 for assistance. An Animal Control Officer can evaluate the situation and, if needed, set a humane trap for the mother and kittens.
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Leave Them Alone When Possible – In most cases, kittens are safest with their mother. If they appear clean, plump, and sleeping quietly, the mother is likely nearby.
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Avoid Premature Separation – Removing kittens and taking them to a shelter isn’t always the healthiest choice. Kittens separated too early have a higher risk of illness and mortality.
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Observe from a Distance – If you don’t see the mother, quietly watch from afar. Mother cats often leave briefly to find food or relocate their litter to a safer place.
Keeping the mother and kittens together for as long as possible gives them the best chance of survival.
Additional Resources