You found a kitten. Now what? 

They’re cute, cuddly and desperately in need of your help. Or are they? 

If you find a litter of tiny kittens outdoors, it’s natural to want to scoop them up and try to care for them yourself or take them to a shelter. But both of those options might actually place them in more danger. Young kittens are at high risk of dying or being killed in shelters because they require around-the-clock care. 

Most shelters don’t have the time, space and people power to attend to the critical needs of young kittens. The best thing to do for healthy kittens is to leave them with their mother, who is often nearby planning to return and care for her babies. 

Person bottle feeding a tiny kitten

Get the supplies you need to get started 

If you need help with supplies to get you started, send us a text at 323-861-3364. 

The NKLA kitten rescuer program 

No mom to be found? You can be the rescuer, and we’ll show you how! 

If mom hasn’t returned for 12 hours and the kittens appear healthy, it’s time to step in and be their hero. You can care for the kittens yourself, right from the comfort of your home. While caring for newborn kittens can seem daunting, it is completely doable and incredibly rewarding. Plus, by keeping the kittens out of a shelter, you are giving them a better chance to survive and thrive.  

And you won’t be alone: Our kitten rescue program is here to help. Through education and real-time assistance from kitten experts, this program is designed to keep fragile kittens out of crowded shelters. Check out the resources below for all the information you’ll need to get started as a kitten rescuer. 

For more information, text us at 323-861-3364.

Silhouettes of two cats

Found a kitten who is visibly sick or injured? 

Seek veterinary attention immediately from a local veterinarian or the nearest animal shelter. 

Caring for kittens 

If you’ve found kittens and are sure the mother isn’t returning, here’s what you’ll need to know about providing lifesaving love and care for them. 

Get help feeding kittens 

Whether it’s your first time fostering or you’re a pro, Best Friends has resources to ensure that your kitten fostering journey goes as smoothly as possible. 

Los Angeles spay/neuter services 

Spaying and neutering are key in ending the killing of homeless pets in shelters. 

The list below includes a small selection of spay/neuter services offered in Los Angeles. Please note that it is not all-inclusive. Some clinics may also provide vaccines and limited wellness care for veterinary needs beyond sterilization. Visit the organization’s website to make sure the facility is open, to get more information on the services offered, and to schedule an appointment.  

You can also go to a private veterinary clinic or animal hospital for veterinary needs, including spay/neuter services.

FixNation »

Community Animal Medical Project »

Spay-4-LA »

ASPCA L.A. Spay/Neuter Clinic »

LAAS Free and Low-Cost Spay and Neuter Vouchers »

Low-Cost Spay and Neuter Clinic Near You »

Help kittens find permanent loving homes 

Learn the best ways to get the word out about adoptable kittens. 

Still need help?  

If you have a question or need some guidance, text us at 323-861-3364 (no phone calls, please).  


 

Our partners around the country 

Jacksonville Humane Society

Arizona Humane Society

Alley Cat Allies