ADMISSIONS

You just found a group of tiny newborn kittens and their mother is nowhere to be seen.  Before that rescue instinct kicks in and you scoop them up, take a deep breath, step back and evaluate the situation. ​ In most cases, removing the kittens is not the best response. Healthy kittens? Give mom time. Mother cats may leave their kittens for several hours at a time. If the kittens are warm and don’t appear sick or in distress, their mom is likely nearby, getting food or hiding from you. ​ The kittens’ best chances for survival are with their mom. Her milk is much better quality than kitten milk replacement. She’s able to keep them warm and stimulate them to pee and poop, as well as help them learn to be cats. ​ Keep in mind that your presence may keep her away, so monitor the nest from a distance. Or, you may sprinkle a ring of flour around the nest or place some light twigs atop the kittens. If these are disturbed when you return or the kittens have full, rounded bellies, the mother cat is caring for her babies. Learn More

Have you found a stray? Can you no longer care for your own cat? Cat Haven takes friendly, adoptable cats and kittens from the community when space is available.   If you would like to apply to place a cat or kitten in our program, please complete an admission request and allow 5 to 7 business days to receive a response via email. Be sure to check your spam mail for a response. ​ If you are looking for immediate placement, Companion Animal Alliance is the only open-intake shelter in Baton Rouge.