Every spring, social media lights up with adorable photos of tiny kittens found outside. And while the instinct to help is a good one, well-meaning actions can sometimes do more harm than good.

Kitten season is a high-stakes time for rescuers—and the choices we make as individuals can literally mean the difference between life and death for a kitten.

So let’s talk about the most common mistakes people make during kitten season—and what you should do instead.

❌ Mistake #1: Picking Up a Kitten Without Looking for the Mom

Why It’s a Problem:

People often assume kittens are orphaned when they see them alone, but mom may just be out getting food or waiting for you to leave.

What to Do Instead:

Observe from a distance. If the kittens look clean, warm, and are not crying, mom is likely nearby. Wait a few hours—if she doesn’t return, then you may need to intervene.

📚 [Link to Gilu resource on assessing kitten age and condition]

❌ Mistake #2: Taking a Litter to a Shelter Without a Plan

Why It’s a Problem:

Many shelters are over capacity during kitten season and may not be able to provide immediate care. In some areas, very young kittens are at risk of being euthanized if no foster is available.

What to Do Instead:

Contact local rescue groups first. Many have foster networks or emergency programs that shelters don’t.

📞 [Link to our Kitten Season Support Directory – coming soon!]

❌ Mistake #3: Feeding Kittens Cow’s Milk

Why It’s a Problem:

Cats are lactose-intolerant. Hence, cow’s milk can cause diarrhea, dehydration, and malnutrition in kittens. It’s not safe or appropriate for newborns.

What to Do Instead:

Use a kitten milk replacer like KMR or PetAg, available at pet stores or vets. In emergencies, consult with a rescue group for safe alternatives.

🍼 Bonus Tip: Never feed a cold kitten—warm them first!

❌ Mistake #4: Not Knowing When to Ask for Help

Why It’s a Problem:

Trying to do everything alone often leads to burnout—or worse, unintentional harm due to inexperience.

What to Do Instead:

It’s okay to be new at this. Reach out to rescues, Seek guidance from reputable sources to ensure you’re providing appropriate care. For detailed information on caring for neonatal kittens, including feeding, warmth, and health monitoring, refer to this comprehensive guide by Alley Cat Allies.

❌ Mistake #5: Believing Your Actions Don’t Matter

Why It’s a Problem:

It’s easy to feel like $1 won’t make a difference. Or that someone else will step in. But every dollar, every shared post, every volunteer hour adds up.

What to Do Instead:

Join the movement in whatever way you can. 

• 💛 Donate $1/month to the Purr-sistence Fund 
• 🛍️ Shop the Kitten Season Collection (15% funds rescue) 
• 📢 Share this article to help others avoid these mistakes

🔗 Join the Purr-sistence Fund

🔗 Shop GiluCats

🔗 Support a FAN Campaign

🐾 Help Us Spread the Word

Education saves lives—especially during kitten season. Share this post with your community so more people know what to do before they find a kitten.

Together, we can build a more informed, compassionate, and capable rescue village.