Before you scoop up that litter, learn why waiting for mom—and taking the right steps—can make all the difference for their survival.

Spring and summer in Cincinnati might mean longer days and warmer weather—but in the animal welfare world, it also means kitten season. If you’ve stumbled upon a litter of kittens nestled under a bush or tucked beside your porch, your instincts may be shouting, “Rescue them!” But before you scoop up those tiny meows and head to the shelter, it’s important to pause, assess the situation, and make sure you’re actually helping.

What Is Kitten Season?

Kitten season is the time of year when unspayed female cats give birth most often—usually between March and October. In Hamilton County, this leads to a flood of kittens being born outdoors, many to free-roaming or community cats. While some of these kittens do need human help, many are already being cared for by their mother—and that’s the best-case scenario for their survival.

What Should I Do If I Find Kittens Outside?

Start by asking yourself: Are the kittens injured or visibly sick?

If the kittens are cold, lethargic, visibly ill, or in immediate danger, it’s appropriate to bring them to Cincinnati Animal CARE’s main location at 3949 Colerain Avenue. You can also call the shelter at 513-541-7387 for guidance.

But if they look healthy, warm, and clean—it’s time to do the opposite of what your instincts tell you: Leave them where they are.

Don’t Kit-Nap! Mom Might Be Nearby

In most cases, the mother cat is nearby, possibly hiding from you or out hunting. Kittens have a far better chance of survival when they stay with their mother, who can nurse them, groom them, and keep them warm. Removing kittens too early can interrupt critical development and even lead to their death.

Instead, observe from a distance. If you don’t see mom right away, wait a few hours. She’s likely waiting for you to leave before returning. To be extra sure, you can sprinkle a ring of flour around the kittens and check back later—if you see paw prints, you’ll know she came back.

Estimate the Age of the Kittens

Knowing the kittens’ age can help guide your next steps. Use the infographic above or these basic tips to estimate:

• 0–2 weeks old: Eyes closed or just beginning to open; stay very still
• 2–4 weeks old: Eyes fully open; starting to scoot around
• 4–6 weeks old: Walking well, curious, may nibble on food
• 6–8 weeks old: Very mobile and playful; likely around 1–2 pounds
• 8+ weeks old: Social, independent, and weaned; ready for adoption or placement

No Sign of Mom?

If you’ve monitored for several hours and mom still hasn’t returned, the kittens might truly need help. First, make sure they’re safe and warm. Then contact Cincinnati Animal CARE for advice on next steps. We may be able to guide you through becoming a temporary foster or help coordinate placement with one of our rescue partners.

What If the Kittens Are Friendly?

If the kittens are over 8 weeks old and comfortable with people, you may be able to help them without coming to the shelter at all. Use your social network to help find homes, or talk to a local TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) group about getting them fixed.

Remember, there is no stray hold for kittens in Ohio, and shelters are often full—especially during kitten season. Helping from home may actually be the best option.

Help the Whole Family—Not Just the Kittens

The best way to help kittens and prevent more from being born is to ensure the entire family gets fixed. If you’re seeing kittens now, there’s likely an unspayed female nearby. Contact a local TNR group or Cincinnati Animal CARE to help spay and return the mom cat when her kittens are weaned.

Final Thoughts

We get it—found kittens pull at the heartstrings. But by pausing and taking the right steps, you’re doing what’s truly best for them. Don’t rush to the rescue—wait, watch, and then act wisely.

📍 Still unsure? Call us at 513-541-7387 or visit CincinnatiAnimalCARE.org for more kitten care resources and information on how to get involved with TNR or fostering.

When in doubt, remember this: The best incubator for a kitten is its mother.