Frequently Asked Questions
How soon can a nursing momma cat be spayed?
A nursing momma cat can be spayed as soon as the kittens are starting to eat on their own. This is usually about 5 weeks after delivery. Momma cat can be trapped and spayed as long as someone can put food out for the kittens for the 1-2 days that momma will be gone. Momma will be returned after being spayed, and can continue to nurse the kittens until they are fully weaned.
How soon can kittens be spayed/neutered?
Kittens can be spayed/neutered when they are about 3 months old, or when they weigh about 3 pounds. They should visibly be about the size of an adult squirel. You should not wait any longer than 4 months if the kittens are living outside, as kittens can begin reproducing at 4 months of age.
I found kittens, what do I do?
Healthy kittens should be left alone, even if you don't see their mother. The momma cat is probably close by waiting for you to leave. You should not remove healthy kittens unless you personally plan to keep them, or you personally plan to adopt them out. Rescues and shelters are overwhelmed, and space should be saved for kittens that are sick, injured, or abandoned and really need to be rescued. Read this article to help you decide.
https://www.alleycat.org/community-cat-care/finding-kittens-outdoors/
I don't want these cats/kittens here. Can you remove them?
We do not remove cats/kittens for a number of reasons. We have no where to take them. If they are feral and are taken to a shelter, they will be euthanized. And if there is someone feeding cats in the neighborhood, new cats will just move in. This is called the vacumn effect. You can read more about this HERE. The best thing to do is to get the cats spayed/neutered and then leave them alone. They will stop breeding and fighting. They will control the rodent population. And they will keep new cats from moving in the neighborhood.
How do I keep cats out of my yard?
https://www.alleycat.org/resources/how-to-live-with-cats-in-your-neighborhood/
Can I relocate a feral cat?
It is usually not a good idea to relocate feral cats. Feral cats form strong attachments to their colonies and their territory. Many cats will try to return to their territory if relocated, and many will die trying. If you must relocate a feral cat, there is a specific process that should be followed to help transition the cat to it's new territory and help ensure it does not leave. Read more HERE about why relocation should be a last resort and how to do it safely if it must be done.