The story of Blossom, Bud, Bloom, Buttercup, and Bee reflects that of so many young kittens like them. They were born in the balmy early springtime, and their mother, Brook, was present and attentive. Yet, they wound up in an animal shelter. If not for the swift action of Alley Cat Allies and our veterinary allies, they may have been killed shortly after they arrived.
Spring marks the beginning of kitten season, the time of year most young kittens are born. During this time, well-meaning people often find kittens outdoors and bring them to animal shelters, believing it is the best way to help. In many cases, these shelters lack the right humane programs…and young kittens are killed instead.
At the time of writing, the spring siblings are growing up fast and exploring the world around them a little more every day on wobbly legs. But while Alley Cat Allies helped save this little family, their story illuminates the importance of education this time of year.
Our Leave Them Be™ campaign is spreading the word: Mother cats are kittens’ best caretakers, and most kittens outdoors don’t need to be rescued. Rather than bring the kittens to a shelter, a caregiver could have provided Brook with regular food, and an outdoor shelter, to help her care for her kittens right where they were.
As we bring critical educational resources to more communities this year, we’re counting on our supporters like you to stand with us. Together, we can stop the killing during kitten season.
Learn more about Leave Them Be at alleycat.org/LeaveThemBe.
Share steps to take to help kittens outdoors at alleycat.org/FoundAKitten.