Pet of the Week: New Kittens

Yuba County Animal Care Services is pleased to announce the new 2013 spring line of kittens are starting to arrive. Soon we will have kittens in every shape, size, and color, with more arriving daily. There is sure to be one that will be the right fit for you and your family. We would like to take this opportunity to pass on a little information in regards to finding kittens you think may be abandoned. IMPORTANT – MAKE SURE THAT THE KITTENS REALLY ARE ABANDONED. Should you come across kittens outdoors, you may be tempted to pick them up and bring them home with you, but that might not be in the best interest of the kittens. It is especially crucial for newborn kittens to receive the nutrition from Mom's milk during the first couple of days of their lives. This milk not only provides nutrition, but also sets up their immune system to protect them against disease. Their best chance for survival is to be able to remain with their mother. Just because kittens are alone when you find them, doesn't necessarily mean they have been abandoned by their mother. The mother could simply be looking for food, in the process of moving them to a new nest, or she may be merely out of sight when you find a litter of kittens. She is very good at remaining out of sight and just because you do not see her at the nest, it doesn’t necessarily mean she is not close at hand. The bigger the kittens, the longer the mom cat can be gone. If possible, observe the site quietly for several hours to be sure that the kittens are truly abandoned. The best thing to do is take the kittens to a vet or rescue group. Our cute cuddly kittens (one in the picture is ID# A127038) and beautiful adult cats can be seen Monday – Friday 10am – 3:30pm and Saturdays 10am – 2pm, at 5245 Feather River Blvd., Olivehurst, 530-741-6478. You can also see them online at www.petharbor.com or www.petfinder.com.

Published 4/17/13