Spring is historically the time of new birth. The earth thaws, flowers begin to bloom and humans emerge from their houses again. It also marks the start of kitten season.Â
Kitten season? Yes! Beginning in April, cat reproduction goes into overdrive. But while all those bundles of fluff and wide eyes are indeed adorable, it also creates a serious burden on Utah animal shelters.
Kitten season is the perfect time to add a pet to your family.
When is kitten season?
The birth of animals in the spring is not unusual. Warm weather means longer days and better access to good food sources, improving their chances of survival. But kitten season is not limited to just one litter.Â
Cats continue to reproduce throughout the summer months and into fall — from April to October. It’s impossible to know the exact number of kittens born in Utah during a typical year, but thousands are brought to shelters and rescue groups.
Felines can have kittens anytime, but feral litters are more common when it’s warm outside. With an average litter size of four to six kittens, that can mean a serious increase in the cat population. As a result, shelters become overwhelmed, putting a strain on their resources and budgets.
Leave strays alone
The Humane Society of Utah notes that if you find a feral kitten litter, it’s usually best to leave them where they are. Kittens are more likely to survive if they are left with their mother than brought into a shelter. In addition, removing the kittens causes stress for the mother.
Consider adopting a couple of kittens so they have a companion to play with.
How you can help during kitten season
If you’ve been wanting to add a cat to your family, kitten season is an ideal time to do so. In fact, if you don’t already have a cat, it’s a good idea to adopt a pair of kittens. Just like you, they enjoy having a buddy to play with, especially when the humans are away.Â
Search adoptable cats on KSL →
Foster a cat
If you’re not ready to commit to full-time pet parenthood, you could foster a cat litter instead. Usually a shelter will provide all the items you’ll need to care for the kittens until they are ready to be adopted. You could also foster an individual cat that needs extra love and attention before it’s ready to be rehomed.
Kittens are typically ready for adoption at 12 weeks.
When is the best time to adopt a cat?
Kittens are typically ready to be placed in their new home around 12 weeks. By the time they are three months old, they are weaned and ready to eat solid foods. They’ve also learned essential skills from their mother:
- Litter box training
- Socialization
- Bite inhibition
- Communication skills
Kittens may be vaccinated and spayed or neutered when they reach 2 pounds, usually at about eight weeks. Still, it’s best to wait until 12 weeks before adopting them or you risk having a cat with behavior problems.
Support your local animal shelter during kitten season
You don’t have to adopt a kitten to help Utah animal shelters. You can also support them with donations. Shelters are often in need of basic supplies such as litter boxes and kitten food. Reach out to your local shelter to ask if there is something it currently needs, or specific brands it prefers.Â
Organize your neighbors to help
An easy and inexpensive way to help is to hold a neighborhood drive to collect old towels and blankets. Or, host a shelter shower where everyone brings a gift for a shelter: kitty litter, toys, pet treats, etc.
Monetary donations are always welcome. They can help pay for spay and neuter programs, which are crucial for controlling the cat population.
Volunteer at your local shelter during kitten season to provide some extra help during this busy time.
Volunteer at an animal shelter
You can also help by volunteering at a shelter during kitten season. Duties may include feeding the animals or cleaning up. And you just might get to play with some adorable animals.
Use your social media influence
If you have just a few minutes, you can still help. Bring kitten season awareness to your followers’ attention on your social media. Encourage others to donate, adopt or foster a cat. Also, share the importance of helping control the feral kitty population by supporting spay and neuter programs.
Discover other ways to help the animal community here →
How to prepare for cat ownership
Ready to bring home your new kitten? Make sure you have all the supplies you need. From the litter box to food and water bowls, the better prepared you are, the sooner your cat can feel at home.
Also, make an appointment with your veterinarian to make sure your new pet is healthy and to keep up-to-date on its vaccinations. If your cat hasn’t been spayed or neutered, schedule that as well.
Adopt a cat this kitten season
From spring to fall, there are more kittens than ever in need of a home. Consider adopting a cat — or two! — this kitten season. You’ll not only be helping a kitty find a loving home, you’ll be adding another member to your family. And if you adopt now, you’ll be relieving the burden on Utah animal shelters, freeing up their resources to help more animals needing a home.
