Even though we are approaching the end of Kitten Season (visit http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/cats/facts/kitten_season.html for details), there are still tons of homeless felines struggling to survive. This means that it isn't uncommon to see cats of all ages meandering through parking lots, along curbs, and even behind (or in!) buildings. Many cat-lovers, and kind people in general, feel the need to scoop all of the babies up, take them home, and cuddle them forever! :D
Unfortunately, there is much more to taking in the furballs than a trip home and hug therapy. This brings us to my simple yet costly 'adoption' advice.
First of all, it's important to know what you're dealing with. The number of kittens and whether or not the mother is present are two key factors to make note of. You don't want to grab a handful of two or three little darlings and end up leaving any littermates or their mommy behind. If the mother is with the kittens, it's important to get her as well, not only for the sake of the dear getting a nice home but also so that she can be spayed, which will be a small yet important step in reducing the amount of abandoned and stray cats in the area.
Secondly, once you know what you've got on your hands, you need to actually get the animals. Some cases are much easier to deal with than others. For instance, when I got my three darlings, it took some slivers of Zaxby's chicken (I do NOT condone giving kittens or any animal excessive scraps. In fact, it is best to not introduce our food to them, as it can cause health issues. I only used chicken to lure them and feed them due to their hungry state.) and wrangling in the bushes on the curb to get all three in a homely box, which the Zaxby's staff so kindly provided. However, some situations call for gradual coaxing and even trapping. Whatever method is required, be patient and don't do anything that could harm the animal(s). Notify a professional if needed.
One of the major tasks of rescuing any animal is taking them to a veterinarian ASAP! You never know what an animal could be carrying, and this includes worms, rabies, and other diseases such as Feline Leukemia that could affect any other pets in the household. Plus, it is always important to give the animal the required shots and medications needed to protect it from ailments, past, present, and future. I strongly encourage spaying or neutering as soon as it is an acceptable time for the animal, as this reduces overpopulation, homeless creatures, and improves the overall behavior of the animal, as I'd suspect that a male's spraying and a female's pregnancy are two undesirable traits in a pet.
Finally, after you have tended to the health of the animal, you must provide a good environment, even if you are simply fostering. A good bed, nourishing food, a steady supply of water, and a place to relieve itself are all necessities. (For inside care, visit http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/cats/tips/cat_happy_indoors.html for more info. Outside cats are very similar, though they don't need as many pleasantries. ) Always pay attention to your pet's behavior and actions, as it is your responsibility and privilege to care for such a creature. :)
Unfortunately, there is much more to taking in the furballs than a trip home and hug therapy. This brings us to my simple yet costly 'adoption' advice.
First of all, it's important to know what you're dealing with. The number of kittens and whether or not the mother is present are two key factors to make note of. You don't want to grab a handful of two or three little darlings and end up leaving any littermates or their mommy behind. If the mother is with the kittens, it's important to get her as well, not only for the sake of the dear getting a nice home but also so that she can be spayed, which will be a small yet important step in reducing the amount of abandoned and stray cats in the area.
Secondly, once you know what you've got on your hands, you need to actually get the animals. Some cases are much easier to deal with than others. For instance, when I got my three darlings, it took some slivers of Zaxby's chicken (I do NOT condone giving kittens or any animal excessive scraps. In fact, it is best to not introduce our food to them, as it can cause health issues. I only used chicken to lure them and feed them due to their hungry state.) and wrangling in the bushes on the curb to get all three in a homely box, which the Zaxby's staff so kindly provided. However, some situations call for gradual coaxing and even trapping. Whatever method is required, be patient and don't do anything that could harm the animal(s). Notify a professional if needed.
One of the major tasks of rescuing any animal is taking them to a veterinarian ASAP! You never know what an animal could be carrying, and this includes worms, rabies, and other diseases such as Feline Leukemia that could affect any other pets in the household. Plus, it is always important to give the animal the required shots and medications needed to protect it from ailments, past, present, and future. I strongly encourage spaying or neutering as soon as it is an acceptable time for the animal, as this reduces overpopulation, homeless creatures, and improves the overall behavior of the animal, as I'd suspect that a male's spraying and a female's pregnancy are two undesirable traits in a pet.
Finally, after you have tended to the health of the animal, you must provide a good environment, even if you are simply fostering. A good bed, nourishing food, a steady supply of water, and a place to relieve itself are all necessities. (For inside care, visit http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/cats/tips/cat_happy_indoors.html for more info. Outside cats are very similar, though they don't need as many pleasantries. ) Always pay attention to your pet's behavior and actions, as it is your responsibility and privilege to care for such a creature. :)