09/25/2026
FAQ Friday: What should I do if I find a kitten?
Kitten season can bring a lot of tiny faces into our community, and we know that finding a kitten can make you want to jump into action. But before you scoop up that kitten and head to the shelter, please stop and call us first.
One of the most important things to know is that finding a kitten and taking custody of a kitten are two different things.
If you find a kitten and your intention is to bring them to Al-Van, please contact us before taking the kitten into your care. Our ability to accept animals depends on our current capacity and the individual animal's needs. We may not be able to take the kitten immediately, and once you take an animal into your care, you are responsible for them while they are in your custody.
A few other important reminders:
🐾 Don't assume a kitten is abandoned. Mom may be nearby and may simply be out looking for food. If the kitten appears warm, healthy and safe, give mom a chance to return and contact us if you're unsure what to do.
🐾 If a kitten is sick or injured and needs immediate medical attention, contact a local veterinarian or emergency veterinary clinic. Al-Van does not have a veterinarian on staff and is not an emergency veterinary facility.
🐾 If we don't have the capacity to accept the kitten, there are other resources to explore. Your local animal control office, other shelters and rescues, local veterinarians, Petfinder, and Google can all help you find organizations in your area.
Most importantly, please call before taking custody if your plan is to bring the animal to us. A quick conversation can help us determine the safest and most appropriate next step for everyone involved.
Kitten season is a community effort, and we're all working toward the same goal: keeping kittens safe and getting them the help they need.
