What to Do if You Find a Stray Kitten

In South Florida, it’s not uncommon to spot a kitten crouched under a parked car, hanging out near a restaurant dumpster, or darting dangerously close to traffic. Your first instinct may be to scoop them up and rush to safety, but stray kittens are often frightened and will run and hide when approached.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to safely catching and caring for a stray kitten in Fort Lauderdale’s warm and busy environment.

Assess the Situation Carefully

Before rushing in, take a moment to evaluate:

• Is the kitten in immediate danger (near traffic, predators, in extreme heat or an approaching storm)? If so, you’ll need to act quickly.

• If the kitten is in a relatively safe area, observe from a distance for 30 to 60 minutes to see if the mother cat returns. Mother cats often leave their kittens for short periods to find food.

• If the kitten appears clean, quiet, and calm, mom is possibly nearby.

• If the kitten is dirty, thin, crying loudly, or in a dangerous location, intervention is necessary.

If you move the kitten for their safety, keep them nearby and monitor for the mother’s return. If she doesn’t return within a reasonable time, the kitten may truly be orphaned.

How to Safely Catch a Stray Kitten

Stray kittens are often skittish and may hide under cars, bushes, or debris. Use patience and these tips to catch them safely:

• Approach slowly and calmly. Avoid sudden movements or loud noises.

• Use food to lure them. Smelly foods like tuna, sardines, or wet cat food can coax a hungry kitten out of hiding. Place the food a few feet away and gradually move it closer as the kitten starts eating.

• Talk softly. A gentle voice can be reassuring.

• Use a towel or blanket. Once the kitten is within reach, you can gently scoop them up using a towel to prevent scratching and biting.

If the kitten runs and hides:

• Place a carrier or box with food inside near their hiding spot and step away. They may wander in on their own.

• For very difficult situations, consider borrowing a humane trap from a local rescue group or TNR program.

Transporting the Kitten

Once you’ve caught the kitten, place them in a secure, well-ventilated carrier or box for transport. Avoid using open containers or trying to hold them in your arms—frightened kittens can claw, bite, or escape.

Line the carrier or box with a soft towel or blanket to keep the kitten comfortable.

Setting Up a Safe Space at Home

When you bring the kitten home, it’s essential to create a safe, quiet environment:

• Keep the kitten separate from your pets. This prevents stress and reduces the risk of spreading fleas, parasites, or contagious illnesses.

• Choose a small room like a bathroom or laundry room.

• Set up a cozy spot. Provide a soft bed or towel-lined box in a warm, draft-free corner.

Important: Kittens are small and can squeeze into surprisingly tight spaces. Before leaving the kitten alone, block off any openings they might crawl into—such as behind toilets, under cabinets, inside furniture, or into closets. A scared kitten will look for dark, small spots to hide, and some may be difficult or dangerous to retrieve them from.

• Provide food, water, and a litter box. Use a shallow box for easy access. For very young kittens, you may need to feed them kitten formula (KMR – Kitten Milk Replacer), possibly with a bottle or syringe.

Determine the Kitten’s Age and Feeding Needs

Knowing the kitten’s age will help you provide the right care:

• 0–4 weeks old:

  • Eyes may still be closed (0–10 days) or just starting to open.

  • Needs bottle feeding with KMR every 2–4 hours, including overnight.

  • Cannot regulate body temperature—keep them warm with a heating pad set on low under a towel.

• 4–5 weeks old:

  • Beginning to explore and can try gruel (a mix of KMR and wet kitten food).

  • Still requires formula until fully weaned.

• 5–8 weeks old:

  • Can eat wet kitten food and begin nibbling moistened dry kitten kibble. Provide fresh water at all times.

If you’re unsure about the kitten’s age or needs, take a clear photo and seek advice from a veterinarian or local rescue.

Contact Local Resources

Rescues and shelters in Broward County are often overwhelmed, but they can still offer valuable advice:

• Call a veterinarian for immediate concerns like injuries, illness, or severe flea infestations.

• Reach out to a rescue group or TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) program for guidance. Even if they can’t take the kitten, they may connect you with fosters or loan supplies.

• Post in local Facebook groups such as South Florida Animal Rescue Network or Lost and Found Pets Broward. Many experienced fosters monitor these groups and can offer support or take in the kitten.

What Not to Do

• Do not chase or grab at a frightened kitten—it can cause injury or drive them into a more dangerous location.

• Do not use

  flea treatments unless directed by a vet. Most are toxic to kittens under 8 weeks old.

• Avoid feeding cow’s milk, as it can cause severe digestive upset.

• Keep the kitten away from your own pets until they’ve been seen by a veterinarian.

A Little Care Makes a Big Difference

Helping a stray kitten isn’t always easy, but with patience and the right approach, you can give them the best chance at a safe, healthy future. Whether you foster them yourself or connect with local resources, your quick action can save a life.