When we find a litter of kittens, our instincts tell us to rush to the aid of these fragile felines. Thankfully, human intervention is typically not required. In fact, according to the Arizona Humane Society, the best thing you can do is leave the kittens alone.

Mom will likely return shortly, and it’s critical that the kittens remain in her care as she offers the best chance for survival. If you are extremely certain that the kittens are orphaned, you can then step in and help by caring for the kittens until they’re old enough to find homes.

The Kitten Nursery and Bottle Baby ICU at the Arizona Humane Society is overflowing and AHS does not have space to provide more kittens the care they require. Therefore, AHS has launched a new care-in-place program designed to make it convenient for Good Samaritans to care for newborn kittens in their home. AHS will provide all the necessary tools, including care kits, vaccinations, spay/neuter surgery and training to ensure these little felines get off to a healthy start, and help you find them forever homes when they’re ready.

For more information, visit http://www.azhumane.org/events/dont-kit-nap-kittens or call 602-997-7585.