Stray Cats/Kittens

Mother cat nursing young kittens

There is a very large population of owned and unowned cats in Garden Grove. Cats and kittens of all sizes and temperaments can thrive in a community. Free-roaming community cats live comfortably in the outdoors, are familiar with their surroundings, and typically are cared for by one or more people. They range from friendly, social loving cats, to feral, unsocialized cats and kittens.

What to do if you find kittens:

Kitten season primarily occurs in the spring and summer, although kittens are born year-round. In order to prevent unnecessary abandonment, please do not disturb or move the kittens. The mother cat will not approach her kittens if you are within close proximity of her nest. As a survival tactic, the mother cat will move her kittens numerous times within the first weeks and may be in the process of moving them to a better suited location. The mother cat will also need to leave the kittens in order to feed or relieve herself. If you have not seen the mother cat within a 24 hour period, contact our office at (714) 741-5565 (Press 1) for further instructions on what to do.

What to do if you find a cat:

Similar to wildlife, cats are considered free roaming animals. If you have found an adult cat who appears healthy, in good condition, and are of healthy weight, they are likely being cared for by one or more people nearby and should not be take to the shelter, do not remove them. Many community cats are being taken care of by someone nearby, and cats who are reported as "missing" actually return home on their own if left undisturbed. If you do not want cats on you property, we recommend that residents take the following steps:

  • Keep trash cans covered at all times
  • Consider motion activated sprinklers or lighting
  • Remove personal pet food dishes immediately after feeding
  • Don’t attract wildlife/cats by feeding them
  • Consider animal repellant products
  • Remove sources of potential shelter (trim bushes, remove boxes, secure sheds and garages, etc)

If you feel that an adult cat or kitten appears sick, injured, or abandoned, please call (714) 741-5565 (Press 1) to speak to a Animal Care representative on what the next steps will be.

For more details about information regarding feral/stray cats, please visit our Return To Field page, or please visit: alleycat.org