* Mother's care is essential: The mother cat provides vital care for her kittens, including warmth, nourishment through milk, cleaning, and stimulation to help them urinate and defecate.
* Risk of illness and death: Without their mother, kittens are highly vulnerable to illness and death due to the lack of essential care and antibodies from their mother's milk.
* Stress and trauma: Moving kittens away from their mother can be stressful and traumatic for both the kittens and the mother.
Exceptions:
* Mother is unable to care for kittens: If the mother cat is sick, injured, or neglectful, it may be necessary to intervene. In this case, you would need to find a qualified foster or rescue organization that can provide the necessary care.
* Safety concerns: If the kittens are in a dangerous environment or are in immediate danger, you may need to intervene.
* Vet recommendation: A veterinarian may recommend moving kittens if they have a medical condition that requires special care.
If you find newborn kittens without a mother:
* Contact a local animal shelter or rescue organization: They have the resources and expertise to care for orphaned kittens.
* Do not attempt to care for them yourself unless you have experience: You can provide temporary care (warming, feeding, stimulating) while waiting for help, but it's crucial to get professional assistance.
Remember: If you're unsure about the situation, it's always best to err on the side of caution and contact a professional.