ARL says kitten births are surging among outdoor ‘community cats’

Local News

The American Rescue League of Boston said it has taken in 129 kittens in 2024 so far.

The Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) is reminding the public to keep an eye out for stray cats and kittens amid a “drastic” increase in the number of outdoor cats the organization has taken in this year.

“ARL is now seeing dozens of kittens coming through its doors on a weekly basis, and is working diligently to provide medical care, behavioral assessments and placing these animals into homes as quickly as possible,” ARL said in a press release Wednesday.

ARL, which has a dedicated community cat program, said it has taken in 129 kittens so far in 2024, including 62 kittens in May alone. 

“While 2023 was a record intake year with 885 community cats and kittens, 2024 is shaping up to be even busier, particularly in regards to kittens,” ARL wrote in the release. 

The ARL said kittens born outside are “extremely vulnerable” and many don’t survive due to changing weather conditions, predators, and illness, among other threats. 

Cats or kittens are usually found under decks, in basements, woodpiles, and dog houses, or “anywhere a mother cat can provide relative safety and warmth for her offspring,” ARL said.

If an outdoor cat is found, the ARL is advising residents not to move them, but call the ARL Field Service at (617) 426-9170. The organization provides veterinary care to outdoor cats and assesses them for adoption potential.