Community cats often give birth outdoors. Mother cats frequently move their kittens to protect them from predators. During these moves, kittens can become separated. In some cases, something happens to the mother while she is searching for food, leaving the kittens orphaned and unable to survive on their own. 

Because young kittens are extremely fragile, they do not thrive in a shelter environment. They are vulnerable to illness, stress, and developmental setbacks. 

That’s why foster homes are essential. Foster families provide the safe, nurturing environment kittens need to grow strong and healthy until they are ready for adoption.