Four orphaned bobcat kittens cared for at Saratoga facility

Four bobcat kittens are receiving rehabilitation at the Wildlife Care Center in Saratoga, California, after being separated from their mothers. The Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA took custody of the animals, which will remain in their care until an October release date.

The kittens were found in separate locations. Two originated from Kern County following a fall that killed their mother. Another was located in Concord, and the fourth was discovered in Carmel while underweight and suffering from parasites.

Ashley Kinney, who manages the wildlife rehabilitation department for the Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA, stated that the simultaneous arrival of the four cats benefits their development. She noted that keeping them together helps them exhibit natural behaviors as they grow.

Upon arrival, staff focused on medical treatment, including removing fleas and ticks and addressing the parasite infestation. The kittens are now fed a diet of natural meat. Kinney explained that the facility maintains a hands-off approach to ensure the animals remain wild and do not become habituated to humans.

The cats are housed in a large enclosure designed for conditioning. Staff provide enrichment activities to stimulate their minds while they build muscle and practice hunting skills such as pouncing and climbing.

Kinney advised residents who find abandoned kittens to contact their local wildlife facility before intervening. She emphasized the importance of determining whether the mother is nearby and how long the kittens have been vocalizing to avoid unnecessary rescues.

The four bobcats will spend their remaining time at the center developing their survival skills among trees before being returned to the wild in October.

Source: KQED.

Sources

https://www.kqed.org/news/12090256/abandoned-bobcat-kittens-find-a-temporary-home-at-saratoga-wildlife-care-center