When we first set out on our “learning journey” to determine how we could make a meaningful difference in the animal welfare space, we thought we had a read on the majority of existing challenges: increased owner surrenders, overcrowded shelters, limited resources, increasing cost of pet ownership, limited access to affordable vet care, etc.
It turns out, however, there was one we missed: kittens.
We’re not just talking about aww-inducing, fluffy, bouncing-off-the-walls kittens (though we’re huge fans of those). We’re talking about kittens — particularly those under eight weeks of age — whose underdeveloped immune systems, dietary needs and high susceptibility to illness and disease require a level of specialized care that most shelters simply are not staffed or equipped to provide.
And if that wasn’t enough, each year shelters experience a massive influx of kittens from spring through fall known as “kitten season.” This places even further strain on shelter staff and resources.
Kittens Became Our Focus
Upon learning of all the challenges, existing gaps in care and high mortality rates, kittens became our focus. One thing we quickly learned is that it was a lot easier to find information and data on puppies, dogs, and cats than it was kittens. And given the challenges associated with caring for kittens, there aren’t many dedicated kitten rescues or nurseries out there.
That said, organizations like Orphan Kitten Club, Arizona Humane Society, Heidi’s Village and San Diego Humane Society have been doing an incredible job to raise awareness of the existing need, while inspiring and enabling individuals like Charlotte and me to join in the effort to make a difference.
Like they say, nothing worth doing is ever easy.
The Reality of the Crisis
It’s no small task though, especially when you consider that:
- 57% of all cats that entered shelters in 2024 were less than 5 months old
- Roughly 1 in 3 kittens under 5 months old passed away in shelters last year
- 43% of kittens 8 weeks or younger passed away unassisted (not euthanized) in shelters
- Neonates require 24-hour care
- The average cost to care for a single kitten is $1,215
But here we are — with a drive and plan to provide the much-needed support to the tiniest, most at-risk lives, during their most critical moments. That’s why we’ve set out to build a space filled with warmth, compassion, and everything needed to give these kittens a fighting chance.
Join Us
But like we’ve said before, we can’t do it alone.
So, if you’re someone who believes that every life matters — no matter how tiny, fragile, or fuzzy — we invite you to be part of this journey with us. Your support, whether it’s a donation, sharing our story, or simply cheering us on, helps bring us that much closer to opening the doors of our dedicated kitten rescue.
Donate today, and together we can create a safe, lifesaving space and loving future for kittens who need it most.
With love and purrs,
Evan & Charlotte
Co-Founders, Two Hearts Kitten Rescue