Accepted Answer

Hello, XXXXXXXXXXXX.

It's so kind of you to care for, and be concerned about this stray mother and her kittens.

Truthfully, they would be safest indoors, so if the mom trusts you and seems friendly, try placing her in the nesting box first, and then move the kittens in there; gauge her reaction. If she seems upset, let her transfer them back to under the bush, or elsewhere, but watch where she goes. If she's content in there, try bringing them all indoors, out of the elements.

Continue feeding her, as you have been, but make sure it's with a quality KITTEN food, and increase her feedings to 4 times a day, with the fresh water available at all times.

Here are some websites with great info re: newborn kitten care, and even though, thank goodness, the mom IS present, the sites still provide some good information you might need to know, in order to keep the kittens as safe and healthy as possible:

http://www.petcaretips.net/orphaned_kitten_care.html
http://maxshouse.com/kitten_care.htm
http://www.thepetcenter.com/gen/kit.html
http://www.cathelp-online.com/health/kitten1.php
http://www.hdw-inc.com/tinykitten.htm

The mom may go into heat at any time, 48 hours after delivery, even though this is rare and they usually go into heat after the kittens are fully weaned; however, because she's outside and any unneutered male cats can wander in, and/or other 'critters'/predators may try to harm the tiny kittens, indoors is safest for them. 50 degrees and rain, is too cool for them, even with the tarp. If you can make the mom feel comfortable and secure in your home (perhaps in a spare room, enclosed porch, etc.), as long as they're out of the elements, that should be best for them.

I wish you all much good luck, and hope the kittens grow to be healthy and beautiful.

Cher

Expert:	Jessesmom
Pos. Feedback:	99.7 %
Accepts:
Answered:	5/29/2009

Feline Specialist Health/Behavior

Feline Healthcare and Behavior Specialist 40+ years Experience