Many cats, including stray and feral cats, go into heat and give birth during the warmer months. Known as Kitten Season, shelters like the HSVC are flooded with litters of young kittens during this time of year. Kittens are often found unattended in streets, yards, or neighborhood areas. While it may seem like these fur babies have been orphaned, most kittens have not actually been abandoned by their mothers. It is more likely that their mother is out getting food or even hiding close by.