Have you ever stumbled upon what appears to be an orphaned kitten or an abandoned litter? This time of year it happens all too often, but before you scoop them up and start looking for help, consider that you could be doing more harm than good. Scary, huh?

Let’s face it. Most mama cats are single mothers doing what they can to provide for their families. That means sometimes they have to leave the kids “home alone” while they go in search of food. If that’s the case, rescuing the kittens may not be the best thing for them. Instead, it may be best to leave them where mom can find them and continue to care for them.

So how do you know when to intervene and when to not? The folks at San Diego Humane have put together this awesome infographic you can download, print and share – it’ll help you know what is truly in the best interest of the kittens. It’s an invaluable tool this time of year. We keep copies all around the shelter this time of year, and carry them in our cars and on hikes. You never know when you might need it.