How Animals Arrive

Most of the wild animals who come to Cat Tales for rehabilitation arrive here through no fault of their own:

– orphaned due to a parent hit by a car
– displaced by habitat destruction
– injured or sick from environmental hazards or human interference
– well-meaning but misinformed people trying to raise wild babies at home

This year’s raccoon kits (the official name for baby raccoons) were found after their mother was likely scared off during nearby tree removal. With no way to survive on their own, they were brought to us for care.

The Goal: Release Back to the Wild

Whenever we take in wild native species—like raccoons, foxes, coyotes, or bobcats—our goal is the same: get them healthy, strong, and wild enough to return home.

That’s why we limit human contact as much as possible, even when the babies are small and require bottle feeding. The less they imprint on people, the better their chances in the wild.

For these young raccoons, that means:

frequent bottle feedings to start, using special wildlife formulas
temperature-controlled enclosures for warmth and comfort
gradual introduction to climbing, foraging, and natural behaviors
transition to large outdoor enclosures for physical conditioning and “wilding up”

And when they’re ready, they’ll be released in appropriate, protected habitat where they can thrive.

The Work You Don’t Always See

Our rehab team and veterinary partners monitor everything from weight gain to behavior to subtle signs of readiness for release. And all of this happens while the rest of our team is also caring for the resident animals you see on exhibit.

In the early days, the baby raccoons required feedings around the clock, including overnight—our keepers and trained students often take shifts to make this possible.

Now, they’re in the mischief stage—climbing, exploring, and getting into everything they can reach (as any raccoon enthusiast will tell you, this is completely normal!). Watching that transformation is one of the most rewarding parts of the work.

Why We Need You

Wildlife rehabilitation takes time, specialized knowledge, and resources.

Your support helps provide:

formula, medications, and supplements
safe, species-appropriate enclosures
maintenance of outdoor rehab habitats
veterinary care and monitoring
staff and student time for intensive, hands-on care

Rehab isn’t glamorous—and it often happens out of sight. But thanks to supporters like you, we’re able to offer second chances to animals that would otherwise have no hope.

So when you see those sweet baby raccoon faces, know that you are part of their journey back to the wild.
– The Cat Tales Wildlife Center Team

Support Our Wildlife Rehab Work

The post Behind the Scenes: How Wildlife Rehab Happens at Cat Tales appeared first on Cat Tales Wildlife Center.

First: Observe, Don’t Assume

It’s very natural for wild babies to be left alone for periods of time while the mother feeds or avoids drawing attention to them.

Many babies that look “orphaned” are not orphaned at all! Moving them can actually harm their chances of survival.

Signs a Baby May Be Just Fine

Songbirds: Fledglings on the ground are normal! They’re learning to fly, and the parents are usually nearby.

Baby rabbits: Nests are often shallow scrapes in the grass—if the babies look warm, clean, and quiet, mom is probably caring for them when you’re not around.

Raccoons, foxes, and coyotes: Young ones may venture out of dens or tree hollows as they grow. If the baby is not cold, crying, or visibly ill or injured, mom may be nearby.

Fawns: Mothers intentionally leave fawns hidden in tall grass for hours at a time to keep them safe from predators. A quiet, still fawn alone is usually not abandoned.

When to Call for Help

Some situations really do call for human intervention. Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or your local animal control if:

The animal is clearly injured or bleeding
The animal is cold, thin, weak, or covered in flies
The mother has been confirmed dead or unable to return
The baby has been handled or “rescued” and can no longer be safely returned
The animal is in a dangerous area (road, construction zone, neighborhood cat zone)

DO NOT try to care for the animal yourself.

A Few Big “Don’ts”

Don’t feed wild babies. Cow’s milk, human baby formula, or inappropriate foods can cause fatal digestive problems.

Don’t remove the animal unless absolutely necessary. When in doubt—observe from a distance and call a wildlife professional for advice.

Don’t attempt to raise wild animals at home. It is illegal without a permit, and even the best intentions can lead to permanent harm or imprinting that prevents release.

How You Can Help Wildlife

Share this information with friends and neighbors—especially those who love animals and want to help.

Keep dogs and cats away from areas where wildlife may be nesting.

Support your local wildlife rehabilitation centers (like Cat Tales!) so we can be ready when genuine rescues are needed.

And if in doubt—always call a professional before taking action. We’re happy to offer advice!


Springtime is full of life, and nature knows what it’s doing.
Together, with care and good information, we can give wild babies the best chance—whether that means rescue, or letting nature take its course.

Thank you for being a wildlife friend!

– The Cat Tales Wildlife Center Team

The post Think Before You Rescue: A Spring Guide to Baby Wildlife appeared first on Cat Tales Wildlife Center.