I've just spent a good deal of time reading most of the threads here that would pertain to my situation, so I appreciate all the wonderful advice and feedback this Board has to offer.
My neighbor has dumped on my porch two 10-week old kittens and a feral mama that lived outside at her client's house. She does home hospice. The grandmother was 91 and her family is "mean" she says and would not help. The grandson wanted to shoot them with the rifle, as he just killed two raccoons. (I will refrain from a dissertation in a civilized society on this item). They all look to be in good shape cosmetically, but I cannot tell what gender the kittens are, and the mother is typical outdoor petite, no more than 5-6 lbs at most. They are adorable kittens.... just rolling with it, not too afraid of all the commotion but the mother is, of course, terrified and hissing.
I moved them to my garage where they have our dog's large crate. I put in litter, food and water. I plan to network them to a foster home or a furever home, but I live in a rural area and getting the word out is hard and the only shelter will euthanize within 24 hrs and I cannot physically, emotionally, mentally, or spiritually be responsible for that. I cannot. So questions:
1. Should I feed dry or wet food?
2. Soil in the box or litter? One of the kittens is asleep in a ball in the litter.
3. Music or just natural, ambient sounds?
4. Separate the mom from the kids if I find a home?
5. Try to find a family with a barn???
I know I sound like an idiot. I have worked in rescue and re-home for years up here with dogs, and rescue with cats, but I have not taken in semi-feral before. Strays have just found me, and stayed and loved me, big difference and we can't take these at all.
I'd appreciate any advice!