A question for the feral experts...dilemma!

Ever since I trapped three kittens last year, I have been wanting to trap the mama, at least for a spay. I even promised her that I would be back for her, and I was. However, she disappeared immediately after I got the kittens. Every now and then I'd hear that "maybe" she was spotted, so I'd go over for a few days, but never saw her again. She's now (confirmed) back, and is very pregnant (I've heard this before, but they were false alarms...this time they saw her for sure).

Now for the dilemma. I am currently fostering a 15 week(ish) male kitten, and two 8 month old males. One is neutered, and is going to be placed next week...no problem. The vet heard a heart murmur on the other, and he has a second opinion appt. today, and possibly to see a cardiologist, so he didn't get neutered as planned. I called the woman I am fostering for, and told her that I really needed to trap mama, and could she try finding another foster for the kittens. She's telling me it's okay to mix these kittens with a feral pregnant cat. My gut is telling me no! I'm afraid that she will be so stressed out by the others (does a trapped feral need more stress?). I'm also afraid she may hurt them as an instinct to protect her babies, especially an unneutered male. I only have one room for all these guys. I don't think it's a good idea. At all. I thought I'd put the question to you all. I've been trying to get mama for months now, and I feel strongly this is my chance. I'm torn!

Just so you know, the kits I have now would never end up at a shelter or anything that dire...I wouldn't let that happen.

If you have a way to keep the mom away from the others, a large dog crate or cage, and I do mean large, or an old wooden playpen you can flip upside down- just something to keep her away from the others, then go for it.

Originally Posted by hissy

If you have a way to keep the mom away from the others, a large dog crate or cage, and I do mean large, or an old wooden playpen you can flip upside down- just something to keep her away from the others, then go for it.

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I do have a dog crate, but it's only about 4' X 2' (guessing). I doubt that's what you had in mind. I'll have to put my thinking cap on. Thanks for the quick reply & advice!