A cat began to trust when a kind stranger gave her and her kittens a fresh start, making their world much brighter.
Deej
Earlier this month, a Good Samaritan found a young cat in his garage with a litter of tiny newborn kittens.
He immediately rushed them to a nearby shelter for help. Once there, volunteers noticed one kitten had a leg deformity and promptly contacted Inked Kittens Club (a cat rescue) for assistance.
"They asked if we could take them in, and even though we have been pretty occupied with kitten care the last two weeks, I said of course," Deej, cofounder of Inked Kittens Club, shared with Love Meow.
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With the help of a transport volunteer, Holly, this family of four was safely delivered to Deej within the hour.
"Upon intake, we realized our little momma was only about 6-7 months old, and her kittens were on the preemie side. She was petrified and did not want to do much for mothering at that time."
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The timid cat remained in the carrier, keeping her head down while her kittens nursed. Despite her fear, she accepted a treat and even allowed her foster mom to gently pet her.
With some reassurance, she began to relax, kneading her blanket for comfort.
Deej
Deej prepared a cozy "hidey bed" for the little family. Within 24 hours, the cat felt safe enough to fully relax, stretching her limbs into the air and purring contentedly with her kittens.
"Once we got her set up in a safe, private space, she started to come out of her shell and be on the more affectionate side."
Deej
Whenever Deej entered the room, she would roll onto her back, nudging her little ones, purring, and making "biscuits."
"One week into her care, she finally willingly took her first steps out of her nesting box to come snuggle with me in the daylight. That was the moment I realized that we've finally made some substantial progress."
Deej
"It was such a wave of relief that she finally trusted me enough to come up to me on her own."
In two weeks, the kittens have reached several milestones, all under their mom's devoted care. "Their mom is the sweetest little thing and has really started showing her personality during our feedings. She loves belly rubs and a good ear stritch; air-baking is her favorite pastime."
Deej
The kittens have opened their eyes, taking in the world around them. Their bellies are plump, and they grow stronger and more active each day. With extra room, they have started waddling around, building up their leg strength.
"The leg deformity has been improving on the tiniest guy."
Deej
The sweet mama has come a long way from the day she was found in the garage with her newborns. Thankfully, this will be her last litter.
Now, she relishes her indoor life with her kittens climbing all over her while she fills the room with soothing purrs. "She adores her babies and is always so proud to show them off. She bakes her little biscuits anytime she sees me and loves spending time lounging in my lap."
Deej
Thanks to Deej and her dedicated team of volunteers, this little family is set for a bright future.
Once the kittens are ready to venture out on their own, their mom will get to enjoy being a cat again, surrounded by all the love and pampering she deserves.
Deej
Share this story with your friends. More on the feline family and Deej's fosters on Instagram and Inked Kittens Club on Instagram.
Related story: They Come to an Animal Shelter for a Kitten but Know They Have to Take His Mother Cat with Them too