After many years, a calico cat can finally move on from the rigors of the streets and seek the comfort of a loving home.
Duchess and her kittensLittleWanderersNYC
Not long after Duchess, the cat, was rescued from the streets, she went into labor and gave birth to four kittens, two of which looked like her.
The beautiful calico likely had spent her whole life outside, fending for herself against the elements and other animals, having litter after litter. Once she was secured in a foster home, she realized she could finally relax.
"She was probably born on the street and made it this far, which is amazing," Little Wanderers NYC (an animal rescue) shared.
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Estimated to be eight years old, Duchess showed the early signs of cataracts but didn't let it slow her down. She cradled her babies in the nesting area, catering to their every whim.
Before the kittens' eyes had even opened, Dreamsicle, the ginger boy, possessed the ferocious attitude of a lion cub.
Duchess and the ginger kitten, DreamsicleLittleWanderersNYC
He hissed and spit at unfamiliar scents, an instinct to protect himself in the wild, and let nothing hold him back.
Duchess was loving and protective of her kittens. After having multiple litters outdoors, she was relieved to care for her last litter in the comfort of a foster home. As she warmed up to the cozy indoor life, the wariness in her eyes melted away.
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When the kittens started exploring beyond their nest, Duchess stayed close, guiding them as they discovered their new world.
Little Duchess, named after her mom, was the last kitten to be born and a bit timid around strangers. "Dreamsicle loans her some of his courage. She loves sitting on laps and learning (by observing her siblings)."
Duchess and Little DuchessLittleWanderersNYC
Mama Duchess has a soft spot for her little lookalike and showers her with extra cuddles.
She encourages Little Duchess to go on new adventures and keeps her company when she lounges by the window or in the cubby bed. "(Mama) isn't friendly to people and would prefer not to be bothered. However, she enjoys the company of other cats."
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By watching other kittens zip around with playful antics, Little Duchess's confidence grew. She began batting at toys and chasing sunbeams across the floor.
Dusty, the other calico from the litter, was a whirlwind of mischief and energy from an early age.
DustyLittleWanderersNYC
Dusty tears through the house like a mini tornado, but when it is time to sleep, she flops over, limbs everywhere. She has never met a stranger as she struts around and happily snuggles with anyone who crosses her path.
Little Duchess and DustyLittleWanderersNYC
"Dreamsicle is the only boy of the bunch. He is rambunctious, playful, affectionate, and friendly. He looks out for his sister, Little Duchess."
"Our fourth kitten, Sparky, is the cute odd one out. She was the last to walk but is now the first to explore and play. She is a snuggler and also incredibly playful."
Sparky and DreamsicleLittleWanderersNYC
Duchess is perfectly content staying indoors. While she enjoys her space from people, she is fond of being around other cats and dreams of a home with feline friends where she can feel safe, loved, and free from worry.
"No more babies. Only R & R for Duchess. She deserves a golden retirement from the rigors of the street."
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