A Mother’s Love
In the sheltering world, April showers not only bring May flowers – they also bring countless kittens.
Often referred to as ‘kitten season,’ spring and summer in the Northeast produces prodigious numbers of neonatal kittens, one of the highest-risk populations in animal shelters. Our team is committed to helping these vulnerable felines through our foster and adoption programs.
When a kind-hearted individual brought a pregnant cat to Baypath last April, Cat Programs Coordinator Katie Farrell knew the best care included a skilled foster home. After deciding on the name ‘Cricket,’ Katie contacted experienced foster Kara Jewett, who agreed to take Cricket and her soon-to-arrive kittens under her tutelage.
Three days after Cricket arrived at the Jewett’s home, she gave birth to three adorable kittens named Angel, Jasper and Mia. Recognizing how fortunate Cricket was to have a safe and nurturing environment in which to give birth and feeling privileged to be a part of it, Kara’s 8-year-old son renamed the new mama ‘Lucky.’ Kara described fostering Lucky as “such an incredible experience for the entire family.”
Surprise! More Kittens in Need!
A week later, three additional newborn kittens made their way to Baypath. Recognizing they urgently required maternal care, Katie reached out to Kara once more for assistance. A collective sigh of joyful relief was breathed when amazing mother Lucky warmly welcomed Althea, Tails and Sonic into her care, creating a happy blended family!
Going Home
Several weeks later, Lucky and her kittens were officially ready for adoption. Unable to part with all of her charges, Kara and her family adopted Sonic, Tails and Althea. When asked what impact adopting the three kittens has had on their home, Kara replied that “the kittens have added so much love, laughter and joy. We are so grateful they are a part of our family.”
Kara’s parents had also fallen in love with her precious fosters – and chose to make mama Lucky and baby Angel permanent members of their household. Last but definitely not least, black-and-white babies Jasper and Mia likewise did not venture far, securing an adoptive home with Kara’s neighbor!
The seamless collaboration of Katie and Kara, coupled with Lucky’s generous nurturing of all six kittens, beautifully exemplifies a mother’s boundless love.
Please consider fostering kittens! You can play a crucial role in providing a healthy start for these little ones.
If fostering isn’t an option, you can still spoil our furry friends by purchasing treats from the Kitten Shower Wish List.
Are Two Kittens Really Better Than One?
Baypath’s Cat Programs Coordinator Katie shares that adopting two kittens together is often highly encouraged. Other than doubling the cuteness factor, there are many important benefits to welcoming kitten pairs:
Healthy Outcomes
When kittens are left alone for extended periods, they may experience loneliness and depression, leading to unwanted behaviors including inappropriate soiling, excessive grooming and scratching and/or climbing furniture. In many instances, pairing kittens for companionship and social interaction enhances their overall well-being.
If you already have an older cat, introducing two kittens to your home can prevent their high energy from causing frustrations for the senior resident cat.
Bite Inhibition
Kitten behaviors such as biting and scratching can quickly become painful problems resulting in play aggression. When kittens engage in fun and games with one another, they have an opportunity to learn and practice good boundaries.
A ‘Purrfect’ Adjustment
Coupled kittens often adjust more quickly than single kittens to the unfamiliar environment of a new home. With a companion readily available for comfort and entertainment, the playful pair creates a happier environment for each other – and ultimately for you!