LOS ANGELES — Just one day after arriving at an animal shelter, a pregnant calico cat named Garden gave birth to six kittens—but this time, she wouldn’t have to raise them alone.
Best Friends Animal Society in Los Angeles quickly arranged foster care for the feline family, ensuring Garden and her newborns had a quiet, nurturing environment.
A Mother’s Relief
Garden, described as sweet and trusting from the start, adjusted quickly to her foster home. “She let me pet and brush her right away,” said Jan, her foster mom, in an interview with Love Meow. Free from the stress of the shelter, the attentive calico focused on caring for her six kittens—Glisten, Glimmer, Glow, Geranium, Golden Poppy, and Grove.
Jan monitored the newborns closely, weighing them daily to ensure proper growth. “By the second day, Garden was comfortable with me handling them,” she said. All six kittens thrived, a testament to their mother’s dedication.
A Helping Hand
Raising six kittens is no small task, but Garden welcomed assistance. When she needed a break, she sought affection from Jan, who also helped with cleaning duties. “Six babies are a lot of mouths to feed, but Garden doesn’t seem to mind,” Jan said. “I don’t mind helping—she appreciates the support.”
The kittens hit milestones quickly. Golden Poppy, a sleek black kitten, was the first to open his eyes at just a few days old—earlier than typical for his age. Soon, his siblings followed, peering at the world for the first time.
Growing Strong
Now three weeks old, the litter has transformed into energetic, roly-poly bundles. They’re gaining mobility, testing their legs, and showing curiosity about their surroundings. Glimmer, the smallest, compensates with a big voice, often claiming the best nursing spot.
Garden remains a patient and devoted mother, even as her kittens climb over her during mealtime. “She’ll make a wonderful companion once her nursing duties are over,” Jan noted.
A Call for Foster Volunteers
Reflecting on the experience, Jan encouraged others to consider fostering. “Garden and her kittens have been one of my easiest fosters in five years,” she said. “The mom does most of the work—we just provide love and support.”
Thanks to the efforts of Best Friends Animal Society and compassionate fosters like Jan, Garden’s family has a bright future ahead.
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