Brisbane, Australia – A young, pregnant tabby cat named Cherish has been given a second chance at life after being rescued from a struggling colony of abandoned felines. Thanks to the efforts of Best Friends Felines and local animal rescuers, Cherish and her seven surviving kittens are now thriving in foster care.
A Desperate Rescue Mission
The cat colony Cherish came from was under the care of a single Good Samaritan, who reached out for help as the situation became overwhelming. Among the cats taken in by Best Friends Felines, Cherish stood out—severely underweight and heavily pregnant at just six months old.
“She was starving and came to us willingly, as if she knew she was finally safe,” a rescuer shared.
From Starvation to Safety
In foster care, Cherish devoured every meal, quickly regaining strength. Provided with a warm nursery, soft blankets, and regular nourishment, she no longer had to fight for survival. Soon after, she went into labor—delivering eight kittens, seven of whom survived.
“Initially, Cherish was overwhelmed caring for so many babies, but within a week, she became a devoted mother,” the rescue organization reported.
A Critical Health Scare
The first week proved challenging—Cherish developed stomach issues, affecting her appetite. With seven hungry kittens relying on her, rescuers grew concerned when the babies began losing weight.
“We rushed her to the vet and started supplemental feedings for the kittens,” a foster carer explained. “Around-the-clock care was needed to ensure everyone stayed healthy.”
The intervention worked: Cherish recovered, and the kittens grew stronger, their tiny legs wiggling with energy.
Kittens Turn into “Minions of Chaos”
Now five weeks old, the litter has entered their mischievous phase—learning to walk, wrestle, and explore. Meanwhile, Cherish enjoys well-deserved breaks, perching out of reach from her rambunctious offspring.
“Daily cleaning is a must—sweeping, mopping, and endless laundry,” the foster team laughed. “But they’re the most social, adorable kittens you’ll ever meet.”
A Bright Future Ahead
Thanks to the rescue, Cherish will never again face life on the streets. After weaning her last litter, she’ll be spayed and adopted into a loving home. As for the kittens, they’ll soon be ready for families of their own—growing up safe, well-fed, and cherished.
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