Homeward Bound Cat Adoptions – A helpless newborn kitten, later named Hadley, was discovered alone in a yard after her mother moved her littermates—but inexplicably left her behind. Now, thanks to a compassionate rescue team and a nurturing foster cat, the tiny “house panther” is thriving.
A Desperate Rescue
When a couple stumbled upon the days-old kitten, they searched the area for her mother and siblings but found no trace. With no other options, they brought the fragile feline to Homeward Bound Cat Adoptions for urgent care.
“Without intervention, a five-day-old kitten like Hadley wouldn’t survive alone,” the rescue explained. The team immediately provided warmth and supportive care while seeking an experienced foster volunteer.
Round-the-Clock Care
Ellen Richter, a seasoned foster caregiver, stepped in, bottle-feeding Hadley every two hours to keep her alive. But the real breakthrough came when Ellen introduced the orphaned kitten to Liberty, a recently rescued tabby cat.
Liberty had arrived at the shelter pregnant and abandoned. Just days later, she gave birth to six healthy kittens in her foster home. When Hadley—now with her eyes just opening—met Liberty, she instinctively snuggled up to the mother cat, seeking warmth and milk.
A New Feline Family
Liberty welcomed the tiny intruder, cleaning and nursing her alongside her own litter. “I’m thrilled she’s gaining weight,” Ellen said, supplementing Hadley’s feedings to ensure her growth. The once-lonely kitten now dozes contentedly with a full belly, cuddled in Liberty’s embrace.
At two weeks old, Hadley is growing more active and curious. Her adoptive siblings, though puzzled by the miniature “panther,” curiously nudge and observe her. Meanwhile, Hadley has already picked up Liberty’s kneading habit (“making biscuits”) and is strengthening her wobbly legs.
A Bright Future Ahead
With Liberty busy weaning her older kittens, Ellen has taken over full feeding duties for Hadley. But the bond between the kitten and her surrogate mother remains strong.
“Having a cat mom’s milk is invaluable—it’s packed with nutrients for a healthy start,” Ellen noted. Now, with a loving foster family and feline companionship, Hadley’s future looks bright—a far cry from the helpless orphan once left behind in a yard.
Related topics:
