When a calico cat and her four newborn kittens arrived at a crowded animal shelter shortly after birth, staff knew the stressful environment could jeopardize their health. They reached out for immediate foster assistance—and found the perfect haven with Ashley, director of Liberation Cat House.
A Safe Space to Heal and Grow
Nervous but fiercely protective, the mother cat, named Regina, shielded her kittens during the car ride to Ashley’s home. “Stress can cause nursing mothers to reject their babies, and shelter exposure raises infection risks for fragile kittens,” Ashley told Love Meow. But as soon as Regina entered a quiet, cozy room, her tension melted away.
“She explored, realized she was safe, and started purring and kneading the blanket,” Ashley recalled. “You could see her relief.”
The Kittens’ Unique Personalities
Regina’s litter includes two calico daughters—Cady (the largest) and Gretchen (the tiny runt)—plus two energetic brothers: ginger Damien and tuxedo Aaron. In the calm of foster care, Regina grew more relaxed, taking breaks to eat and rest instead of constantly guarding her babies.
Ashley monitors their weights daily, providing supplemental feedings for Gretchen, who weighs just 110 grams compared to her siblings’ 200+ grams. “She’s a fighter,” Ashley said. Regina remains devoted, rushing back if a kitten cries and letting Gretchen nurse extra often.
A Mother’s Love—and Quirks
Regina’s affectionate nature shines as she grooms her kittens, nuzzles them with head-butts, and fills the room with purrs. “She trills greetings when I enter and loves pets while nursing,” Ashley shared. The savvy mom also enjoys drinking from the faucet and lounging in the sink for “me-time.”
A Brighter Future Ahead
Now thriving, Regina and her kittens await adoption. “This will be her last litter,” Ashley emphasized. “She deserves a loving home where she can finally just be a cat.”
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