Two vulnerable kittens, Cheddar and Brie, got a second chance at life when a dedicated foster volunteer stepped in to provide the care they desperately needed.
The ginger (Cheddar) and uniquely colored (Brie) siblings arrived at a municipal shelter at just two weeks old, frail and in need of round-the-clock attention. Shelter life posed risks for the fragile pair, but their fortunes changed when Jen, a foster volunteer with Kitty of Angels, answered the call for help.
“I immediately said I could take them,” Jen told Love Meow.
A Rough Start Turns Brighter
Upon arrival in Jen’s care, the kittens showed signs of illness—Cheddar had a crusty eye, and both were sneezing. But nestled in a warm incubator with a heartbeat plush toy, they quickly adjusted.
“Brie latched onto the bottle right away. Cheddar was a little confused at first, but he caught on after a few feeds,” Jen said.
To mimic a mother cat’s grooming, Jen used a toothbrush to gently brush them after each feeding—a trick that soothed the kittens and encouraged self-grooming instincts.
Personalities Shine Through
As their health improved, their distinct personalities emerged.
Cheddar, the spirited orange tabby, embraced life at full throttle. “He plays hard, purrs hard, and cuddles hard,” Jen said. His loud purring during meals became a signature trait.
Brie, the more delicate of the two, craved affection. “She hops onto my shoulder and plays with my hair—she’d stay there all day if she could.”
Though inseparable, the siblings had one minor rivalry: bottle time. Brie, always eager, would occasionally wrap a paw around Cheddar as if to claim the bottle for herself.
Growing Stronger Every Day
Soon, the duo graduated from their incubator to a spacious playpen, where they practiced walking, built strength, and learned litter box skills.
Jen recalled their first moments exploring: “They were a little surprised but so brave.” Cheddar, initially hesitant, quickly gained confidence with Brie by his side.
Now thriving, the pair spends their days climbing on Jen like a “human cat tree,” wrestling, and competing for lap snuggles.
With their foster mom’s love and care, Cheddar and Brie’s once-uncertain future is now filled with warmth, play, and endless affection.
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