Brisbane, Australia – When a family moved away weeks ago, they left behind their cat, leaving her to fend for herself. Fortunately, compassionate neighbors stepped in, feeding the stray feline and searching for her owners through local lost-and-found pages. When no one came forward, they took her to a vet, where they discovered she had no microchip—and was pregnant.
Facing their own impending move, the neighbors reached out to Best Friends Felines, a local rescue organization, for help. The group welcomed the expectant mother, naming her Clara, and placed her in a foster home where she could safely deliver her kittens.
A Safe Haven for a Soon-to-Be Mom
Clara settled quickly into her foster home, relishing the soft blankets, constant meals, and affectionate care. “She is super smoochy and loves people,” said Nikki of Best Friends Felines. Volunteers ensured Clara had plenty of food to regain strength before her impending labor, and the grateful cat responded with purrs and affectionate head bumps.
Initially, rescuers believed Clara had another week or two before giving birth—but the cat had other plans. Shortly after arriving at her foster home, she went into labor, delivering six healthy kittens: five girls (May, Avanna, Giuliana, Gail, and Emme) and one boy (Iggy, the lone ginger of the litter).
A Natural-Born Mother
Clara took to motherhood effortlessly, nursing her newborns with calm dedication. “She was so cool, calm, and collected during the birth,” Nikki shared. The attentive mama keeps a watchful eye on her babies, allowing her caregivers to weigh them—but only if they’re promptly returned.
“She chats away every time we enter the room,” Nikki added. “And when she’s had enough cuddles, she gently carries her kittens back to their nest.”
In just one week, the kittens have grown noticeably, their bellies round from constant feeding. Some have even begun opening their eyes, snuggling together in a tiny heap whenever Clara steps away.
A Bright Future Ahead
Thanks to the intervention of her rescuers, Clara will never face another pregnancy—after this litter, she will be spayed and adopted into a loving home. For now, she spends her days doting on her kittens, bathing them in affection, and soaking up sunbeams in her safe, warm haven.
“This is what rescue is all about,” Nikki said. “From abandonment to a second chance—Clara and her babies will know nothing but love from here on out.”
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