A runty kitten was found huddled in the grass with his siblings. He was much smaller in size.
Debbie Harris, a foster volunteer of Animal Allies in Virginia took in a litter of three kittens found together in a field, hiding in some tall grass. The cat mother never came back for them, but rescuers continued to look for her in the area.
The kittens were just skin and bones and covered in filth and fleas. One of them was much smaller and in the worst condition. His eyes were sealed shut due to an eye infection, but he was hanging in there with all his might.
Despite a rough beginning, their lives were about to change that day.
They got a much-needed bath, lots of food to fill their bellies and a heated bed to sleep on. The kittens perked right up and even started to purr.
"It was touch and go for the tiny gray kitten, which was extremely small and frail. He was lethargic when he arrived, and most likely would not have survived if humans did not intervene," Debbie said.
Debbie kept them warm at all times and gave them a faux cat mama (a plush toy with a beating heart) to snuggle with. They were fed every three hours, given supplements to help strengthen their bodies, and treated for infections.
"It's been a hard battle for the runt. When he arrived, he was in rough shape and the size of a mouse," Debbie said.
The tiny kitty continued to make strides. "It's amazing what a heating pad, good nutrition, medication and a warm bath can do."
In just two weeks, the kittens were nursed back to health. The little gray kitten was still the smallest, but had really filled out, catching up in size with his siblings.
Meanwhile, a rescued barn kitten was in need of a family. Debbie introduced him to the trio and they immediately hit it off. They were named Andy, Opie (gray kitten), Bee and Barney (the barn kitty).
"I can't tell you how happy I am that little Opie has responded so well to my treatment and care. My heart is full and could explode. He loves his heating pad, furry blankets and to be on my lap or be held. He always purrs up a storm and I feel so blessed to be a part of his journey," Debbie said.
"The kittens have gotten so big! Opie is steadily gaining weight and thriving. He loves to climb and tackle his siblings, and he's also the biggest love-bug."
Watch Opie's rescue journey in this video:
All four kittens enjoy nuzzling in Debbie's lap, purring away in a cuddle puddle.
"Since I am the closest thing to their momma, I like to let them snuggle with me and I groom them (with a toothbrush) often as their real mommas would."
"Opie is incredibly lovable, and he lets me know that he adores me. He definitely makes me feel like I am his mommy."
"He was the runt of the litter, and was on the brink of death when I rescued them. And now, he's this big healthy happy boy that you see," Debbie said.
"He had a strong will to live. He enjoys life to the fullest now and he shows his appreciation to me every single day."
"This is what rescue and fostering is all about - It's about providing a temporary safe place to nurture. And then, off they go to their new forever homes.
"I cry happy tears and then I welcome the next litter of kittens that needs my help."
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