After three long years, a cat who came to a rescue as a kitten has finally received what she's been waiting for, just in time for the New Year.
LenaBestFriendsFelines
At eight weeks old, a kitten named Lena arrived at Best Friends Felines, a volunteer-run rescue, hoping for a chance at a better life.
She had been found trapped inside an air-conditioning unit, which had to be dismantled to free her. A foster family quickly stepped forward, so she could have a safe place to land and other kittens her age to socialize with.
"Lena got multiple baths at the vet as she was filthy after being freed from the aircon unit," the rescue shared.
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For the first few days, Lena was understandably overwhelmed by her new surroundings, hissing at unfamiliar faces. After some time to decompress in a quiet playpen, she began to warm up to people.
Once she felt safe, she no longer wanted to be confined, promptly turning the playpen into a hammock-style bed.
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"With some time to settle, she mellowed right out, made friends with her new siblings, and purred for cuddles."
Lena was confident and noticeably more independent than her foster siblings. She often ventured off on her own, exploring the house or seeking out the coziest nap spots. Making new feline friends came naturally to her. She'd roll around with them, playing and wrestling as if they were lifelong companions.
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"Lena shows her appreciation by purring up a storm, but she is an active kitten, so she's soon running off for adventure and fun again. At night, she loves to join one of her foster carers on their bed."
With her bold personality and unmistakable cattitude, everyone expected Lena to be adopted once she was old enough. But days turned into weeks, and weeks stretched into months.
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One by one, Lena watched other foster kittens leave for their forever homes. Still, she carried on with her joyful spirit, playing, exploring, and hoping her turn would come soon.
"Lena isn't just a one-person cat and loves to share the love around, even if that sometimes means visiting all the family members' beds at night or in the morning for cuddles."
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At three years old, Lena had grown into a stunning cat with the perfect blend of sass, sweetness, and affection. She knew exactly what she wanted and was never far from the action, always curious about what her people were up to.
"She might not meow in your face and demand cuddles, but she'll quietly pop up beside you and give a little 'tap tap' on your arm, asking you to make your lap available so she can climb in and purr in happiness."
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By day, Lena raced through the house like a whirlwind, proudly carrying a small toy and announcing her presence to everyone within earshot. By night, she claimed her fosterer's bed and happily shared it with a resident cat.
She adored other cats and enjoyed the company of calm kittens who respected her personal space.
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After spending three New Year's Eves in foster care, Lena hoped this one would be different.
Earlier this month, a family came to visit Lena. Little did she know, her wish was about to come true. Samantha and Dan fell in love with Lena and knew in their hearts she was meant to be theirs.
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After three years of waiting, Lena joined her family just in time to ring in the New Year. In 2026, she will be loved, cherished, and spoiled in her forever home, running the house exactly the way she likes it.
After three years, Lena has found her forever homeBestFriendsFelines
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