A family noticed a cat looking for help. Not long after they took her in, she brought kittens into the world.
Lovey Dovey and her kittensEllen Richter
A kind family spotted a long-haired cat wandering the neighborhood. She was heavily pregnant and in need of a safe place to land.
When no one came forward to claim her, the family knew they had to help. While searching for a rescue that could provide long-term support, they created a quiet, comfortable space for the expectant mom. Shortly after being brought inside, the cat went into labor.
They reached out to their local rescue, Homeward Bound Cat Adoptions, and Ellen Richter, a seasoned fosterer, stepped up to help.
Ellen Richter
Ellen prepared a cozy area for the mother cat, named Lovey Dovey, and her three precious kittens. Lovey Dovey was nervous at first, but relaxed once she realized her babies were safe. She curled protectively around them, purring nonstop.
"She's a good mom, taking great care of them," Ellen shared.
Ellen Richter
Before long, Lovey Dovey was happily "making biscuits" and soaking up the warmth and comfort of her blanket-covered pen.
Thanks to her devoted care, the kittens were healthy, well-fed, and squeaky clean. When she stepped away briefly, the little ones piled into a cuddle puddle, keeping each other warm and comforted. As soon as she returned, they lined up neatly along her belly, nursing contentedly.
Ellen Richter
"Lovey Dovey is an excellent mama. She's settling into her foster home, resting, and relaxing while her babies latch, nurse, and snooze like champs."
Now fully trusting her foster mom, Lovey Dovey waits by the door each morning, eager to greet Ellen and demand affection. The moment Ellen sits down, she trots over, cuddling close and asking for head rubs.
Ellen Richter
Just over two weeks old, the kittens' eyes have opened, and they're beginning to discover the world around them. Still unsteady on their feet, they wriggle and wobble as they attempt their first mini adventures.
"They can briefly hold their heads up, and they nurse every two hours before drifting back to sleep."
Ellen Richter
At the slightest peep from her kittens, Lovey Dovey rushes back to their side, grooming them tenderly and making sure all their needs are met. "She is a helicopter mom who comes running at every little sound."
If one kitten strays even a little from the clowder, she gently wraps her paws around them and pulls them back in, showering them with kisses and reassuring purrs.
Ellen Richter
Ellen tried various ways to make the nest feel more "cave-like," hoping to find what the mama preferred.
"She's very protective of her little ones. She's nervous now that they're crawling. I've placed higher walls around the area so they can't crawl out. She prefers keeping them in the carrier instead of the open space."
Ellen Richter
Every day, Lovey Dovey greets Ellen with a long, happy stretch, followed by the sweetest request for snuggles. While she remains fiercely devoted to her kittens, she loves being the center of attention—cherished and pampered.
Thankfully, this will be her last litter. Once the kittens are weaned, she will finally get to enjoy life for herself, playing like a kitten again and focusing on her own needs.
Ellen Richter
Thanks to one simple act of kindness and the compassion of many caring people, Lovey Dovey and her kittens are thriving in foster care and will never again have to worry about where their next meal will come from.
"We're so happy to watch this beautiful little family grow."
Ellen Richter
Share this story with your friends. More on Lovey Dovey, her kittens, and Ellen's fosters on Instagram @foster_kitten_tails and Homeward Bound Cat Adoptions @homewardboundcats.
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