They brought in a "feral" cat to help her. She turned out to be an absolute charmer once she began to trust.
NovaAlyssa @orlandofosterkittens
Alyssa, a volunteer with Liberation Cat House, was helping with TNR (trap-neuter-return) efforts for community cats when she learned that one of them needed extra care.
A young gray-and-white cat was severely congested from an upper respiratory infection. She had no appetite and refused medication mixed into her food. Believing she was feral, one of the rescuers put on a protective glove as she attempted to give her the medicine.
"To our surprise, she just started purring," Alyssa told Love Meow.
Alyssa @orlandofosterkittens
Everyone was stunned, including the colony caretaker, who had never been able to get close enough to touch her. With proper treatment and plenty of rest, the cat, named Nova, regained her appetite and began to heal.
"I think she knew she needed help, so she let down her walls."
Alyssa @orlandofosterkittens
"Nova was a little hissy for the first couple of days, but she'd start purring the second you touched her. She just needed a second to remember that humans were safe."
She quickly discovered the comforts of indoor life: soft blankets, warm beds, and nourishing meals. It was a world away from the outdoor conditions she had endured. After a few gentle pets, she would melt into a puddle of purrs, leaning into Alyssa for more affection.
Alyssa @orlandofosterkittens
"Nova and I really bonded through her sickness. She wouldn't have survived much longer without intervention, and I think she could sense that this was her chance at a better life. I can tell she is a very grateful little kitty."
As the infection cleared from her nose and eyes, Nova's beautiful personality began to shine.
Alyssa @orlandofosterkittens
She started greeting her foster mom with full-body stretches, accompanied by a deep, rumbling purr. Whenever Alyssa stroked her back, Nova would turn toward her and stretch out her toes across Alyssa’s hand.
"Now she spends her days making biscuits on soft blankets and eating all the yummy snacks."
Alyssa @orlandofosterkittens
In less than ten days, Nova gained a full pound. Her energy doubled, and her affection seemed to multiply. "Just one week can make a world of difference. It really shows how hard outdoor life is on their little bodies."
Her once flea- and tick-ridden fur transformed into a soft, silky coat that felt like velvet.
Alyssa @orlandofosterkittens
"Her eyes, once crusted shut from infection, are now bold and beautiful. And her once fearful personality is now oozing with sweetness. She greets me at the door with the cutest little chirps of excitement."
With growing confidence, Nova is discovering the joy of play. She chases toy mice and pounces on springs with enthusiasm.
Alyssa @orlandofosterkittens
But her favorite thing in the world is still being loved by her people.
After wandering the streets for so long, Nova seeks affection whenever she can, as if trying to make up for lost time. Alyssa often walks into the room to find Nova purring up a storm, her paws kneading the air as she waits for belly rubs.
Alyssa @orlandofosterkittens
The "feral" cat turned out to be a complete sweetheart with a wonderfully lovable personality.
Today, Nova is known for her happy paws, irresistible doe eyes, and endless appetite for snuggles. Sometimes, all it takes is a little patience and compassion for a hidden gentle soul to shine.
Alyssa @orlandofosterkittens
Share this story with your friends. More on Nova and Alyssa's fosters on Instagram @orlandofosterkittens and Liberation Cat House @liberationcathouse.
Related story: On Her Way Home Woman Finds Chocolate Brown Kitten All Alone, the Young Cat is Tiny but Mighty at Heart
