2 tiny kittens, who were abandoned at just a week old, have found a new lease of life after being adopted by a surrogate mother at the RSPCA Isle of Wight branch.
The kittens, named Ember and Lumen, were brought into the care of the charity 2 weeks ago. Without their mother and unable to feed themselves, the pair relied on staff who bottle-fed them every 2 hours, day and night, in a critical effort to keep them alive.
Recognising the need for a more natural upbringing, the team began searching for a nursing cat with kittens of a similar age. Help came from Mount Noddy Animal Centre in West Sussex, which identified a stray cat named Brook who was caring for 3 kittens of her own. Brook and her litter were transported to the Isle of Wight in the hope that she would accept Ember and Lumen.
To help the transition, the kittens were wrapped in Brook’s bedding overnight to take on her scent. The next day, during a routine feed, Ember and Lumen were introduced to Brook – who immediately began nursing them without hesitation.
While her original kittens were briefly confused by the new arrivals, they soon adjusted and now happily share space, food and playtime with their new siblings.
All 5 kittens, along with Brook, are now thriving under the care of staff at the RSPCA Isle of Wight. They are expected to remain at the cattery until they are ready for adoption in around 7 weeks, assuming they continue to grow and stay healthy.
Georgina Davies, Cattery Manager, has said:
“This touching story is a testament to the compassion shown by staff across the RSPCA network. We are deeply grateful to Mount Noddy for working with us to ensure the best possible outcome for this newly blended family.
“The team and I are looking forward to a little more sleep!”
Omg, well done to everyone involved in keeping these adorable kittens alive. You all must love your job, such a lovely story, I hope the kittens find their forever homes soon. X
What a lovely story.