Few kitten rescues are as dramatic as that of Matilda, a kitten given CPR after falling down an open drainpipe near Cleveland, Ohio. We previously shared her story, which was all caught on video by the local news station.
Now, we want to give a wonderful update on where this survivor kitten is now after she came back to life.
Video by WKYC Channel 3:
Matilda made a miraculous recovery thanks to many wonderful folks, including Kym and Gary from Kamm’s Cat Guardians, a local TNR (trap, neuter, return) foster group. Gary performed CPR on Matilda after they worked to get her out of the hole, and she woke up crying on the way to the vet. (As a reminder, please cover any open drain pipes or openings on your property that can easily trap kittens and other animals.)
More on the story in our previous article.
Matilda’s Journey Continues
After making such a stunning recovery, Matilda continued to face challenges. Later that month, she required emergency care after she got sick, giving rescuers a scare. Once again, this survivor pulled through but racked up quite a vet bill. Thanks to generous donations, the rescuers could ensure she had the best chance to live a happy life. Soon, she was thriving and growing again.
Back in foster care, she met a new friend named Maverick, the cutest little fellow.
Now, she had the best playmate who could teach her “how to cat,” and the two became wrestling buddies.
“Matilda, the kitten, rescued from the drainpipe, and her little buddy, Maverick, give new meaning to the word ‘playtime!'” shared the rescue.
Images via Facebook/Kamm’s Cat Guardians
“Update on Matilda: Mattie and her best buddy, Maverick, couldn’t be happier or more comfortable in their forever home. We are so happy for our little M&M’s. This is why we keep going and what keeps us going,” shared Kamm’s.
Matilda and Maverick, the M&M’s Find a Forever Home
Now, we have the best part! A kind man named Matt, who has worked with Kamm’s Cat Guardians, adopted both kittens.
He had long been interested in adopting a cat, but one kitten he was interested in sadly died. Another cat named Kit appeared on his porch, but he wanted to remain an outdoor kitty after being fixed.
So, when he saw Matilda on Facebook, he was ready to go for it.
“Kamm’s Cat Guardians posted her story on their Facebook page, and I instantly fell in love with her! She was a tiny, spunky kitty with a new lease on life! Once she cleared a couple early health issues, I knew I wanted to bring her home if she would have me,” he writes Cole and Marmalade.
He decided to bring both bonded kittens home, which is usually the best plan.
“She had bonded with a black cat – Maverick, and the group asked if I would be willing and able to adopt the bonded pair. I scheduled a meeting in person and realized immediately that this dynamic duo could not be split up. They were inseparable! I agreed to adopt them.”
Unfortunately, Matt’s father became ill and passed away around the same time. But, when it was time to bring home Matilda and Maverick, they helped him just when he needed it.
“It’s been just over two months since Dad passed. I still miss him terribly. But the kitties have helped provide love, laughter and companionship during the difficult moments. And each day, they get more comfortable and crazier in my house!”
Meant to Be
Matt says he thinks these Matilda and Maverick were always meant to be part of his life at the right time.
“I believe everything happens for a reason. And we can’t rush time, fate or miracles,” he wrote.
His first and second try at adoption didn’t work out. Then, a kitten brought back to life started a new life with Matt and her little buddy, who isn’t so little anymore.
Was it all meant to be? Well, Matt writes there are some amazing coincidences. We like to think that cats come into our lives for a reason too.
“And the best part? The foster team named Matilda/Mattie before I adopted her. Coincidently, my parents called me Matty since I was little. And up until my Dad passed, he still called me Matty. So now Mattie and Matty are together. And Maverick? Turns out he was born on my birthday. Talk about ‘meant to be!'”
Thanks to Matt for sharing such a wonderful update with everyone, and our condolences about your dad. We hope you enjoy a lifetime of love and happiness with the M&Ms.
Mattie and Maverick sitting in the tree
