With kitten season in full swing, rescuers from Arlington, Virginia, shared pictures of “caring queens” from their full maternity ward. It’s a refreshing spotlight on the mama cats cared for by fosterers, many which will have tried fostering for the first time.
When taking in foster kittens, rescuers always try to keep the mama cat with her babies, giving them the best start in life for many reasons. Having a loving mama leads to well-rounded, healthy kittens which find homes more readily. It also makes it vastly easier for fosterers. Not to mention, it’s adorable to witness and satisfying to provide a safe haven.
Images via Instagram/kittencollege_awla
By early spring, this rescue took in 20 rescued nursing cats with kittens! But, in each case, this would be the cat’s last litter. When it was time, each would be spayed. Then, they could experience a carefree life, possibly for the first time ever.
Often, feral kittens as young as four months old become pregnant and are inexperienced mothers. Sometimes, such young mothers will neglect their litter, especially if malnourished. But when taken into the safety of foster care with ample food and health care, they are generally more likely to care for their babies. Even so, watchful fosterers must be ready to supplement with round-the-clock bottle-feeding if necessary.
Images via Instagram/kittencollege_awla
Kitten Season Maternity Ward
The Animal Welfare League of Arlington’s Kitten College shared these stunning pictures of their most caring queens. Can you imagine playing host for an adorable little family like one of these?
“We currently have over 20 nursing moms in foster homes – that’s more than 20 cats who will never have to raise children again and are on their way to their very own happily ever after! Once their kittens are fully weaned and ready for adoption, these mamas will be spayed and be free to live their best lives,” AWLA shared.
There’s nothing cuter than a kitten, but what about a happy mama cat with her adorable kittens?
While the kittens understandably draw a huge spotlight, gorgeous, friendly mama cats need loving furever homes too. Frequently, a mother bonds with one or more of her kittens and in those cases, you could help them remain together for their lifetimes.
Adopting an adult cat can be the best match for adults with quiet homes. Since they’ve grown out of their wild kitten stage, they won’t overwhelm and can quickly become part of the family. When it comes to kittens, adopting a duo or even trio is actually easier for pet parents. For example, they’ll wrestle with each other instead of your legs!
Please see our previous article for an easy rule about newly-adopted cats’ adjustment period.It may take several months for a cat to feel fully at home.
If you’re interested in fostering or looking for a furry friend or two, check out the AWLA website, Facebook, Instagram, or rescue near you. Many shelters are completely full at the time of this writing, and already low adoption fees may be cheaper than expected.
