Recently, three kittens appeared in a garden, trying to find their way around while searching for food. Unbeknownst to them, their lives were about to change for the better.
Earlier this month, kind-hearted residents discovered the hungry kittens without their mother nearby.
Realizing the kittens were in need, they provided food and water before contacting a local rescue organization.
Volunteers from Kat Zoekt Thuis quickly responded, bringing the trio to safety. “When they arrived to me, they were completely overwhelmed,” shared Anne, a foster volunteer for the rescue, in an interview with Love Meow.
Among the kittens, Napoleon, the black-and-white one, showed the most courage, emerging from his hiding spot drawn by the smell of food.
His siblings, Nova (black) and Nellie (tabby) remained timid, peeking from the shadows of their cozy nook.
“Napoleon quickly made it clear he wasn’t as frightened as the other two,” Anne noted. By the next morning, he eagerly greeted Anne, realizing she was the source of his meals. “He’s a big foodie, devouring his wet food in seconds. I’m so relieved he’ll never go hungry again.”
As time passed, Nova and Nellie gradually gained the confidence to explore their new surroundings.
They cautiously peeked out, attentive to every sound while keeping their bodies hidden. “Their progress is on a completely different timeline compared to Napoleon.”
Being the smallest and shyest, Nellie required extra time and reassurance to feel comfortable. However, when she discovered her favorite treats, she ventured out more.
Nova, initially the most timid, grew bolder and even approached Anne for a sniff, though he sometimes swatted or nibbled her hand if he felt uncertain.
Mealtime became an opportunity for socialization, with Anne gently petting the kittens, fostering positive interactions with humans.
With the help of tasty snacks, Napoleon began to explore outside his nest, joining Anne on the couch, where he would place his paws on her lap as he enjoyed his meals.
“Their love for food is undeniable. When they first arrived, all three were underweight, which stunted their growth and made them smaller than they should be,” Anne explained.
“Now, they are food-obsessed and would eat endlessly if I let them, so I have to carefully manage their portions to help them reach a healthy weight.”
About ten days have passed since the trio came indoors. While Nova and Nellie still have a way to go in their socialization journey, patience and affection are helping them progress.
Nellie’s eyes light up at the sight of treats as she edges closer to Anne each day. Though her trust is building slowly, it’s steadily taking root.
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