When volunteers at Alley Cat Rescue heard about a mother cat and her five kittens who urgently needed shelter they acted immediately. The cat called Snowpea (also known as Marian) was tired & too thin but she still did everything possible for her kittens.


She protected them and kept them warm and fed even though she was hungry & had almost no strength remaining. Snowpea required help just as much as her kittens did.
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As the kittens grew stronger they started waddling around the nest and wanted to explore everything nearby. Whenever they made even the smallest squeak Snowpea hurried over to them and gave them lots of affection.

Soon the foster family noticed that Snowpea was suffering from mastitis. This painful condition made nursing extremely difficult. Still she pushed through the discomfort and continued caring for her kittens as best she could.

Many cats who give birth outdoors end up in this condition. This happens especially when they have litter after litter and most do according to Alley Catย Rescue.

The team started bottle-feeding the kittens so Snowpea could focus on getting better. She was extremely thin when they found her. The rescuers took charge of feeding duties while Snowpea got antibiotics and nutritious high-calorie meals to help her recover.

Despite needing rest & medical attention Snowpea refused to stop being a mother to her babies. She made sure to groom each kitten carefully after they finishedย eating.
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The smaller kittens got extra meals so they could catch up with their siblings. Before long they became plump & active as they wandered beyond the nest with increasing confidence. Snowpea appeared relieved by the support and could finally rest and regain her strength. When a mother cat has this many kittens she needs plenty of human help.

Once the kittens were fully weaned Snowpea could finally focus on herself & enjoy some well-earned rest. Raising five kittens is hard work for a cat with such a small body.

The kittens’ baby blue eyes began to shift in color and their fur became thicker and fluffier. Protected from street dangers they would never need to worry about finding their next meal again. “This is why we work hard together to keep them safe through rescue & fostering & to prevent suffering by spaying and neutering.”

Snowpea has grown healthy & strong after being a tired and thin mother cat. She became even more beautiful than anyone had imagined. Following several months with a foster family she has moved into her permanent home where she receives all the love & attention she deserves.
She now brings joy to her new family with her soft fluffy coat and her sweet little meow.
