We all know that kitten season is a busy time for local shelters. But when a kitten needs extra medical attention they are especially at risk. Every spring our team leaps into action preparing the SAFE Care Clinic and SAFE Haven shelter for an influx of new arrivals. Unlike other local shelters, we have a unique ability to take in kitties who need a little extra TLC.
Our staff found three kittens in need of rescue from a partnering local county shelter. Although we were running low on kitten supplies, our team knew we were their only chance. They were covered in fleas and had severe diarrhea, but even as sick as they were, when they first arrived at SAFE Haven they immediately started nuzzling the medical team and purring. They knew they were in good hands and finally going to be safe. We named the three kittens, Chickadee, Cockatoo and Sandpiper.
Chickadee
Diarrhea can quickly cause dangerous dehydration in kittens, so we needed to address it right away. They were started on medication and a high caloric diet with lots of water. Within a few days, the diarrhea started to improve. Things were starting to look up for these kittens, but little did we know the battle wasn’t quite over.
Cockatoo
After they were sent to foster they soon developed upper respiratory infections and had to return to the clinic. They were started on daily medical treatments. Medical Director Dr. Jennifer started treating them with daily fluids, injectable antibiotics and anti-nausea medications. Once the upper respiratory infections started to improve, they developed more GI complications, as if they hadn’t already experienced enough! The medical team never gave up and continued to treat the kittens until they fully recovered. In just a few weeks, all of their symptoms were resolved, and they were finally ready to live their healthy, normal kitten lives!
Sandpiper
Despite all they had been through, with the medical treatments and illnesses, these three little babies were happy and snuggly the whole time! They greeted us each day with purring and nuzzling our hands! It was a long journey but worth all the hard work to see them happy and healthy now, ready for their forever homes!
Here at SAFE Haven for Cats we have the unique ability to rescue kittens in need of extra care. Help us help kittens like Chickadee, Cockatoo and Sandpiper! Become a monthly donor and help us give cats and kittens the care they deserve!
By Dr. Jennifer Bledsoe-Nix
