In a tale of survival and hope, a tiny orange kitten defied the odds after being left behind without food, water, or care. His story is a heartwarming reminder of resilience and compassion.
After his family was forced to move due to eviction, the kitten’s mother and siblings were rehomed. But in the chaos, the smallest of the litter was forgotten. Alone and starving, he had no one to care for him.
Thankfully, a few kind-hearted people noticed the tiny orphaned kitten struggling to survive. They quickly contacted Emilie Rackovan, a dedicated animal rescuer based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Though the call came late at night, Emilie didn’t hesitate.
Within just 30 minutes, Emilie had the kitten—whom she named Eggnog—safe in her arms. The moment she saw him, her heart broke.
“I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I was still shocked by his appearance. He was cold, thin, unkempt, infested with fleas, and had thick discharge coming from his nose and eyes,” Emilie shared.
The Journey of Recovery Begins
During the car ride to his new home, Eggnog cried out with all the strength he could muster. It was clear he was exhausted and scared. But everything changed the moment Emilie gave him his first bottle.
As he drank the warm formula, he instantly calmed down, realizing he was finally safe. Emilie cleaned him up, treated his fleas, and began the road to healing.
From that point on, Eggnog never missed another meal. With each passing day, his breathing improved, his energy returned, and his tiny body began to grow stronger.
A Growing Spirit
Two weeks later, Eggnog started eating soft food on his own. But in true baby fashion, he still enjoyed his bottle feedings.
“Eggnog would like everyone to know that even though he is fully weaned and has been for a little while, he’s still very much a baby,” Emilie joked in a video.
As he grew healthier, Eggnog was introduced to the household’s resident cats. They helped him learn how to be a cat and brought out his playful personality. But whenever Emilie walked in with treats, Eggnog would drop everything to run to her side.
A New Chapter
The transformation was incredible. Emilie beamed with pride:
“He went from starving, weak, lethargic, and infested with fleas to chonky, healthy, and thriving.”
And then came the best part—Eggnog found his forever home. He was adopted by a loving family and even gained a new kitten sister, Nala.
While saying goodbye to a foster pet is never easy, Emilie feels immense joy each time one finds a permanent home.
“Whenever people say, ‘Adopting out your fosters must be so hard,’ I think… not really when you get to send them to a wonderful home!”
Eggnog’s journey from an orphaned kitten to a cherished pet is nothing short of inspiring. It’s a beautiful reminder that love, care, and second chances can transform lives.