A Rotating Cast of Community Cats
Over the past few years, I’ve found myself caring for a fluctuating group of community cats—anywhere from six to twelve at any given time. Some were born here, others were likely dropped off. They come and go, but a small core group has stuck around.
A neighbor and I have been working hard to get as many of them spayed and neutered as possible. We’ve managed to help about ten so far, but it’s always a work in progress. Just when we think we’re making headway, some disappear and new ones show up.
A Porch of Their Own
I have a screened porch that used to be a safe haven for my indoor cats. But the outdoor cats had other ideas—they started ripping the screen to come in. After repairing it multiple times (and even building a brand-new porch!), I finally gave up and installed a cat door.
Now they come and go freely, and thankfully, my one remaining indoor cat has no interest in venturing out. It’s worked out pretty well… until I got the surprise of a lifetime.
A Sweet Surprise
One morning a couple of weeks ago, I stepped onto the porch and found this:
A mama cat had brought her kittens onto the porch with the intention, I assume, of raising them right there. It was such a tender, unexpected moment. She kept them there for about a week, and during that time, the kittens started warming up to me. They even enjoyed being petted.
Just when I was starting to get attached, I walked out one morning and saw only one kitten. Then I spotted the mom carrying the other one through the cat door and disappearing under the house. My heart sank.
Other kittens have disappeared before, and I didn’t know if I’d see these again. I wondered if maybe the mom didn’t like them being so friendly, or maybe it was just cooler under the house. Either way, it broke my heart.
The Joy of Their Return
A few days later… they were back.
All of them.
Imagine my joy—well, maybe you can’t, but trust me, I was thrilled.
It’s been a long time since my kitten rescue days in Southern California, and I didn’t realize how much I missed it. Watching these tiny kittens grow, wobble around, and start to play has been a gift.
Little Bonds and Big Hopes
The mama cat is getting more trusting. I still can’t touch her, but she lets me get close, and one of the kittens even runs up to me when I come outside. They’re growing more social by the day—and dare I say it? I might just keep one.
Siamese-type kittens with blue eyes have always been my weakness.
✨ Follow the Kittens’ Adventure!
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