By Isle of Wight Observer
There’s uplifting news from the RSPCA IW branch this week, where staff at the cattery have been hard at work hand rearing two tiny kittens abandoned at just a week old.
Ember and Lumen were brought into the centre two weeks ago, dangerously young and entirely dependent on the dedication of staff, who fed them every two hours around the clock. With their fragile health in mind, the team sought a surrogate feline mother to give them the best chance of survival.
Help came from Mount Noddy Animal Centre in West Sussex, where a stray cat named Brook had recently given birth to three kittens of her own. Brook and her litter were brought to the Isle of Wight, and staff carefully prepared for the delicate introduction.
To help the kittens carry Brook’s scent, Ember and Lumen were wrapped in her bedding overnight. The next day, during a routine feed, they were gently introduced. Brook instantly accepted the tiny newcomers, nursing them as her own without hesitation.
Though her original trio were briefly surprised by the unexpected guests, they soon adapted, and all five kittens are now thriving together under Brook’s attentive care.
Cattery Manager Georgina Davies said: “This story shows the incredible compassion within the RSPCA network. We’re so grateful to Mount Noddy for their support. It’s a beautiful reminder of what teamwork and a mother’s love can achieve.”
Brook and her now expanded litter will remain at the centre until they’re old enough to find their forever homes, likely in about seven weeks.