A compassionate individual gave a shelter cat and her kittens a second chance by returning to rescue them a month after first seeing them.

Lori White, a member of ARPO (Alliance for Responsible Pet Ownership), was at a local shelter transporting kittens and dogs when she noticed a mother cat, Marigold, with her newborns.

Lori was immediately drawn to Marigold’s distinctive face and maternal nature. “I always have a soft spot for moms and babies in the shelter,” Lori told Love Meow.

Though her home was already full of fosters, Lori made a silent promise to Marigold, telling her she would return once she had space.

A month later, she kept that promise. Returning to the shelter, Lori found Marigold and her kittens still waiting, confined to the same cage where they had spent their first weeks. By then, the kittens began to walk, but the cage was all they knew.

As soon as Marigold saw Lori, she greeted her eagerly, ready to leave the shelter behind. Lori took the whole family home that day, offering them the needed space and care.

The kittens—Buzz Buzz, Bumble Bee, Shasta Daisy, and Sunflower—were thrilled to have room to play after spending their first month in a kennel.

All except the larger kitten, Bumble Bee, were undersized, weighing about the same as typical three-week-old kittens.

Marigold quickly showed her gratitude for her new, comfortable environment. She purred nonstop and immediately hopped into Lori’s lap, demonstrating how happy she was to have a safe place to raise her babies.

The move to a foster home proved life-changing for the family, but challenges remained. The kittens struggled with digestive issues and parasites, requiring regular care to help them recover.

Lori worked diligently, providing them with supportive care twice a day to ensure they stayed hydrated.

“It helped that Marigold was still nursing them, as they weren’t interested in wet kitten food initially,” Lori explained. Gradually, the kittens improved, showing increased energy and gaining weight.

Through it all, Marigold remained a devoted mother, tending to her kittens and patiently enduring their playful antics. Her unique nursing position—often sticking her tongue out—kept Lori smiling.

Though Marigold weighs just five pounds, she’s slowly gaining strength. Lori and her team are helping her recover, including providing dental care so she can eat comfortably.

“Her sweet and fun personality will make her a wonderful addition to someone’s family once she’s ready for adoption,” Lori shared.

The smallest kitten, Daisy, had initially worried Lori due to her weight loss, but she has since made great progress.

She’s now more energetic and curious, climbing and playing alongside her siblings. Thanks to Lori’s care, this feline family is thriving, and Marigold continues to be a devoted mother, filling her foster home with gentle purrs as she raises her final litter.

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