A 4-week-old kitten arrived at SpokAnimal with severely infected eyes beyond recovery. Urgently, he was transported to the Animal Emergency Clinic for an enucleation procedure.
Performing such surgery on a kitten of his size was no small feat. Although he emerged with stitches, this resilient little one did not let them deter his spirit. It was Jamie Myers, a devoted SpokAnimal volunteer, who offered to provide foster care for the kitten, ensuring he could heal in a nurturing and affectionate environment.
From the very moment Jamie set her eyes on the kitten, she was captivated. “He instantly became my entire world,” Jamie shared with Love Meow.
This affectionate kitten, now named Stevie, was initially somewhat reserved and shy during the first couple of days. “He showed little interest in eating or drinking, so I had to syringe-feed him to ensure he stayed hydrated.”
However, by the third day, Stevie’s appetite improved, and he started seeking attention and cuddles, his newfound strength shining through.
“I carry him in a baby carrier on my chest so that he can be close to me whenever he wants to rest. His level of trust in me is truly incredible,” Jamie added.
“He wanted to live, and I ensured he had every opportunity once he was in my care.”
Stevie’s voracious appetite returned, thanks to his favorite mix of food, and he made significant progress. “I went from weighing him on my gram scale four times a day to not at all.”
As Stevie grew more playful and inquisitive, he relied on his other senses to navigate his surroundings. “He’s unafraid to venture out of his comfort zone, happily exploring any area we place him in.”
Once introduced to three other foster companions and a resident cat named Prince Waffles, Stevie quickly realized that he could follow their lead to explore the world around him.
With growing confidence in his surroundings, Stevie’s spirited side shone through. He’d pounce on noisy toys, engage in play battles with plushies larger than himself, and even perch on Jamie’s shoulders for a break between play sessions.
“He can hear and sense the location of toys and eagerly pursues them. Attacking my toes is one of his favorite pastimes, along with playing with his noisy birdy toy.”
Stevie adored all the feline friends he encountered, but one of them held a special place in his heart.
Waffles, one of the resident cats, took an immediate liking to the blind kitten. He allowed Stevie to cuddle up beside him, seeking comfort in his fur. Their connection deepened rapidly, making them kindred spirits.
After an energetic playtime, Stevie would seek out Waffles for a nap. Being close to him or pressing his face against Waffles’ soft coat filled him with joy.
In no time, Stevie had firmly nestled his way into the hearts of the entire family, and separating him from his best friend became inconceivable. “From the moment I laid eyes on him, I knew we were his forever family,” Jamie professed to Love Meow.
“The incredible folks at SpokAnimal gave him the gift of life. They are the true heroes in his story.”
Just three days ago, Stevie was finally free of stitches. He climbed onto his mom’s shoulders, whispering and purring into her ears, as if to express his gratitude for the life-changing transformation she had brought into his world.
Waffles remained Stevie’s most fervent supporter, and their bond was destined to last a lifetime. They played, cuddled, and rested together in their cozy bed, the perfect duo.
Waffles had become Stevie’s biggest cheerleader, and they would remain brothers for life. Playing, snuggling, and resting together, they had found the perfect companionship.
