Kitten is Much Tinier Than Other Cats But Shows the Spirit of a Tiger, Months Later, She Truly Transforms

A kitten was much tinier than other cats her age, but she showed the spirit of a tiger. Months later, she truly transformed.

Bedhead@catsofnewbern

Last summer, a mother cat and her seven kittens were brought to Craven Pamlico Animal Services, in need of a second chance.

Michele, who manages the kitten foster program, quickly arranged a foster home for the family. They were all battling stomach issues. While the mother and five of the kittens began to heal, the two smallest babies struggled to grow.

At five weeks old, they were no bigger than typical two-week-old kittens. Realizing they needed specialized care, Michele stepped in to help.

@catsofnewbern

The tiny tabby with white mittens survived, but sadly, her sister lost her fight despite Michele's tireless efforts. The little survivor was named Bedhead, inspired by her perpetually wild, untamable fur. Though she was impossibly small, Bedhead showed a fierce will to live and a spirit far bigger than her body.

Michele wasn't giving up, and neither was Bedhead.

Michele @enckittennursery

"Over the next week, she finally started eating canned food regularly," Michele told Love Meow.

After several rounds of medication, Bedhead's stomach issues began to resolve. With each passing day, she gained a bit more weight and strength. Just when it seemed she had finally turned a corner, another challenge emerged.

Michele @enckittennursery

Bedhead developed ringworm, a skin infection that required weeks of medicated baths and oral medication. "She seemed to lose all of her fur overnight. Her fur was gone, but her bedhead never fell out."

She responded well to treatment, and slowly, her fur grew back in a blend of new shades. With renewed energy, she found her voice, becoming more chatty and curious about the world around her.

Michele @enckittennursery

"We went through six weeks of ringworm treatment. She was gaining weight and finally hitting milestones. It was then I knew she'd be okay."

Even after fully recovering, Bedhead remained petite. She met other foster kittens who were half her age and twice her size. By early January, she filled out beautifully for her small frame.

Michele @enckittennursery

The former runt of the litter blossomed into a proper teenage kitten, full of boisterous energy and wrapped in a soft, gleaming coat. Friendly with every cat she met, she carried herself with unmistakable confidence.

She befriended Glacier, another foster kitten, sharing toys and showing her the ropes. Though Bedhead was two months older, the two were nearly the same size.

Bedhead and GlacierMichele @enckittennursery

By five months old, Bedhead had grown into a stunning young cat, with a bushy tail that never failed to draw admiration. When she was finally ready for adoption, Michele was determined to find her the family that would cherish and spoil her endlessly.

In late January, Emily visited the kitten nursery to meet a different cat, but Bedhead had other plans for her.

Michele @enckittennursery

"You know how kittens choose their person. One look from Bedhead, and Emily was smitten," Michele added. "I didn't rush into finding her a family and waited for the right fit, and did that work out."

Bedhead quickly settled into her new home, happily cradled in everyone's arms and purring nonstop. "Her forever family loves her immensely. She has a kitty sister named Snow and human brothers who love to hold and snuggle her."

She's found her forever homeMichele @enckittennursery

After months of devoted care, Bedhead transformed from a palm-sized wonder into a beautiful, happy, fluffy cat.

She may still be small, but her strength, resilience, and spirit are nothing short of extraordinary.

Michele @enckittennursery

Share this story with your friends. More on Michele's fosters at ENC Kitten Nursery on Instagram @enckittennursery and Facebook. Thanks to @catsofnewbern.

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