A tiny “panther” kitten named Hadley found a new lease on life when a loving cat adopted her after she was discovered alone in a yard in New Jersey. The small black kitten, barely a few days old, had been left behind after her mother moved her siblings to a safer place. Thankfully, a kind-hearted couple noticed her helpless state and stepped in to help, determined to give her a fighting chance at survival.
Hadley Photo Credit: Ellen Richter
The couple searched the area for Hadley’s mother and her littermates but couldn’t find any trace of them. After waiting as long as they could, they brought the kitten to Homeward Bound Cat Adoptions, hoping to find someone who could care for her. Staff at the rescue center immediately began providing warmth, nutrition, and medical attention. At only five days old, Hadley would not have survived without human intervention.
She was found in a yard all alone Photo Credit: Homeward Bound Cat Adoptions
Luckily, experienced foster mom Ellen Richter volunteered to take Hadley home. Ellen specializes in caring for newborn kittens who require round-the-clock attention. She bottle-fed the kitten every few hours, kept her warm, and ensured she was safe and loved. Within a short time, Hadley began showing signs of strength and responded well to her bottle feedings.
Hadley took to her bottle right away Photo Credit: Homeward Bound Cat Adoptions
Once Hadley was healthy enough, Ellen decided to introduce her to a nursing mother cat to help her thrive. A few weeks earlier, Ellen had taken in a pregnant tabby named Liberty, who gave birth to six kittens at her foster home. Liberty was a gentle, affectionate mother who had been rescued just in time from life outdoors.
Photo Credit: Homeward Bound Cat Adoptions
When Hadley’s eyes began to open, Ellen carefully placed her with Liberty and her kittens. To everyone’s joy, Liberty accepted Hadley instantly, allowing her to nurse and cuddle with her new siblings. Hadley found warmth, comfort, and love in this new feline family, and began to grow stronger every day.
Hadley (the tiny one at the bottom) with her new mama cat Photo Credit: Ellen Richter
Ellen continued supplementing Hadley with bottle feedings while she bonded with Liberty. “I’m thrilled to see her gaining weight and growing stronger,” Ellen shared. The little kitten adored her foster mother, often stretching her tiny legs and falling asleep after a good meal, surrounded by warmth and affection.
Photo Credit: Ellen Richter
By the time Hadley turned two weeks old, her eyes were wide open and her curiosity grew daily. She was no longer the lonely kitten she once was—she had found both human and feline love. Liberty’s other kittens were fascinated by their smallest sibling, often staring at her as she explored her surroundings.
Hadley became more curious and active Photo Credit: Ellen Richter
Like her adopted mom, Hadley developed a habit of “making biscuits” — a comforting kneading motion kittens do when they feel safe. Her appetite was strong, and her legs grew sturdier as she practiced walking around the nest. Meanwhile, Liberty began teaching her older kittens to eat solid food, giving Ellen more time to focus on Hadley’s care.
Photo Credit: Ellen Richter
Hadley’s transformation within just a week was remarkable. From a fragile, abandoned newborn to a playful “house panther” surrounded by love, she showed how powerful compassion can be. Her story is a beautiful reminder that even the smallest act of kindness can change a life forever.
Photo Credit: Ellen Richter
You can follow more updates on Hadley and Ellen’s other foster kittens on Instagram, and learn about ongoing rescue work at Homeward Bound Cat Adoptions.
