Hadley, a tiny black “panther” kitten, was just a few days old when she was found alone in a yard. Her mother had moved all her other kittens to safety but somehow left Hadley behind. A kind-hearted couple discovered her, searched the area, and waited for hours hoping the mother would return. When she didn’t, they brought the fragile kitten to Homeward Bound Cat Adoptions, pleading for someone to help save her life.
Hadley Photo: Ellen Richter
At just five days old, Hadley needed urgent care. The rescue team ensured she was warm and alert before starting round-the-clock feeding. Without her mother’s milk and warmth, she wouldn’t have survived. That’s when experienced foster carer Ellen Richter stepped in, bottle-feeding Hadley every few hours and giving her the love she desperately needed.
She was found in a yard all alone Photo: Homeward Bound Cat Adoptions
Once Ellen was sure Hadley was stable, she decided to introduce her to a nursing mama cat for the best chance at survival. A month earlier, Ellen had taken in a pregnant tabby named Liberty, who had been abandoned outside the adoption center. Liberty quickly adapted to foster life, and days later, she gave birth to six healthy kittens in a warm, safe home.
Hadley took to her bottle right away Photo: Homeward Bound Cat Adoptions
When Hadley’s eyes began to open, Ellen introduced her to Liberty and her litter. Instantly, Hadley cuddled up to her new feline family, nursing alongside the bigger kittens and soaking in the warmth of her new mama. Ellen continued bottle-feeding her every two hours to ensure steady weight gain, while Liberty lovingly groomed her from head to toe.
Photo: Homeward Bound Cat Adoptions
By two weeks old, Hadley had bright, curious eyes and more energy to explore. Surrounded by her new siblings, she was no longer the lonely kitten she once was. The older kittens were fascinated by her tiny size, often poking and sniffing her with curiosity. Hadley, just like Liberty, had a knack for making “biscuits” (kneading) and was growing stronger each day.
Hadley (tiny one at the bottom) with her new mama Photo: Ellen Richter
As Liberty’s own kittens began weaning, Ellen took over feeding Hadley full-time. The little “house panther” showed off her playful side, batting her paws, stretching her tiny legs, and curling up in her heated bed after meals. With each passing day, she grew healthier, more active, and full of personality — a living testament to the power of love, care, and second chances.
Photo: Ellen Richter
Today, Hadley is thriving — surrounded by a loving foster family, a doting mama cat, and playful siblings. Her journey from an abandoned yard to a warm, safe home is a heartwarming reminder that sometimes, family finds you when you least expect it.
