As Hurricane Milton intensified on its path toward the Florida coast, residents were advised to prepare for possible evacuation. Amidst this urgent situation, one individual paused her preparations to rescue a mother cat and her kittens left behind.
Nikki, the vice president of A Better Life-Pet Rescue of Florida, received an urgent call at 10 p.m. on the eve of Hurricane Milton’s landfall. A colleague informed her about a mother cat and her seven kittens abandoned in a vacant home. “I told [my husband] if I don’t get her, I will never forgive myself,” Nikki stated in an interview.
Haunted by memories of extensive flooding in the area following Hurricane Ian in 2022, Nikki felt a strong obligation to help the feline family. Although authorities had not issued evacuation orders, she feared for the safety of the vulnerable kittens.
Nikki and a friend traveled approximately 30 minutes to the location. Upon arrival, the mother cat immediately approached them, as if anticipating their arrival. The cat led them around the property, frequently glancing back to ensure they were following. Eventually, she guided them directly to her seven kittens.
Upon inspection, the rescuers discovered empty food and water bowls outside, indicating that the mother cat had been starving. They placed her in a carrier with food and began to collect the kittens. Remarkably, the mother seemed unbothered by their actions, as if she understood they were there to assist.
The dramatic rescue, filmed by Nikki, was shared on the TikTok on October 9. The mother cat, instinctively protective, attempted to shield her kittens from the impending storm. Fortunately, they did not have to face the hurricane alone. Nikki and her friend successfully secured all seven kittens and their mother, bringing them back to Nikki’s home to ride out the storm.
Nikki’s home became a temporary refuge for over 40 cats during Hurricane Milton, with carriers lining her space as she endeavored to save as many animals as possible.
The mother cat and her kittens are currently in a foster home, where they are recovering and regaining strength. Although they appear to be thriving, Nikki noted that some of the kittens are suffering from eye infections, and one seems to have sustained an injury. They will be transferred to another foster home once their health improves.
Regarding adoption, Nikki indicated it is premature, as the kittens are only about two weeks old and just beginning to open their eyes. However, she is optimistic that once they are ready, both the kittens and their mother, described as “so trusting and thankful,” will find loving homes quickly.
The heartwarming rescue story has captivated audiences, amassing over 3.5 million views on TikTok. Many viewers expressed their gratitude for Nikki’s selfless actions in the face of the approaching hurricane.
“Poor mama was stressed. Thank you for helping her,” one viewer commented. Another remarked, “She had them tucked away for safety.” A third added, “The tail straight up because she was so happy someone finally came to save her babies. I’m not crying.”
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