Cat Turns on 'Dad' Mode and Starts Caring for Kittens in Need After Moving Indoors
A cat turned on his "dad" mode and started caring for kittens in need after moving indoors.
Dakota and BunnyFosterBabyCatsDakota, an orange tabby named after the street where he was found, was rescued after surviving on his own for quite some time.Jillian, the founder of FosterBabyCats, gave him a spare room after he was fixed and treated for a wound. Though uncertain if he would adjust to living indoors, she wanted him to experience the comfort and warmth of a home.Before long, he turned on the charm and proved he was meant for indoor life.
FosterBabyCatsDakota, estimated to be two years old, had endured the harsh realities of street life. When he was served a plate of freshly boiled chicken, he devoured it, delighted to have a full belly.He was gentle and easygoing with the female cats in the house, happily letting them call the shots.
He nestled into Jillian's lap for the first timeFosterBabyCatsTwo days later, Dakota hopped onto the couch beside Jillian. With a gentle nudge of his head, he nestled into her lap, ready for some cuddles. "The first time he started making biscuits and comfort nursing on a soft blanket, I knew he wasn't planning on going back outside."He followed her everywhere, even into the bathroom while she showered, as if he were her little guardian.
He follows his foster mom everywhere, even into the bathroomFosterBabyCats"He's very loyal to whoever he claims as his human."When he joined Jillian in the foster room, he found her tending to two tiny rescue kittens. At first, he was unsure about them, but he kept checking in on his foster mom. After a few visits, he decided to lend a paw.
FosterBabyCats"The first time I witnessed some softness from him was when I was helping Bunny (tortie) go potty, and he let her grab his neck to comfort her."One day, he settled next to the incubator, inviting Bugs (gray and white kitten) to come closer. After a few sniffs, he tenderly washed his face and groomed his fur. "Now, he comes running to help when he knows it's time for their bottles."
FosterBabyCats"I haven't quite figured out if Dakota likes the idea of kittens or if he's just caring for them because he thinks they are my babies, and he's trying to support me. Either option is very sweet, and I appreciate him no matter what the motive."Every night, he comes to help get the kittens ready for bed. "I'm pretty sure Bunny thinks she's exactly the same size as Dakota."
Dakota and BunnyFosterBabyCatsThe kittens lean into him whenever he grooms them, soaking up all the affection."It has to be so nice to experience being groomed by another cat for the first time. He has done a spectacular job of keeping them clean and allowing them to experience the love of a 'mom cat'—something I can't replicate as a human foster mom."
Dakota and BugsFosterBabyCatsWhether Jillian is relaxing on the couch or making dinner, Dakota wants to be part of the action. "He thinks he's an integral part. Taking a shower? He'll stand watch.""He's only known me for a few months, and he's fiercely loyal. I hope he can find his own forever home with someone who has more time for him; he deserves all the love and attention."
FosterBabyCatsDakota has learned to enjoy life and rediscovered his inner kitten. He now plays with toys and the kittens' new furniture, making sure everything is well-tested for when Bunny and Bugs are bigger.But above all, he adores his people, trailing them like their most loyal companion.
FosterBabyCats"Dakota is so protective and possessive. He needs a very special home that will adore that about him."He's loving his new life as an indoor cat, showing his human how grateful he is every day with biscuits (kneading), head bumps, and purrs.
FosterBabyCatsShare this story with your friends. More on Dakota (in OH) and FosterBabyCats on Instagram@FosterBabyCats and Facebook or to adopt at their site FosterBabyCats.org.Related story: Cat Thought to Be a 7-Week-Old Kitten When Found Along the Road but Turns Out She's Much Older
