The Story of Chynna and Her Kittens

Over the last 12 months, our FeLV+ cat population has skyrocketed. One of our more recent additions is Chynna. Chynna is a half Persian, half Siamese mommy cat who came to us with 5 newborn kittens. We had received a report of a "15 year old, blind, deaf cat" cat with newborn kittens in May 2006. We were heartbroken by that story, and immediately accepted her and the newborn babies. When Chynna came to us, she had severe herpes infections in both eyes that had never been treated (both eyes were swollen completely shut), a terrible case of ear mites, a dirty, raggedy coat, and five teeny, tiny babies. After a trip to the vet to determine the best course of treatment for her eyes and ears, we received some devastating news. As if her other circumstances weren't bad enough - she also tested positive for Feline Leukemia.

In her new foster home, Chynna's eyes and ears were treated, she got a bath and regular grooming, and the teeny babies slowly grew. Her eyes and ears slowly improved, she gained weight, and her coat became thick and glossy.   We can't be sure of her age (and Chynna isn't telling!), but the vet confirmed that she is at least 10 years old. Today, her beautiful blue eyes are nearly clear, and she can definitely hear now that those nasty little mites are gone. Unfortunately, her five beautiful kittens have all tested positive for FeLV as well.

The entire family is currently happy and healthy and live in a Cat Angels foster home. Chynna recovered nicely from her pregnancy, was finally spayed, and is doing just great! She's very affectionate and just loves to cuddle with her foster mom. They will most likely all continue to live in their foster home for the duration of their lives - FeLV+ cats are very hard to place in permanent homes. Ironically, most FeLV cats (at least the ones that have found their way to CAN) also seem to be extremely friendly, sociable, people-loving cats.

We will love them unconditionally for as long as we are lucky enough to have them with us. 2006-09-18

Update: 03-14-2007

Chynna continues to do well in her foster home. She's got quite a big of energy and plays "king of the hill" (or "Queen of the Bed") with her kittens every night. The kittens Sophia, Lauren, and Mr. Squeak, are just about 10 months old and are also doing well. But all three are currently active, happy, and healthy, and continue to try to claim the rights to the bed from their mother, Chynna. She eventually decides to share her space, so most often, everyone ends up climbing up there eventually and sleeping together in a big pile.

The Great Dandelion Puff died on February 4, 2007 at the age of 8 months and 14 days. His brother Pippin followed him to Rainbow Bridge 20 days later on February 24. He had just passed his 9 month birthday. Both boys were happy and healthy until shortly before they passed away. Their foster mom is grateful that they didn't suffer for very long. 2007-03-14

Chynna's kittens are FeLV+ and are not currently available for adoption.

Chynna (with Pippin and Mr. Squeak) in June 2006...

... and posing on "her" bed in November '06.

The following pictures of the kittens
were taken in September 2006

Pippin
Pippin went to Rainbow Bridge on Feb. 24, 2007 at the age of 9 months
and 5 days. We miss his adorable, unique little face and gentle, loving
disposition. He was a calm, quiet boy who never bothered anyone.

Mr. Squeak
Mr. Squeak is a bundle of cheerfulness. He loves to stand on his hind
legs and reach up to put his front paws on his foster mom's shoulders.

Sophia
Sophia is a typical tortie spitfire - mixed with an unexpected dose
of gentle sweetness and affection that surfaces when you least expect it.

Our very special baby girl, Lauren
We started calling her "Baby Girl Lauren" when she was only half as big
as her littermates. After many weeks of "specials" (turkey and lamb baby
food), she suddenly hit a growth spurt, and is now bigger than her mother.
She has a beautiful long, puffy tail and has become quite a diva-kitty.

...and The Great Dandelion Puff (a little sleepy!)
Puff went to Rainbow Bridge on Feb. 4, 2007 at the age of 8 months and 16
days. He was as affectionate as he was gorgeous. We miss him very much.

Chynna's kittens are FeLV+ and are not currently available for adoption.