They stepped in to rescue a litter of helpless kittens and met one feisty little tabby who quickly took charge of the whole group.
Prim | Kelsey
A mother cat named Paisley arrived at the local shelter with her tiny three-week-old kittens who needed immediate care. When Paisley suddenly stopped nursing them, a foster volunteer named Kelsey stepped in and began bottle-feeding the babies. Among the litter were two remarkable kittens — Prim, a small tabby, and her sister Pru, a tuxedo cat. Both had wobbly movements due to a neurological issue, but their energy and determination never faded.
After Paisley was spayed and returned to her loving family, her kittens continued to grow strong under Kelsey’s care. The little ones adapted quickly to their new home, bringing joy and playfulness to their foster environment.
Photo Credit: Kelsey
Besides her unsteady steps, Prim also had an eye condition that made her unique. However, this brave kitten refused to let anything stop her. “Without a proper diagnosis, we treated it as cerebellar hypoplasia (CH),” Kelsey explained. “We monitored their growth and behavior closely, always mindful of their neurological differences.”
Prim never let her wobbliness stop her fun | Kelsey
Within just 24 hours, the kittens learned to bottle-feed like champions. Even Prim and Pru, the wobbly sisters, managed to latch on confidently. When the time came to wean them, one ginger boy named Pedro faced a setback. Thankfully, with care, nutrition, and love, he recovered quickly and was soon back to his playful self.
Pedro and Pru | Kelsey
As they transitioned to solid food, the kittens hit a rapid growth phase. Each day, Prim and Pru grew steadier and more confident. Though Prim remained smaller than her siblings, she made up for it with her fiery spirit and adventurous attitude.
Pedro, Peyton, and Prim | Kelsey
Kelsey noticed that Prim might have involuntary eye movements affecting her coordination, but nothing could hold this determined kitten back. She played, climbed, and explored just like the others, even mastering the litter box. Her favorite spot? Kelsey’s shoulder — like a tiny, purring parrot cat.
Prim loves perching on Kelsey’s shoulder | Kelsey
As the kittens grew bolder, the family pets joined in the fun. Mr. Manager, the resident cat, became their mentor, while the two ginger kittens, Peyton and Pedro, followed him everywhere. Meanwhile, Prim adored the family dog, Fletcher, who often dropped by for gentle playtime.
Left: Prim and Fletcher; Right: Mr. Manager with Peyton and Pedro | Kelsey
While some kittens were already ready for spay and neuter procedures, Prim still had more growing to do. Despite her petite size and partial vision issues, she remained endlessly curious and full of life. “She’s a silly, playful girl who loves exploring,” said Kelsey.
Photo Credit: Kelsey
Whenever Kelsey entered the room, Prim raced toward her, eager for cuddles. She climbed up her shoulder or curled up in her lap, refusing to leave. Her best friend, Peyton, was always nearby, joining her in mischief and kitten chaos. Their lively energy filled the foster home with laughter.
Prim and Peyton | Kelsey
Thanks to Kelsey’s love and dedication, this once-fragile litter of kittens is now thriving. Prim, the fearless little tabby, continues to inspire everyone with her determination and joyful heart — proving that even the smallest kitten can have the biggest spirit.
Photo Credit: Kelsey
Share this heartwarming story with your friends, and see more updates on Kelsey’s foster adventures on Instagram @pennyandthefosters.
