Meet Honeybun, the orange cat who’s earned her reputation as a rockstar mother at Spicy Cats Rescue. She started her journey with them when she was found outside and brought into safety through a TNR (trap-neuter-return) effort. But Honeybun didn’t stop at raising her own kittens; she extended her loving care to many others.
Caroline, the president of Spicy Cats Rescue, describes Honeybun as “the most even-keeled cat ever” and someone who remains unruffled by almost anything.
Just when it seemed like Honeybun was taking a break from her mommy duties, a special little “kitten” came into her life, unlike any she’d encountered before.
This unique addition to the family is a 6-week-old bobcat kitten, an orphan in need of a mother’s love. She was rescued by Millstone Wildlife Center, with the goal of raising and rehabilitating her for eventual release back into the wild. Since her arrival, this little bobkitten had been crying out for a constant companion.
Frannie from Millstone Wildlife Center explained the delicate balance they must maintain when caring for animals like the bobkitten. These animals should not become too comfortable around humans, even though they need social interaction, playtime, snuggles, and grooming.
In their quest to find a surrogate mother, they reached out to Spicy Cats Rescue. Honeybun emerged as the ideal candidate, given her maternal instincts and experience raising countless kittens in the past.
When they introduced the two feline friends, it was a match made in heaven. Honeybun waited comfortably in her carrier, and the bobkitten immediately fell head over heels in love. The bobkitten showed her affection with purrs, nose sniffing, face rubs, and ear nibbles. It didn’t take long for her to wrap her arms around Honeybun, snuggling up to her new surrogate mom.
Over the following days, the bobkitten observed Honeybun closely, learning how to groom and eat like a big kitty. Honeybun, with the patience of a saint, welcomed the bobkitten’s rough play and happily mentored her.
“They’ve been together a week tomorrow and are doing great. They snuggle, eat, and sleep together. The bobkitten tries to play with Honey all the time.”
With Honeybun’s devoted care, the bobkitten blossomed, no longer crying from loneliness. Instead, their room echoed with purrs and playful antics.
Honeybun and her bobkitten have become a heartwarming tale of love and compassion. To stay updated on their adorable journey, follow Spicy Cats Rescue on Facebook and Instagram @spicylilcats and Millstone Wildlife Center on Facebook and Instagram @millstone_wildlife_center.
