Welcome to my furry world! Last week, when we found a frail feral kitten in our yard, we knew we had to take some kind of action. Our vet told us the little girl had only a 50 percent chance of survival. Can the kitten be saved? Here’s what we’re doing, on the vet’s advice, to give little “Binky” the chance to live a happy, healthy life:
Thank you for watching. As you can imagine, Mr. Fox and I are now hopelessly in love with Binky. I’ll keep you posted on her progress. xKevin
Hungry for more? Get my email updates.
Tammy says
Oh my, she is a wee sick one. She just looks so lost and miserable, though it certainly sounds like she’s doing better than 24 hours ago! Thank you, Kevin, for doing right by this little kitty — what a kind heart you have (of course, we all knew that already). I hope she makes it and look forward to the updates. I think of all the feral kitties my mother would take to the vet, and later have spayed or neutered, and I’m glad for the fond memory you brought me with this latest adventure of yours.
Honeybee says
Kevin, Thank you for the video of Binky. You are kind and generous to give up your sleep for her. She is a lucky girl. I have high hopes for her future!
Amy from the Upper Peninsula says
Oh, Kevin, you and Mr. Fox are going to have a loyal kitty for life! She will always remember all of the love you’re giving her. She’s going to be a *gorgeous* cat as she gets older!
What dear hearts both of you are! Please keep us updated on her progress!
Haiku says
Love love love
MaryB says
Oh, Kevin! Up in the night, fussing with KRM, all the cleanup of her little face, the wet warm cloth on her butt to make her poop… goodness, what a job. 🙂 She’ll likely make it if you keep up with all that. Motherhood is a real trip!
Meghan Girroir says
What a lovely story-prayers and good thoughts for Binky. Stories like Binky’s rescue warm the heart.
Shelagh Morrison says
When winter hits we have a heated cat house from Amazon that mommy would love. Great for barn & feral cats. God bless. These tender mercies are what makes life so precious.
Lynn says
Gorgeous little girl. I do hope she makes it. You’re giving her the best chance. xxx
Janis says
Dearest Kevin, you are so caring. May little Binky get stronger every day. One thing I learned about feeding very young kittens (either abandoned by their inexperienced mommy or poor mommy met a bad fate) is that they normally suckle on their tummies, arching their backs. So they tend to eat a little better when they are in the natural position rather than upright. It is challenging either way and you are to be commended for rescuing this little baby. By the way, for a new mom doing all night feedings, you look great!
Gayann says
Binky is a survivor! Thank you for helping her! This reminds me of what we had to do to save our rescue maltipoo, Olivia. We had to syringe feed her, and care for her like you are doing for three weeks…we have now had “ Livey” for six years, and every day she looks up at us with love, and a thankful heart! We need this kind of loving compassion in our world, now more than ever. Thank you kevin!
Carla from Kansas says
Kevin — thank you for your generosity in taking in this little baby. That turn around is certainly a good sign. Binky is as cute as can be. Good luck with getting up at night to feed her. She will reward you with her loyalty. Carla
Rita says
Oh I hope Binky makes it——with your kind care I know she will.
Ofelia says
Kevin!! This is so wonderful and exciting. My daughter and I rescued a 2 week old kitten last year and went thru the same thing. We discovered https://orphankittenclub.org/. Hannah is a fabulous resource for all things kitten rescue. Please check it out. Good luck, bless you all and can’t wait to see more Binky <3
Jean says
She’s adorable! You are so kind and I love that you are doing so much for her. I hope she gets better each day and I look forward to updates!
Ofelia says
Kevin!! this is so wonderful and exciting. My daughter and I rescued 2 week old kitty a couple of years ago and went through the same thing. We discovered https://orphankittenclub.org. Hannah is a fabulous resource for all thing kitten rescue. Please check out the site.
Good Luck, bless you all and can’t wait to see more Binky!
Jasmin says
AWWW I want to see lots more of little Binky! What a little blessing she is!
Pamela Fitzpatrick says
Binky is absolutely adorable and I can see why you’re in love with her! I know how difficult it can be to rescue such a young kitten but also incredibly rewarding. I am sending positive and healing vibes to her. Please do keep us all updated regarding how little Binky is doing. ❤️
Charlotte says
Bless Your Hearts
Soon she will be able to lap up the formula on her own, after about a week then little by little add a bit of kitten canned food (smashed up) in her formula
Tabatha Hibbs says
Thank you so much for rescuing this sweet baby. One of the things I’ve learned over decades of rescuing and working with sick kittens is that keeping her inside your shirt against your skin at least some of the time will help her out. Your body heat is moist and gentle compared to a heating pad. Also, as a kitten she still needs close contact with another. This will help her bond with you, reduce the likelihood that she will be feral as an adult, and help her feel much safer than the crate. Also, in the crate, you need to give her a hideaway so she feels less exposed. If you can’t do that, then drape blankets over the crate. We think of cats as predators, but in the real world, they are as much prey as predator–particularly as kittens. If you could give her a way to feel less exposed, that would help reduce her overall stress.
Thank you again for taking in this sweet baby. I hope she makes it. If she does, you will have a friend for life.
Beth says
This is such a heart-warming story, and you’re so good to care for her with so much love. She looks completely content; she knows she’s in good hands now.
Layla says
She is precious!!
Cathie Wagner says
Hi Kevin
You and Mr Fox are so compassionate
God bless you both for all the good you do in this world.
Binky is adorable and beautiful eyes.
Will be praying
Roxie says
God bless you and Mr. Fox for taking in this poor kitten. And for planning to have the mama cat spayed, and keeping her fed. So kind, so generous, so compassionate.
Jean Diemer says
Hi Kevin, So glad Binky and her mom found you! I adopted a 6 week old kitten who they thought was weaned from her mom but she wasn’t so she had no clue on how to eat. I was a wreck about this kitten not surviving. I too fed her with the same type syringe for days until I could finally add some soft food and she figured out how to eat. Sweet Ms. Gigi is now 4 years old and probably the biggest cat we have ever owned! We are super close as I think I became her mom over the process. Thanks so much for rescuing sweet Binky and with all the love you are giving her I think she has a really good chance of surviving. You’re the best.
Patricia A. Holmes says
Of course I loved you before this but your rescue and caring of Binky has put me over the top. My husband walked by as I was watching the video and it brought tears to his eyes as he watched with me. You guys are the greatest in so many ways but loving and caring for animals tops them all. Thank you for sharing your baby Binky and her story with us. Keep us updated, please!
MARAYA says
Kevin, you’re wonderful! Sending good thoughts for Binky’s healing, and love to you for being such a caring person.
andrea says
Welcome, Binky! Kevin, when you said “look at that beautiful mug”, it’s actually 2 beautiful mugs we are seeing because you are such a very warm, kindhearted person to have undertaken helping give Binky a fighting chance to survive. We send positive, healing thoughts out to Binky & many thanks to you & Mr. Fox for stepping in to save her & help her mum!
Patt Reid says
My grandson had a similar experience; a feral cat had kittens in their backyard. It was winter so my son-in-law fashioned a house for them out of an old cooler, and my grandson kept them in food and water. Eventually, they all disappeared but one. That one adopted my grandson and is still part of their family today, some 10 years later.
Mariska L says
Three years ago my neighborhood became over run with feral cats having lots and lots of kittens. It was becoming overwhelming and neighbors were complaining. Before anyone could do anything drastic, we contacted a new non profit organization in our area and they were willing to help us trap, spay, neuter and vaccinate all 22 cats and kittens. The deal , on our part , was to let them live out their lives back here. Although we could not take them all into our home ( with 2 Great Danes) we made them shelters out of storage boxes and filled them with straw.
They get fed twice a day both dry and wet food. I occasionally receive donations of food and that helps a lot. Best of all they are all healthy and happy and no more kittens.
Good luck with Binky, she is adorable! It was a very kind thing you did to ensure her good health and happiness.
Nancy says
Bless you!
Binky is a very lucky kitty I wish her continued strength. Thank you for saving her and having her mother fixed.
Kathleen Hayes says
I’m teary sensing your big hearts. She is one fortunate kitty. Helping animals is a favorite part of my life.
Carolyn says
Thank you for doing this, Kevin.
Michelle Wilhelms says
Oh Kevin, Thank you for caring about this sweet little one and her Mom. I second checking out Hannah, the Kitten Lady. Here is another link for a must read on newborn care: http://www.kittenlady.org/kitten-care – Binky is lucky to have you!
Carolyn D Contois says
Ive been caring for animals for the last 40 years. The one thing I tell all my clients and adopters is that it doesn’t matter if an animal is young, old, sick,… etc…all that matters is the compassion. You make a difference whether you have a day or 10 years… they don’t have the ‘linear time box’ that humans are stuck in… they feel loved…and that’s what you take with you!….(lucky kitty)
Dot Sparling says
Kevin,
You are so kind and I know Binky is one lucky kitten for you and Mr. Fox to have adopted her. I look forward to watching her progress her, and occasionally seeing your other pets, while you are preparing your wonderful recipes for all of us lucky viewers.
Thank you for sharing your life with us. Appreciate!
Susan says
She is such a little sweetheart!!!!! I just know she is going to get better and I look forward to the next updated video of Binky to see her progress. Thank you for being such a kind animal lover and helping this poor little kitty and her mama!!!
Nancy E says
You are such a compassionate man. A young compromised kitten takes a lot of love and care which obviously you are willing to give. Keep us posted on beautiful Binky’s progress.
mary ann says
that is a cute part Mackerel breed….yes, markings like the fish….most common….hope she continues to do well, great cats…..we rescued a 10 yr. old, Bella and she has made our lives
better for it
Kathie Tinucci says
We recently had a ktten coming around our house that looked like a little bigger Binky. She was extremely thin but rather friendly. We would try to feed her but she would eat and drink very little plus I think she was intimidated by our other feral cats. On the morning that Isaias was approaching she appeared in front of our house and we were able to wrap a towel around her and bring her to the town for trap and release and for a health check up. Turns out that she wasn’t a kitten but was estimated to be about 10 years old and she had conjunctivitis! I can’t believe that someone would be so cruel and abandon this sweetheart. We’re checking on this little cutie every couple of days and hope that when she is well someone will adopt her and give her the love that she deserves. We would love to take her in but our senior cats won’t tolerate another cat.
Janet says
She is so precious and couldn’t have asked for better parents! Thank you soo much for your plans for trapping and spaying her mom. That poor thing needs help also. I used to have heated cat houses from Hamacher Schlemer on my covered porch and cared for two ferals for many years along with my houseful of furballs. They were even long haired and I had to get them anesthetized and shaved every spring because their fur would get hardened like a shell. I couldn’t bare to see them suffer and after the haircuts they were so silky soft.
Sharon says
Oh, this video just warmed my heart this morning! Sending you encouragement and love from Michigan! Binky is one lucky kitten! Thank you for caring for
Momma Cat too!
Carole says
Bless your sweet heart Kevin.
JoAnne says
It’s so rewarding to be able to help a tiny animal.
6 yrs ago my husband brought home 2 TINY kittens. They couldn’t eat, drink, etc. Mother had deserted them. The vet said they were only 2 weeks old. Your photos bring back loving memories. Oh, they grew to be handsome and healthy.
Margaret says
Kudos! Know what you’re going through. I rescued (2) 3wk. old kittens who thrived as indoor cats for 18 & 19 years. They were wonderful clever companions who loved retrieving toys for me to toss. I still have a 12 yr. old darling tabby rescue with silky soft fur and raccoon tail. I keep her inside too.
Binky’s really taking to her milk. She’s gonna make it just fine. Darling and lucky to have a home.
Sandra says
I love this story about Binky’s rescue. I know she will make it with all your love and attention. She is so cute. I am an animal lover too. xoxo
MickeyC says
I LOVE Binky! So very WONDERFUL and she looks so content with YOU!
patrice says
That is one cute little kitty. I’m so glad Binky has a new, safe home with you both. Take care
Katie says
Oh how wonderful that you found her! How fortunate!
My feral kitten is now 12 years old. He ( Captain Jack Sparrow) a very vocal siamese; grew up with my Scottish Terrier, Keela, and my chihuahua (another rescue) who was also named Binkie (due to her overbite). My Binkie passed on last January at 16.
Michelle Pona says
With all of the crappy stuff going on in the world right now THIS was the story I needed to hear today. You and Mr. Fox have such kind loving souls ❤️ You warmed my heart when you said you were taking care of Momma too!! Sending lots of healing energy to Binky!
Jodi says
I love you!
gloria says
Such a wonderful story- I hate to bring up a delicate subject, but how is her use of the litter box- Mom’s lick their babies to stimulate the need to go-
My sister raised 7 ophans and washed them with a warm wet washcloth to activate their bathroom needs after feedings- The vet said that this was very important or they might die of blockage.
Just passing on what little I know-
You guys are great!
We are eager to hear about Binky’s progress!
Debra says
Good on you and Mr. Fox…but PLEASE keep her as an indoor cat only. After all your hard work to make her healthy (and it IS a LOT of work, but SO worth it!), she will be at HIGH risk for a prematuren death from a predator, infection from another animal, or a car. I have four rescue cats now and they have no real interest in going outside…they know what a good deal they have inside! Best of luck with Binky, Kevin!
veggivet says
The Hudson area has a huge feral cat problem, despite the efforts of AnimalKind. I noticed that before you took her out of her crate, her respiratory rate was quite high. Hypothermia is usually a very poor prognostic sign, but on the other hand, there’s a reason for the adage of cats and their nine lives. I hope she makes a full recovery, but the odds are just as good that she will join her littermate in kitty heaven…
Mary says
What a sweet little one. The heating pad is a great idea. You are giving her the security she needs
to survive.
marsha says
Happy Sunday Binkie! You hit the Jackpot having 2 Daddies to nurture & love you! You’re SO pretty & I’m sure will grow into a beautiful cat to give back all the love you’re getting now.
Please tell your Daddy Kevin that I baked his wonderful Peach Pie yesterday – turning it into individual crumb topping cobblers yesterday. His filling recipe is out of this world!
I now have all the ingredients for his Tomato Pie & will make that today from my own homegrown heirloom tomatoes. Kevin’s emails of home, garden, recipes m, etc are all wonderful! And now there’s YOU! Wishing you continued good health Binkie & I hope to see you again soon! Love & hugs, marsha
ArtistryFarm says
Love you for doing this, Kevin and Fox …
Glenda says
Love and heartfelt thanks to both you and Mr. Fox for coming to the aid of this dear little kitten.
Dale Cormack says
Oh, she’s adorable and I can tell she will be a beautiful cat as she grows. You are such a good mommy to take care of her!
Janet says
Ir was mesmerizing to watch you pet Binky. I could feel my heart rate slow and my muscles relax. Love conquers all! With your attention to her physical and mental needs, she will thrive. Bless you for caring so for one of God’s often forgotten creatures. Thanks for sharing Binky with us.
MaryB says
Update??? Surely Miss Binky is about twice as big now! 🙂
Lin says
Thank you for being so kind.
Mary Christiani says
Aw, Kevin! She’s a beauty. What an incredible little heart shaped face. Your eyes match! Sweet, sweet, sweet!
My kids found an abandoned baby squirrel last night and immediately found someone who raises them and sets them free, drove the 2 hours to deliver the baby and drove home again. I’m so proud of them to try their best to save a beautiful God creature!
You too! But, Binky is yours. It was meant to be. 🙂
Kathleen Strang says
What a great Dad you are! The world needs more people like you. God Bless you for all of your love and kindness not only to Binkie but in the way you live your life. I look forward to making the green bean casserole. It looks delicious. Look forward to updates.
Ruth R says
Kevin, so glad Binky showing improvement. Wonderful that you are doing this.
I am lighting candles to the kitten gods.
Beverly says
High hopes for Miss Binky, and yes indeed, you both have big hearts! Keep us posted and thank you!
ellin pollachek says
Kevin: It’s great that you saw what was happening with Mama Cat and Binky and got to the vet. I think Binky is well on her way to becoming a grown up cat and loving being part of your family. Hope you and Mr. Fox, Binky and pup are having a safe, happy summer.
Lois says
What kept coming to mind while I was viewing your video was a quote by Mahatma Gandhi:
“The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.”
Certainly, things are more than a bit of a mess right now but your huge heart and kind attention (an understatement) to Binky is a ray of hope in these unsettled times.
Wishing you all the best with Binky. You and Mr. Fox are the best!
Linda says
Thank you so much for caring about this little kitten! My favorite and sweetest cat followed me home from a walk one day. Tried to get him to leave but he just kept following me. We brought him in and he has been with us now for about 7 years. He is an adorable cat and so healthy. Couldn’t imagine life without him! I do hope you’ll have the same experience.
Aurora says
Beautiful, lucky Binky:)
Willa Nemetz says
Dear Kevin, sending love and light to you and little Binky. If anyone can save her, you can! If you put a Binky-sized cardboard box in her crate, she’ll have a place to feel secure. After all, cats LOVE boxes. Please keep us posted!
Joan DiCoio says
Kevin, bravo to you and Mr. Fox for taking this little one and her mother on. If you want to exponentially increase her chances of survival get an extra large “flour sack” dish towel. You’re going to make a front facing papoose holder! Tie two diagonal ends into a knot and drape around your neck. Place “Binky” in the hammock and take turns just carrying her around that way. It provides that critical closeness kittens usually receive from their mothers and siblings which is painfully absent now. Your body heat will do the trick and she will bond even closer to you two! Good luck! Btw, I brought a kitten back to life this way, too, and that Cat actually thought I was it’s mother, too!
Kara says
Aww Kevin, blessings on you and Mr. Fox and dear little Binky. She will do well. I just know it. Love heals, every time! ❤️❤️❤️
Judith says
Thank You for rescuing Binky…. and caring for Momma too…. They found you! Can’t wait for updates! Binky will make it thanks to you and Mr. Fox… the heated blanket… great idea….
Blessings on You!
Valerie C. says
I love Binky Thanks to you and your spouse for giving her so much care and love, I believe she has a great chance at a wonderful life. Thank you for helping her
MELODI REYES says
I’ve rescued kittens younger than that – it can be labor intensive but very rewarding. Binky has a good “Mom” and I think she’ll thrive. The look on your face, says it all.
I just love you, Kevin!
Leslie Derbecker says
Thank you for being compassionate, providing such love and care to Binky and her mom, and giving us a lovely story to follow during this difficult time. I enjoy reading the comments of your faithful readers, feeling that we form an extended family for you and yours.
Hugs to all.
NorseArcher says
Wonderful! Thank you for your kind heart! I agree w Gloria (post 51) about stimulating bowels. A warm wrung-out wash cloth imitates mother’s rough tongue. Stimulate the tummy gently, bowels, and to remove food around face. A full tummy, a warm place and lots of love = good recipe! 😉 Good luck and I hope to hear positive updates on Binkey!
Kay says
Kevin, Awesome on YOU! That little kitty is going to be running your household soon. Binky is a lucky little kitty for ending up under your garden shed. Hope mom turns out to be a success story too. She sounds like she needs an intervention too. Little Binky Blue Eyes does seem to be a bit squirmy today.
Penelope says
Kevin please go to The Kitten Lady Supplies on Google & see what she recommends for folks caring for kittens. You can purchase really excellent kits at amazon including bottles with various sized nipples to help feeding as their little mouths grow. You are doing a wonderful thing!
Despina says
Hunky and her Mom are blessed to have
Found you. Thanks Kevin
All the Best
Despina
Sharon Lamoreaux says
You and Mr. Fox have restored my faith in mankind. SO many tears I cried watching this. You both are wonderful and I look forward to seeing Binky thrive.
Diane C says
OMG Kevin! A man after my own heart. You and Mr. Fox are softies! Binky is adorable and for sure will survive to be the best kitty ever! Please continue to take care of her mama! I love you guys! BTW, my husband commented today what a great idea the cattle panels are for supporting our plants. After not having a vegetable garden for 30 years (moved to FL) we now have a summer home back in Maine and my garden is a huge success! Thanks for all your great tips! Last years leaves going into the garden this fall!!
Melody Rae says
What a mensch you are! I hope to hear good news about Binky and Mama kitty. I am especially grateful that you will see to her. She will make a great and thankful kitty. Looking forward to updates!
Lori says
In my hectic life, God slowed me down making me take time to enjoy the little things in life and in this case 5 three week old kittens that became homeless when Momma Cat didn’t come home from hunting. Every 3-4 hours I got up in the wee hours of the night to feed babies and help them potty. I’d wrap each one in a wash rag and held it close to my body to first teach them to suck from the syringe. Once full, each one laid in my lap where I had a mini heater running to keep them warm. Each kitten got about 2 minutes of snuggling bc the next one was starving and mewling loudly. One always seemed to wake up the whole batch, so I played music that resembled beach waves, rain or even a heartbeat to soothe them. On days I worked, daughters swiped schedules so the kittens could be taken care. (The COVID break helped us greatly otherwise kittens would have had to wait 8 hours). I remember that I couldn’t wait to be out of the 3-4 hour schedule but as they grew, how I missed the quiet cuddle times. Four found homes and the grands asked Grampa if we could keep the last one for them to play with when they came. Otis will get fixed and shots as soon as he is old enough and will entertain the 2 other older fixed males that call this place home.
Marilou says
I hope your little kitten grows to be happy and healthy. I have a cat that wandered onto my front porch on a cold September Friday in 2013. She was small with a very big voice. My youngest son who was still living at home fixed a box for her in my garage. Every morning she was out of the box and on the back step meowing. I decided to keep her and brought her in the house. My son said we will call her Freida because she found us on a Friday. She is a blond beige cat with black socks and black rings on her tail and she has blue eyes. She is very precious to me. She loves to cuddle up on my lap when I am watching TV.
Margaret Califano says
Kevin, you do have such a good heart, helping that poor kitty just like you did for Lily. I wish you luck with her.
Verena says
God bless you Kevin !
Nancy says
Oh Kevin, you were meant to find and care for tiny Binky !! Thank-you for your huge heart and loving ways. If there is anyone who can nurture and guide her to good health, it’s you. Thank-you.
alison says
How is Binky today?
Andrea D says
Kevin, its Monday- can we get Binky update?
janrinn says
We had a cat named Binky!! my husband named him, I have no idea where that name came from.
Rhea says
BInky you are such a lucky kitten. Hope you love your new home.
Mary says
I had a similar situation with a kitten. I started feeding him with a syringe and we graduated to a bottle. He had ringworm and was quite the little guy. His name, DJ. Sadly he had to leave me at the ripe age of 20 years old. My prayers are with you and Binky that she will beat the odds.
Kristi says
I too raised a kitten with an eyedropper. She lived to be 16 years old and passed this last winter. You would have thought she would be so bonded, but was a very aloof cat. She was an easy cat to have around though. She did not think she could jump, even onto a chair, so always stayed on the floor. Gingham was a good save. I hope Binky is also.
Nancy says
How’s the Binks? Really anxious for an update. Bless you for the love you give.
Liliana says
Dear Kevin,
You absolutely ARE the maternal type, and the way Binky looked at you after feeding just melted my heart.
I wish the world had more caring, loving people like you and your spouse.
If Binky makes it (and everything points in that direction!) she will be a “life” lottery winner.
Looking forward to your updates, and of course, more delicious recipes and awesome garden tips.
Debbie says
Bless you Kevin, this story warmed my heartShe will be a very loyal kitty for you two!!
Sonja Jones says
Last October 24th I was working at…a coffee shop…and we had a customer come thru and give her order. But she never pulled away from the speaker box. Then she spoke again and said “there’s a kitten out here” and then we heard the meows! I ran out and bent down and called that kitten. Usually feral cats will run away but this one ran right to me, up my leg and to my shoulder, where she continued her meowing. She too needed a lot of attention. She’s a tuxedo.
Long story short, that cat is almost a year old (she was probably 4 weeks when she adopted me). She still shows her feralness (word I made up) occasionally but is a great cat and gives us lots of entertainment.
Her name is Joel and if you ever watched The Closer you would understand the name.
It’s always a good feeling when they chose you. Binky will grow to be a beautiful cat!
Jesse says
Binky’s eyes are almond shaped and when I saw her I immediately thought she looks like the actress from long ago, Merle Oberon. Do you know who she was?
You are a very kind, caring person.
Barbara