A compassionate woman discovered the smallest kitten she had ever laid eyes on and embarked on an amazing adventure to rescue the tiny feline.
Introducing Chili, the extraordinary cat!
On the day he was rescued (left), 14 hours after (right)
Photograph by Joann Bowell of God’s Little People
Joann Bowell has saved and looked after numerous cats on a small Greek island. While feeding the cats one evening, she heard some piercing kitten cries but couldn’t spot a mother cat nearby. Curious, she followed the sound to its source.
“Just 10 meters into the field among some tall bamboo I was greeted by this heartbreaking sight,” Bowell described. “One kitten had tragically passed away already, and this sad and dirty (with eyes sealed shut due to infection) was the one pitifully crying for help.”
The tiny feline was severely undernourished and feeble. It was evident that he had gone days without food. “I might be mistaken, but it seems like mama has abandoned the situation.”
She carefully cleaned the kitten’s eyes so they could open slightly. She delicately bathed the frail baby, treated him for fleas and infected eyes, and fed him some kitten formula as he was too weak to drink on his own.
After a few tries at feeding, she placed the baby in a box with a warm water bottle to help regulate his body temperature. “Within 14 hours, his eyes have transitioned from being shut tight as if glued together to both eyes being wide open.”
He may have been the skinniest little creature they had ever encountered, but Chili displayed strength despite his size.
Photograph by Joann Bowell from God’s Little People
When he was prepared, Joann introduced him to his new sisters, rescued cats, Kameli & Vanilla, hoping this would boost his immune system and increase his appetite which had improved overnight.
“His sisters have restored his hope – they offer such physical comfort to him, something he seemed to have been lacking,” Bowell shared.
“He seemed to have entered a ‘twilight zone’ when I found him, but he has an incredible fighting spirit and has already made a remarkable recovery!”
Photograph by Joann Bowell from God’s Little People
“He has a constant need for physical contact, and the sisters provide that beautifully. But because he has been deprived of food for a very long time, he also constantly searches for milk.”
Chili is incredibly tiny, but he is fighting hard every day to become healthier and stronger. “He no longer whimpers when he sleeps. He truly is a miracle!”
Photograph by Joann Bowell from God’s Little People
During the following weeks, Chili’s progress was uncertain at times, but he always had company. Bowell kept a close eye on him throughout the journey. Despite the challenges, Chili’s determination led to numerous victories.
For the very first time, Chili was beginning to catch up in size with his sisters.
Picture: Joan Bowell from God’s Little People
The amazing bond he has with his sisters.
“I was just about to get some food for them when all the girls climbed up from the floor and snuggled in with their brother!” Powell shared. “The same thing happened after they ate – they usually try to play with him, but they just gently positioned themselves on either side of him and fell asleep.”
Photo by Joann Bowell of God’s Little People
“As he continues to grow into a big boy, Chili still displays his babyish side by seeking out my hand for comfort sucking. After satisfying his little craving, he drifts off to sleep with a contented belly, filled not just with food, but with love and comfort.”
Chili definitely has the heartiest appetite among all the cats at the sanctuary.
Image: Joan Bowell from the organization God’s Little People captures the essence of the siblings.
“He may be smaller than his sisters, but his eyes are much larger.”
The two sisters fiercely guard their brother, who is no longer as small as he used to be.
Check out this amazing transformation captured by Joann Bowell of God’s Little People! According to Bowell, the cat’s proportions are finally starting to come together, aside from his large “tea-cup” eyes. He’s growing rapidly, but still incredibly cute. Here’s hoping those huge eyes stay the same!
Photo: Joann Bowell from God’s Little People
The kittens have grown significantly, but Chili still relies on his human mother for comfort.
“I provide food for them, and they seem content to play, frolic, and cuddle up on top of each other when they get tired. But Chili is showing me that he still needs a lot of reassurance and personal attention, so I spend a good amount of time just sitting with him and letting him suckle my hand.
“I truly believe that his beautiful little soul has recovered from his difficult start in life, but there’s no denying that the experience has left a lasting impact on his psyche. He is the most precious thing on earth, and I cherish being his human mother.”
Photo: Joann Bowell from God’s Little People captured an image of Chili. On the day Chili was found, there was uncertainty if he would survive the journey back to the house. However, he displayed a strong will to live and fought through. Bowell expressed admiration for Chili’s big paws and sturdy legs, noting his development of broad bones and a head already bigger than his sisters. Bowell predicts that Chili is going to grow into a giant based on his current size and strength.
Photo by Joan Bowell featuring the cats of God’s Little People
News flash: Chili has grown up so fast!
Look at how handsome he has grown up to be in this photo by Joann Bowell from God’s Little People!
Image: Captured by Joan Bowell from God’s Little People
