When Amelia Riedler, vice president of Newborn Kitten Rescue, took in four 3-week-old kittens from the Arizona Humane Society two months ago, she had no idea that one of them would be a fighter. Lexus, a torbie kitten, was soon diagnosed with pneumonia and feline panleukopenia – and appeared to be losing the battle against illness. Yet this little kitten refused to give up and demonstrated an incredible will to live. Thanks to the excellent care Riedler and her team at Newborn Kitten Rescue Center, Lexus is now on the road to recovery!
Riedler said Lexus started to fall apart just two days after they took in the kittens. “She was taken to the emergency room and diagnosed with pneumonia and feline panleukopenia.” Feline panleukopenia is a highly contagious viral disease that can be deadly for young kittens, and Lexus was fighting a severe case.
Despite the odds stacked against her, Lexus fought hard for her life. Riedler said that the kitten “would not give up” and slowly started to improve with round-the-clock care. After two weeks of treatment, Lexus was finally beginning to turn the corner – and Riedler credits her impressive fighting spirit for her progress.
“She is the strongest little fighter I have ever seen,” Riedler said. “She never gave up and just kept getting better each day. I am so proud of her!”
She gradually found her voice again, and once she did, she spoke with an irresistibly sweet husky meow. She had no problem communicating her desire for hugs and being petted, quickly winning over the entire staff.
Lexus is a happy and healthy kitten who loves to play and cuddle. She’s come so far from the sick little kitten fighting for her life – and Riedler says she’s an inspiration to everyone at the center.
“She is such a sweetheart and has stolen all of our hearts,” Riedler told. “She is an amazing little fighter, and we are so grateful that she is here with us today!”
