Transformed Ex-Feral Tomcat Embraces Role Of Affectionate 'Mama Bear' To Foster Kittens

"While recovering, he turned out to be the sweetest cat in the world."

Damjan

• Published in Animal Stories
• July 25, 2023

Change is a vital part of life, and it is not only confined to humans. Animals, too, have an incredible capacity for transformation, especially when showered with love and care. In fact, sometimes, the most profound changes we witness come from the most unexpected sources.

Take, for instance, the remarkable story of Bear, a once-feral tomcat, who transformed into a nurturing figure for foster kittens. In 2018, a dedicated animal rescuer named Haley, endearingly referred to as the "feeder of cats," found herself caring for a sick and injured feral cat, Bear, in California.

The downpour of rain mirrored the desperation of the situation when Haley pleaded with the stray cat to enter the trap she had set. She was aware that the cat, visibly ill and wounded, stood a meager chance of survival if left on the streets.

Back then, Bear was far from being a docile pet. He limped, hissed, and would swat and bite as a self-protective response conditioned by his harsh street life.

Presumed to be about eight years old, Bear appeared as a toughened tomcat, hardened by the adversities he had to face. Yet, the transformative power of love and patience soon started to show.

Haley, determined not to give up, showered him with care, affection, and an endless supply of delicious treats. Over time, Bear's aggression began to recede.

The cat, once so used to the dangerous life on the streets, started adapting to his new, safer environment. As Bear healed from his injuries, both physical and emotional, he grew to become an invaluable member of Haley's family.

His story serves as a poignant reminder that love and patience can indeed change lives, be it humans or animals. Bear, the once-feral tomcat, had transformed into a sweet and caring companion, proving that it was never too late for a second chance at life.

n 2018, a dedicated animal rescuer named Haley, endearingly referred to as the "feeder of cats," found herself caring for a sick and injured feral cat, Bear, in California.

Back then, Bear was far from being a docile pet. He limped, hissed, and would swat and bite as a self-protective response conditioned by his harsh street life.

“While recovering, he turned out to be the sweetest cat in the world. Ever? Has FHV and refractory stomatitis, no teeth. Best cat award,” Haley shared on Twitter.

Haley meticulously rehabilitated Bear, and he blossomed into an incredibly affectionate lap cat. Further down the line, Bear turned out to be a surprising boon for Haley, taking on the role of a foster parent to rescue kittens, caring for them as though he were their mother!

As Bear became more accustomed to the comfortable life of a domestic cat, his gentle and caring nature increasingly emerged. It was at this point that Haley cautiously began to introduce him to the foster kittens.

Bear proved to be an instinctive caregiver, showing affection to each kitten and engaging in play and nap time with them. Every day, he acted as a mentor to the young kittens, teaching them the rules of the feline world, including setting boundaries and mastering the art of being a cat.

His guidance ensured that when it was time for these kittens to embark on their journey to their forever homes, they were well-prepared, well-adjusted, and more likely to find a loving home quickly.

“Bear loves to help with the foster kittens,” Haley shared.

“When your former feral male cat takes on a mothering role for the insane kitten,” the caption reads.

In one instance, a foster kitten named Bernadette (or Bern) formed such a strong bond with Bear that the family decided to adopt her permanently. A classic case of a foster fail!

“The look on his face in the last vid 😂. Every people parent or pet parent knows that feeling,” one person commented on Instagram.

Sadly, Bear, the much-adored ex-feral cat, passed away unexpectedly in May 2023. We extend our heartfelt condolences and soothing purrs to Haley and the multitude of Bear's admirers on TikTok and Twitter.

We recount his story as a tribute to his memory. Bear led an incredible life, a testament to Haley's love and care. His journey Is the best proof that former feral cats can, at times, turn into the most wonderful companions.

Damjan