Take dire warning. This post is in the "What made me happy today" forum. Worse, a kitten is involved. Flee now!
Three days ago I heard juvenile mewing coming from our garage. I couldn't locate the source. Two days ago, same thing. There is a gap between the garage slab and the wall with an escape route.
Last night, the mewing was nonstop and continued when I went in the garage. I spoke in calm tones and after about five minutes of painful yowls a tiny kitten staggered into view, about six inches long. Its eyes were open but appeared unfocused. I made two errors of judgement.
I left the kitten, hoping its mother would claim it. I should have known that wouldn't happen, and I put out a saucer of milk. You would think cats and saucers of milk are natural companions, but after research today I know that milk or human infant formula can harm a kitten.
Fortunately, not from first hand experience. The kitten wasn't interested and it was still there this morning, now in greater distress.
I was at the local vet's door at opening time, brought the kitten in, and said the little fellow needed help. No charity work was expected, just bill me and let me go. I had to get to work.
Not necessary, they said. If I just wanted a rescue I could release the kitten to them and they would find a home.
An hour ago I called to check. The kitten had been bathed, treated for fleas, and had enjoyed a couple of kitten formula feedings. At that time, it was resting comfortably on a warm pad.
Thank God for compassionate people.