Calling all Angels — for “Bottle Babies”

Bottle Babies are kittens or puppies who have no parent to nurse them so rely entirely on being bottle fed until until they are ready for solid food.

Caring for bottle babies is a profound labor of love. The love is fulfilling, the labor exhausting. The first days, a person caring for bottle babies will need to rise every hour or two to feed.

Marnie McCammon of Springfield unexpectedly became a “bottle baby mom” a few years ago after her son called from work saying an abandoned kitten had been found.

Marnie immediately went to Coburg, picked up the baby, then bottles and formula. on her way home.

“The call came out of the blue, and it was shocking. My son said there was only one kitten. By the time I got supplies he called again saying there were three more.”

The following weeks were “one of the most rewarding experiences of my life,” Marnie says. “I became the mom, and they treated me like I was their mom.”

With the guidance of Save the Pets rescue, Marnie fostered the kittens. They were spayed and neutered when ready, then placed in loving homes. “All found homes,” Marnie says, “and some of them I’ve been able to keep track of after getting to know their families.

Bottle feeding is a lot of work. It is also hugely rewarding to know you’re saving a little one’s life.

“This was the most rewarding experience I’ve ever had,” says Marnie. “I always said when I retire I’m going to bottle feed kittens.”

If you feel you might have the gift of caring for bottle babies, please check with your local animal shelters and rescues. Doing the work of an angel is tough indeed, but can be one of the most gratifying, memorable things you’ll ever do.