Meet Bindi and Bellingham

Bindi and Bellingham spent the first six months of their lives in a tiny bathroom, part of a litter of eleven. The elderly woman who took them in from the shelter had kind intentions, but the crowded, confined space wasn’t the safest start for such young kittens. When word of their situation reached our foster network, I was asked to take in three of the most vulnerable—thanks to my previous success with Molly.

True to my A–Z naming tradition, I called them Bindi, Bellingham, and Briar Rose.

I welcomed the challenge, and within twenty-four hours, two of the three had made themselves at home. Bindi and Bellingham explored every corner of the room, curling up together between playful spurts as I gently worked to gain Briar Rose’s trust. She was cautious—hissing, swiping, and refusing to be touched. But after a week of patience, she softened. Just like her namesake, she tucked her claws away and blossomed into the affectionate rose I knew she could be.

Despite her rocky start, Briar Rose was the first to be adopted—even though she hissed, clawed, and peed on her adopter during their first meeting! I reassured him: give her time and space, and she’ll love you back. We agreed on a one-month trial. A week later, he sent me a photo of her napping on his chest, completely at ease.

Of the trio, Bindi was the most timid. She rarely ventured far without Bellingham close by. Her brother, calm and confident, always seemed to keep a watchful eye on her. They ate side by side, shared a bed, and even used the litter box together. I tried separating them once or twice, but while Bellingham adjusted easily, Bindi would retreat and shut down. It was clear—they were a bonded pair.

Their adopter was looking for mature kittens: independent, but still up for cuddles and a treat or two. She was surprised by their size—especially Bellingham—but quickly fell in love with their sweet, gentle natures.

Last I heard, Bindi is still trailing after Bellingham wherever he goes. Some things never change.

If you are interested in fostering or adopting in the Los Angeles area, please consider Kitty of Angels. Alternatively, please reach out to your local human society or community shelter and see how you can foster, adopt or volunteer!