After the Blue Cut Fire scorched thousands of acres and burned hundreds of homes near the Cajon Pass east of Los Angeles, some little survivors were left in its path.
Eight kittens were found at the residence of an evacuee who had lost not only his home, but two cats that died inside. Rescuer Beth Eilers, along with the help of the San Bernardino County Sheriff's office, set traps before residents were allowed to come back to the area.
The kittens are all recovering under the care of Parkview Pet Clinic in Glendale.
All eight of the kittens experienced some sort of burn trauma, including stomach burns, lost nails and burned ears, with the worst damage to the whiskers and paws.
"The main thing we had to do intensively was fluid therapy because of malnutrition and burns caused by dehydration," Parkview's hospital manager Jasmine Arthur said.
Several of the kittens have been turned over to non-intensive care and have not exhibited signs of smoke inhalation, according to Arthur.
Once the kittens are well enough to receive preventative care such as spaying and neutering, they will all be adopted out. Arthur expects the kittens to be up for adoption within four weeks.
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Although the kittens are acting timid due to their experiences, Arthur expects each kitten to develop their personalities soon, which will help to determine whether each kitten should live alone or in companionship with other felines.
Donations are being taken to help with the medical costs of all eight kittens, with a goal of $5,300. Those interested in adoption can send a message to the Blue Cut Fire Miracle Kittens Facebook page.
