Fortunately, their survival instinct meant that staff from the Tompkins County SPCA were able to rescue them.
When the three little kittens arrived at the rescue centre, they were only 7 to 8 weeks old.
A very frightened trio
Olga, Masha and Irina were all very timid, which is not surprising after having to survive on their own in the cold on the streets. Their rescuers were more determined than ever to help them.
Thanks to their patience and lots of treats, they could see the kittens were making progress. They were placed with a fosterer named Molly to give them a chance to thrive in a safe and cosy home. When they arrived, Molly had prepared a cosy playpen for the kittens, but the trio had other plans... They jumped out of the pen to find a hiding place in the house!
Gaining their trust
Molly used several strategies to win the kittens' trust. She spoke to them constantly in a soft, caring voice. She even slept in their room to be close to them. Once Olga, Masha and Irina realised their foster family meant them no harm, their true personalities began to shine through. The three kittens turned out to be very affectionate and chatty! So much so that Molly finds it hard to believe they are the same kittens that first arrived at her home.
When Olga, Masha and Irina were finally put up for adoption, a family from another state was eagerly awaiting their arrival. They wanted to adopt all three sisters together! Olga, Masha and Irina made a seven-hour journey to their new home, where they are now thriving in a warm and loving environment!
