A cat hid her kittens in a tin barrel until help arrived. Then, she decided to try indoor living for the first time. Alley Cat RescueLate last month, the Alley Cat Rescue team rushed to help a cat who had been seen sheltering her kittens inside an old tin barrel.The young mother was exhausted but determined, doing everything she could to keep her babies safe. She nursed them and wrapped herself around their tiny bodies to keep them warm. "We found this young mother fiercely guarding her newborn kittens," Alley Cat Rescue shared. "When our team member approached, she watched with wide, fearful eyes."As the temperature began to drop, it became clear that the tin barrel was no place to raise kittens. Alley Cat RescueTo bring them to safety, the rescuer set a humane trap nearby and waited patiently for the wary mother to step inside.This devoted mama had somehow managed to keep her kittens safe and fed, scavenging for scraps to sustain herself enough to produce milk. "For countless stray and feral cats, this cycle never ends." Alley Cat Rescue"Seventy to eighty percent of kittens born outside don't survive past six months. This is why spaying and neutering saves lives. It breaks the endless cycle of suffering and gives cats a chance at healthy, peaceful lives."For the first time, the mother cat found herself in a warm, safe space. As soon as she was reunited with her four kittens, she groomed them tenderly while they nestled against her to nurse. Alley Cat RescueWithin two days, the young mom began to let her guard down. She still watched over her little ones closely but started to enjoy the comforts of indoor life: soft blankets, quiet surroundings, and an endless supply of food.Her kittens were plump and healthy thanks to her unwavering care. They wiggled and squeaked in unison whenever she took a short break to stretch and eat. Alley Cat RescueThe fear that once filled her eyes slowly melted away, replaced by calm and trust. She gratefully accepted her meals and allowed her caretakers to weigh her kittens regularly to ensure they were growing strong."This is exactly why rescue mattersevery mama and every kitten deserves a chance to grow up safe, warm, and loved." Alley Cat RescueHaving never missed a meal or a moment of affection, the kittens showed off their round bellies, newfound strength, and growing confidence. They rolled onto their backs, waving their tiny paws in the air as their budding personalities emerged."They now have a warm, dry room with soft blankets, and Mom is loving her high-calorie meals." Alley Cat RescueThis week, the kittens opened their eyes for the first time, blinking curiously at the world around them. They waddled about, eager to explore beyond their cozy nest under their mom's watchful gaze.Gone were the cold, uncertain days in the tin barrel. Now, the little family is thriving in the safety and comfort of a loving home. Alley Cat Rescue"When she was first found outside, she was desperately trying to protect her litter from the cold and wet fall weather. Mom and her babies have been living in comfort since we brought them indoors."Now, the mama radiates joy and pride with her kittens nestled beside her. Once they're weaned, she'll finally get to be a cat again, ready to find a loving home where she'll be cherished for life. Alley Cat RescueShare this story with your friends. More on the feline family and Alley Cat Rescue on Instagram and Facebook.Related story: Cat Follows Residents Around the Block Until Help Arrives, Before Long She Has Several Kittens by Her Side