A scruffy kitten from the shelter began to shine when she realized she no longer had to fight. SmudgeSavingGraceRescueA tiny orphaned kitten arrived at Animal Control, in desperate need of rescue.She was dirty, covered in lice, and far too small for her age. Terrified, she huddled in the corner of a cardboard box, hissing at anyone who came near. But behind those fearful eyes was a sweet little soul just waiting to be loved.When volunteers at Saving Grace Rescue learned about her, they immediately stepped in to help. SavingGraceRescueJoyce, one of the rescue's volunteers, opened her home to the kitten named Smudge. The first order of business was a warm bath to rid her of lice and dirt. Once all cleaned, her fur fluffed up, revealing the little beauty beneath the grime.At just 14.6 ounces, she had a lot of growing to do, but she was finally safe. SavingGraceRescueThe fear in her eyes faded as she realized she no longer had to fend for herself. Hearing the footsteps of other animals in the house sparked her curiosity, and soon she was peeking out with wide-eyed wonder.For the first time, Smudge didn't have to worry about where her next meal would come from. She could simply be a kitten. SavingGraceRescueJoyce scooped her up and gently stroked her, reassuring her she was safe. Smudge quickly discovered her favorite spot, tucked snugly under Joyce's shirt. After a rough start, she leaned into her foster mom, soaking up all the affection.But just as Smudge was settling in, she faced another hurdle. A sudden medical emergency sent her to the ER. SavingGraceRescueThe veterinary team acted quickly, giving her the treatment she needed for a full recovery. During her stay, a staff member at the front desk fell head over heels for the little fighter and never forgot her.Smudge was so tiny that even the smallest cone wouldn't fit, so the team improvised, crafting a makeshift cone from a paper cup to keep her safe as she healed. SavingGraceRescueWith proper care, good food, and an endless supply of love, Smudge began to thrive. Her playful spirit emerged as she bounced around the house, exploring every corner. She quickly befriended the resident dog, Callista, and a family cat, Roo.When she wasn't patrolling the house or turning random places into playgrounds, she could be found curled up in a warm lap, purring herself to sleep. Callista and SmudgeSavingGraceRescueSmudge blossomed into a full-fledged cuddle bug, always seeking affection. Roo took her under her wing, grooming her, keeping her company, and teaching her the ways of a house cat.The once-lonely kitten was overjoyed to have a mama figure doting on her. Roo and SmudgeSavingGraceRescueWhen Smudge was finally ready for adoption, someone special had been waiting for her all along. The ER staff member who had fallen in love with Smudge sent in an adoption application, eager to make her part of the family.It was love at first sight all over again. SavingGraceRescueYesterday, Smudge officially graduated from foster care and went home with her new family, where she will be adored and pampered endlessly.Thanks to the dedicated volunteers, Smudge has grown into a playful, affectionate young cat with a personality that could melt even the hardest of hearts. Smudge has found her forever familySavingGraceRescueShare this story with your friends. More cats and kittens like Smudge at Saving Grace Rescue on Instagram@savinggracerescue and Facebook. Thanks to Joyce @kangaroothekitty.Related story: They Give Two Kittens Home But Then Realize There's One More and Return to Complete the Trio