Become a Monthly Donor – Save Lives Every Day
Felines of Chicago rescues cats in dire situations—injured, abandoned, and in need of urgent medical care. Cats like Hercules, Cranberry, Sam, and more wouldn’t have had a chance without the generosity of people like you.
These are all stories and cases that Felines of Chicago took on independently as a small organization, relying solely on donations to provide emergency medical care, rehabilitation, and safe placements for cats in need.
By becoming a monthly donor, you provide consistent, lifesaving support for emergency cases, medical treatments, and the long-term care our rescued cats require. Even a small monthly gift can mean the difference between life and death for a cat in crisis.
Join our community of compassionate supporters today and help us continue saving lives, one cat at a time. Become a monthly donor today.
Read below to learn more about the incredible rescue stories of the cats we've saved thanks to our supporters!
These are all stories and cases that Felines of Chicago took on independently as a small organization, relying solely on donations to provide emergency medical care, rehabilitation, and safe placements for cats in need.
By becoming a monthly donor, you provide consistent, lifesaving support for emergency cases, medical treatments, and the long-term care our rescued cats require. Even a small monthly gift can mean the difference between life and death for a cat in crisis.
Join our community of compassionate supporters today and help us continue saving lives, one cat at a time. Become a monthly donor today.
Read below to learn more about the incredible rescue stories of the cats we've saved thanks to our supporters!
Bunny's Journey: From Tragedy to Triumph
Bunny’s story began in October 2024 when a kind-hearted Good Samaritan found her injured, dragging her leg and in excruciating pain from an apparent trauma. They reached out to us, knowing she needed to be seen immediately for these injuries, and also because they suspected she was pregnant. Upon rushing her to an emergency vet with the help of Felines of Chicago, it was discovered that she was not pregnant, but had recently given birth. The rest of her medical examination revealed devastating injuries: her pelvis was broken in multiple places, and the base of her tail was severely damaged. These injuries were extensive, and it was clear that simple cage rest would not be enough. Bunny required urgent orthopedic surgery to have a chance at recovery.
Determined to give Bunny a second chance, Felines of Chicago launched a fundraiser to cover her incoming medical costs. Thanks to the incredible generosity of our supporters, Bunny was able to undergo surgery. A plate was inserted into the right side of her pelvis, and the left side was less damaged and expected to heal on its own. Initially, there were plans to amputate her tail, but since it was not an urgent procedure, it was postponed until her spay surgery. Bunny remained hospitalized for monitoring, and despite the challenges, she proved to be a fighter.
After being discharged, Bunny was placed with one of our dedicated medical fosters and also Board Director of Felines of Chicago, April aka April’s Kittens. April provided her with the specialized medical care she needed, and over the next several months, Bunny made a remarkable recovery. Though she healed well from her surgery, she was left with incontinence and requires bladder expressions. Despite this, her sweet and loving nature never wavered.
Today, Bunny is thriving and ready for her forever home. She has been waiting patiently for months, but finding adopters for incontinent cats is always a challenge. Felines of Chicago continues to sponsor her adoption fee in hopes of finding her the perfect family who will see past her medical needs and love her for the resilient and affectionate cat she is.
Bunny’s journey is a testament to the power of community and the impact of rescue organizations like Felines of Chicago. She went from a cat on the brink of despair to a happy, playful companion, thanks to the unwavering support of our fosters, donors, and volunteers. Now, she just needs a loving home to complete her story. Could you be the one to give Bunny her happily ever after. If you’re in the Chicago area and interested in adopting Bunny, please reach out. Let’s find this beautiful girl the home she deserves!
patiently for months, but finding adopters for incontinent cats is always a challenge. Felines of Chicago continues to sponsor her adoption fee in hopes of finding her the perfect family who will see past her medical needs and love her for the resilient and affectionate cat she is.
Bunny’s journey is a testament to the power of community and the impact of rescue organizations like Felines of Chicago. She went from a cat on the brink of despair to a happy, playful companion, thanks to the unwavering support of our fosters, donors, and volunteers. Now, she just needs a loving home to complete her story. Could you be the one to give Bunny her happily ever after. If you’re in the Chicago area and interested in adopting Bunny, please reach out. Let’s find this beautiful girl the home she deserves!
Determined to give Bunny a second chance, Felines of Chicago launched a fundraiser to cover her incoming medical costs. Thanks to the incredible generosity of our supporters, Bunny was able to undergo surgery. A plate was inserted into the right side of her pelvis, and the left side was less damaged and expected to heal on its own. Initially, there were plans to amputate her tail, but since it was not an urgent procedure, it was postponed until her spay surgery. Bunny remained hospitalized for monitoring, and despite the challenges, she proved to be a fighter.
After being discharged, Bunny was placed with one of our dedicated medical fosters and also Board Director of Felines of Chicago, April aka April’s Kittens. April provided her with the specialized medical care she needed, and over the next several months, Bunny made a remarkable recovery. Though she healed well from her surgery, she was left with incontinence and requires bladder expressions. Despite this, her sweet and loving nature never wavered.
Today, Bunny is thriving and ready for her forever home. She has been waiting patiently for months, but finding adopters for incontinent cats is always a challenge. Felines of Chicago continues to sponsor her adoption fee in hopes of finding her the perfect family who will see past her medical needs and love her for the resilient and affectionate cat she is.
Bunny’s journey is a testament to the power of community and the impact of rescue organizations like Felines of Chicago. She went from a cat on the brink of despair to a happy, playful companion, thanks to the unwavering support of our fosters, donors, and volunteers. Now, she just needs a loving home to complete her story. Could you be the one to give Bunny her happily ever after. If you’re in the Chicago area and interested in adopting Bunny, please reach out. Let’s find this beautiful girl the home she deserves!
patiently for months, but finding adopters for incontinent cats is always a challenge. Felines of Chicago continues to sponsor her adoption fee in hopes of finding her the perfect family who will see past her medical needs and love her for the resilient and affectionate cat she is.
Bunny’s journey is a testament to the power of community and the impact of rescue organizations like Felines of Chicago. She went from a cat on the brink of despair to a happy, playful companion, thanks to the unwavering support of our fosters, donors, and volunteers. Now, she just needs a loving home to complete her story. Could you be the one to give Bunny her happily ever after. If you’re in the Chicago area and interested in adopting Bunny, please reach out. Let’s find this beautiful girl the home she deserves!
Captain Jack Sparrow & Scrub Daddy: A TAIL of Rescue and Recovery
It all began with a shocking message, a foster in our community was contacted by a scrapyard employee, after spotting a cat on their property with paralyzed back legs, dragging himself through the dangerous environment. They immediately reached out to Felines of Chicago for help, knowing the situation needed immediate attention to get this cat the care it needed. When our dedicated director, April, and fellow foster, Carol, arrived at the scene, they were unable to locate the injured cat, but were met with a heartbreaking discovery—numerous other cats and kittens struggling to survive in the hazardous conditions. Among them, two particular felines stood out due to their evident injuries and friendly nature. Without hesitation, they were scooped up and taken to receive the urgent medical care they desperately needed.
Once at the vet, it was confirmed that both cats had sustained significant injuries. Captain Jack Sparrow, a striking tabby and white cat, had a broken pelvis and required FHO (femoral head ostectomy) surgery to restore mobility to his hind leg. While his pelvis would heal on its own without surgical intervention, the procedure would still cost $1,800. Scrub Daddy, the charming orange cat, had a severe foot infection requiring antibiotics. The total cost for their examinations and surgery reached $2,109, prompting Felines of Chicago to launch a fundraising effort to ensure these deserving cats received the care they needed.
With the generosity of our supporters, both Captain Jack Sparrow and Scrub Daddy were able to receive the medical treatment essential to their recovery. Scrub Daddy soon found his way to CatNap From The Heart, where his sweet nature quickly won over a loving family, leading to his adoption. Scrub Daddy soon found his way to CatNap From The Heart, where his sweet nature quickly won over a loving family, leading to his adoption. Captain Jack Sparrow, after undergoing his surgery, continued his recovery journey with Paws and Claws Cat Rescue, where he was given the new name Boxelder. There, he received continued rehabilitation and care, paving the way for a bright future.
Their stories are a testament to the resilience of rescue animals and the power of a compassionate community. What began as a simple call for help led to a life-changing journey for these two cats, transforming their lives from struggle to safety and love. Thanks to our incredible fosters, donors, and partner rescues, both Captain Jack Sparrow (Boxelder) and Scrub Daddy have been given the second chances they so greatly deserved.
To read more about Boxelder’s journey at Paws and Claws, visit: Boxelder’s Story. Every rescue story is a reminder of why we do what we do. Thank you for being part of these happy endings!
Once at the vet, it was confirmed that both cats had sustained significant injuries. Captain Jack Sparrow, a striking tabby and white cat, had a broken pelvis and required FHO (femoral head ostectomy) surgery to restore mobility to his hind leg. While his pelvis would heal on its own without surgical intervention, the procedure would still cost $1,800. Scrub Daddy, the charming orange cat, had a severe foot infection requiring antibiotics. The total cost for their examinations and surgery reached $2,109, prompting Felines of Chicago to launch a fundraising effort to ensure these deserving cats received the care they needed.
With the generosity of our supporters, both Captain Jack Sparrow and Scrub Daddy were able to receive the medical treatment essential to their recovery. Scrub Daddy soon found his way to CatNap From The Heart, where his sweet nature quickly won over a loving family, leading to his adoption. Scrub Daddy soon found his way to CatNap From The Heart, where his sweet nature quickly won over a loving family, leading to his adoption. Captain Jack Sparrow, after undergoing his surgery, continued his recovery journey with Paws and Claws Cat Rescue, where he was given the new name Boxelder. There, he received continued rehabilitation and care, paving the way for a bright future.
Their stories are a testament to the resilience of rescue animals and the power of a compassionate community. What began as a simple call for help led to a life-changing journey for these two cats, transforming their lives from struggle to safety and love. Thanks to our incredible fosters, donors, and partner rescues, both Captain Jack Sparrow (Boxelder) and Scrub Daddy have been given the second chances they so greatly deserved.
To read more about Boxelder’s journey at Paws and Claws, visit: Boxelder’s Story. Every rescue story is a reminder of why we do what we do. Thank you for being part of these happy endings!
Cranberry's Journey: A Thanksgiving Miracle
Cranberry’s story began on a cold Thanksgiving week in 2024 when a compassionate foster contacted Felines of Chicago about a heartbreaking situation. Her neighbor had cruelly abandoned his cat outside, knowing he was suffering. Cranberry had been unable to urinate for days, dripping blood, and struggling to walk due to excruciating pain. Recognizing the urgency, our team acted fast—urinary blockages in cats are fatal if left untreated. Cranberry was immediately rushed to the Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG), where he received emergency care to relieve his blockage.
After his initial procedure, Cranberry was discharged the following day, but the relief was short-lived. By Wednesday morning, he had reblocked and was once again in severe distress. With Thanksgiving approaching, most veterinary clinics were closed, leaving us with a difficult decision. Keeping him hospitalized at an emergency clinic with a urinary catheter was financially overwhelming, but without intervention, he would not survive. After consulting with multiple veterinarians, we found an alternative: a perineal urethrostomy (PU) surgery, a long-term solution to prevent further blockages. Thankfully, we secured a spot at a clinic that remained open over the holiday, ensuring Cranberry could receive the life-saving procedure.
Cranberry underwent PU surgery on Wednesday and remained at the clinic for post-surgical recovery. After a few days of healing, he returned to his foster home, shaken but safe. His foster provided him with the love and patience he needed to decompress from the chaos and pain he had endured. The financial burden of his care increased to $2,800, but thanks to the generosity of our incredible community, we were able to cover his medical expenses and give him the fresh start he deserved.
Months later, Cranberry continued his recovery journey in multiple foster homes, where we learned he prefers to be the only cat in the household. He eventually found a foster home where he truly thrived. His foster describes him as a sweet but independent boy who enjoys cuddles on his terms, loves to play, and frequently shows off his zoomies. He has even taken on the role of an enthusiastic work-from-home coworker, often helping with keyboard duties.
Now, Cranberry is ready for his forever home. After everything he has endured, he deserves a loving family who will cherish him and ensure he never has to suffer again. He is available for adoption through our incredible rescue partner, Forever Fortunate Felines. If you’re looking for a resilient, affectionate, and playful companion, Cranberry may be the perfect addition to your home. Cranberry’s story is a testament to the power of swift action, compassionate care, and community support. He went from a cat abandoned in agony to one given a second chance at life. Now, all he needs is a place to call home. Could you be the one to complete his journey. If you're interested in adopting Cranberry, reach out to Forever Fortunate Felines today!
After his initial procedure, Cranberry was discharged the following day, but the relief was short-lived. By Wednesday morning, he had reblocked and was once again in severe distress. With Thanksgiving approaching, most veterinary clinics were closed, leaving us with a difficult decision. Keeping him hospitalized at an emergency clinic with a urinary catheter was financially overwhelming, but without intervention, he would not survive. After consulting with multiple veterinarians, we found an alternative: a perineal urethrostomy (PU) surgery, a long-term solution to prevent further blockages. Thankfully, we secured a spot at a clinic that remained open over the holiday, ensuring Cranberry could receive the life-saving procedure.
Cranberry underwent PU surgery on Wednesday and remained at the clinic for post-surgical recovery. After a few days of healing, he returned to his foster home, shaken but safe. His foster provided him with the love and patience he needed to decompress from the chaos and pain he had endured. The financial burden of his care increased to $2,800, but thanks to the generosity of our incredible community, we were able to cover his medical expenses and give him the fresh start he deserved.
Months later, Cranberry continued his recovery journey in multiple foster homes, where we learned he prefers to be the only cat in the household. He eventually found a foster home where he truly thrived. His foster describes him as a sweet but independent boy who enjoys cuddles on his terms, loves to play, and frequently shows off his zoomies. He has even taken on the role of an enthusiastic work-from-home coworker, often helping with keyboard duties.
Now, Cranberry is ready for his forever home. After everything he has endured, he deserves a loving family who will cherish him and ensure he never has to suffer again. He is available for adoption through our incredible rescue partner, Forever Fortunate Felines. If you’re looking for a resilient, affectionate, and playful companion, Cranberry may be the perfect addition to your home. Cranberry’s story is a testament to the power of swift action, compassionate care, and community support. He went from a cat abandoned in agony to one given a second chance at life. Now, all he needs is a place to call home. Could you be the one to complete his journey. If you're interested in adopting Cranberry, reach out to Forever Fortunate Felines today!
Sam’s Incredible Comeback: From the Brink of Death to a Forever Home
In August 2024, a concerned community member posted a heartbreaking photo of a tiny kitten lying helpless in the grass outside his home. The kitten, later named Sam, was on the verge of death. His frail body was emaciated, his face crusted over from a severe upper respiratory infection (URI), and his temperature was so low it didn’t even register on the thermometer. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, a compassionate member of our Felines of Chicago network, Terri, rushed to the scene and immediately transported Sam to the Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG) for critical care.
Upon intake, Sam’s prognosis was grim. He was severely dehydrated, battling anemia, and his white blood cell count was dangerously low. Despite receiving fluids and medication, his condition remained critical overnight. The following morning, the vet warned that Sam had shown little improvement—he was dull, lethargic, and barely responsive. Our team faced an agonizing decision: should we continue treatment or prepare for the worst?
Just as we were discussing next steps, we received an unexpected update—Sam had suddenly perked up, climbing the walls of his cage as if he knew he had to fight. That moment of resilience was all we needed to know—Sam wasn’t ready to give up, and neither were we. We extended his hospitalization for another 12 hours, determined to give him every possible chance at survival.
Slowly but surely, Sam began showing signs of recovery. By the next evening, he was strong enough to be discharged, and one of the incredible VEG vet techs, who had cared for him during his stay, volunteered to foster him temporarily. The outpouring of support from our community was overwhelming, helping us cover the majority of his hospitalization costs. Although Sam still had a long way to go, he was finally in a safe, loving environment where he could continue healing.
Over the next few days, Sam’s foster worked tirelessly to help him regain his strength. He remained affectionate and full of purrs but struggled to eat on his own. With continued syringe feeding and patient encouragement, he gradually gained the strength to take his first independent bites. The dedicated VEG team continued monitoring him during the foster’s shifts, ensuring he received top-tier care.
Weeks later, Sam’s transformation was nothing short of miraculous. From a kitten barely clinging to life, he blossomed into a playful, affectionate little survivor. And the best news of all, Sam found his forever home! His foster-to-adopt placement turned into a full-fledged adoption, giving him the loving family he always deserved.
Sam’s journey is a testament to the power of community, compassion, and second chances. From the kind stranger who first posted about him to the rescuer who rushed to save him to the generous donors who funded his medical care, every single person played a part in Sam’s survival. Now, he’s thriving in his forever home, enjoying the kittenhood he almost didn’t get to have.
Thank you to everyone who followed, donated, and shared Sam’s story. Together, we made a difference in his life, and his journey will continue to inspire us to fight for every cat who needs a second chance.
Upon intake, Sam’s prognosis was grim. He was severely dehydrated, battling anemia, and his white blood cell count was dangerously low. Despite receiving fluids and medication, his condition remained critical overnight. The following morning, the vet warned that Sam had shown little improvement—he was dull, lethargic, and barely responsive. Our team faced an agonizing decision: should we continue treatment or prepare for the worst?
Just as we were discussing next steps, we received an unexpected update—Sam had suddenly perked up, climbing the walls of his cage as if he knew he had to fight. That moment of resilience was all we needed to know—Sam wasn’t ready to give up, and neither were we. We extended his hospitalization for another 12 hours, determined to give him every possible chance at survival.
Slowly but surely, Sam began showing signs of recovery. By the next evening, he was strong enough to be discharged, and one of the incredible VEG vet techs, who had cared for him during his stay, volunteered to foster him temporarily. The outpouring of support from our community was overwhelming, helping us cover the majority of his hospitalization costs. Although Sam still had a long way to go, he was finally in a safe, loving environment where he could continue healing.
Over the next few days, Sam’s foster worked tirelessly to help him regain his strength. He remained affectionate and full of purrs but struggled to eat on his own. With continued syringe feeding and patient encouragement, he gradually gained the strength to take his first independent bites. The dedicated VEG team continued monitoring him during the foster’s shifts, ensuring he received top-tier care.
Weeks later, Sam’s transformation was nothing short of miraculous. From a kitten barely clinging to life, he blossomed into a playful, affectionate little survivor. And the best news of all, Sam found his forever home! His foster-to-adopt placement turned into a full-fledged adoption, giving him the loving family he always deserved.
Sam’s journey is a testament to the power of community, compassion, and second chances. From the kind stranger who first posted about him to the rescuer who rushed to save him to the generous donors who funded his medical care, every single person played a part in Sam’s survival. Now, he’s thriving in his forever home, enjoying the kittenhood he almost didn’t get to have.
Thank you to everyone who followed, donated, and shared Sam’s story. Together, we made a difference in his life, and his journey will continue to inspire us to fight for every cat who needs a second chance.
Hercules: A Fighter’s Journey to a New Life
In November of 2024, Felines of Chicago received an urgent plea for help. A tiny, injured kitten had been found outside, his face severely infected and his eyes beyond saving. Without immediate medical care, his future was uncertain. We named him Hercules for his strength in the face of unthinkable pain.
A dedicated foster rushed to pick him up, and as soon as they saw him, they knew he needed emergency care. His eyes were swollen shut, abscesses covered his tiny face, and infection had set deep into his fragile body. Hercules was immediately transported to the vet, where he was sedated for a full examination. Bloodwork confirmed our fears—his infection was severe, and his little body was battling anemia. But despite the odds, he was stable enough for surgery.
The veterinarians acted quickly. They removed one of his eyes, discovering hidden pockets of infection stretching beyond his eyes and into his ears and neck. Two surgical drains were placed to help his body fight the infection, and he was started on IV antibiotics. His condition was critical, but Hercules was a fighter.
The next day, with heavy pain medication and a long road ahead, Hercules was discharged into the loving care of one of our fosters and board members, April. For weeks, he healed, growing stronger every day. His trust in humans began to blossom, and despite the trauma he had endured, he showed nothing but gentleness and love.
After his first surgery, Hercules faced one final hurdle—his second eye removal. As he healed, he began adjusting to life as a blind kitty, slowly learning to navigate the world without sight. Though timid at first, he found comfort in the warmth of a lap and the gentle touch of those who cared for him.
Months later, fully healed and ready for his next chapter, Hercules found his forever home. A quiet, loving family welcomed him with open arms, giving him the safe and peaceful life he always deserved. No longer an abandoned, suffering kitten, Hercules transformed into the affectionate, trusting cat he was meant to be.
From the brink of despair to a life filled with love, Hercules' journey is a testament to the power of rescue, compassion, and the unwavering
spirit of a tiny kitten who refused to give up.
A dedicated foster rushed to pick him up, and as soon as they saw him, they knew he needed emergency care. His eyes were swollen shut, abscesses covered his tiny face, and infection had set deep into his fragile body. Hercules was immediately transported to the vet, where he was sedated for a full examination. Bloodwork confirmed our fears—his infection was severe, and his little body was battling anemia. But despite the odds, he was stable enough for surgery.
The veterinarians acted quickly. They removed one of his eyes, discovering hidden pockets of infection stretching beyond his eyes and into his ears and neck. Two surgical drains were placed to help his body fight the infection, and he was started on IV antibiotics. His condition was critical, but Hercules was a fighter.
The next day, with heavy pain medication and a long road ahead, Hercules was discharged into the loving care of one of our fosters and board members, April. For weeks, he healed, growing stronger every day. His trust in humans began to blossom, and despite the trauma he had endured, he showed nothing but gentleness and love.
After his first surgery, Hercules faced one final hurdle—his second eye removal. As he healed, he began adjusting to life as a blind kitty, slowly learning to navigate the world without sight. Though timid at first, he found comfort in the warmth of a lap and the gentle touch of those who cared for him.
Months later, fully healed and ready for his next chapter, Hercules found his forever home. A quiet, loving family welcomed him with open arms, giving him the safe and peaceful life he always deserved. No longer an abandoned, suffering kitten, Hercules transformed into the affectionate, trusting cat he was meant to be.
From the brink of despair to a life filled with love, Hercules' journey is a testament to the power of rescue, compassion, and the unwavering
spirit of a tiny kitten who refused to give up.