Fairhaven Kitten’s Story Takes a Hopeful Turn After Rescue

After tugging at the heartstrings of the SouthCoast earlier this week, we finally have a hopeful update on the injured kitten rescued by Fairhaven Police Officer Patrick Clafflin on Monday, December 8. I promise, it's good news.

The kitten has been under the care of New England Animal Hospital in Fairhaven since the rescue, and according to the animal hospital, she’s proving to be one tough little fighter.

In fact, one of the hospital employees took her home for the night, where she happily ate, drank water, curled up, and went right to sleep. By morning, she was back at the hospital, stealing the hearts of the staff.

Meet Noel: The 3-Month-Old Fighter

I called over thereand spoke with Kaitlyn Feola, who shared all the details about the kitten, now officially named "Noel."

READ MORE: Fairhaven Officer Crawls Under Porch to Save Injured Kitten

She’s about three months old and doing better overall, but she still cannot use her right front leg, which she’s currently dragging due to severe nerve damage. The good news is that Noel is eating like a champ, taking all of her medication, and slowly coming out of her shell.

“She’s timid at first, but she’s opening up,” Feola told me. “She’s adventurous, she’s beautiful, and she deserves the best.”

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A Street Kitty With a Big Personality

Noel was originally found on the streets, but you’d never guess it by her personality. According to Feola, once she comes out of her crate, she turns into a total love bug.

She’s curious, vocal, and already letting everyone know when she wants food and attention – which, let’s be honest, is classic kitten behavior. Despite everything she’s been through, her spirit is strong.

What Happens Next

Because Noel is still growing, doctors won’t know for some time how her injured leg will ultimately heal. While there is no break, the nerve damage is significant, and there is a possibility that amputation could be needed down the road. For now, the focus is on healing, growth, and stability. She’s also being treated for worms.

To make sure Noel gets the best possible care, Feola will be fostering her for the next few months, allowing for consistent monitoring and plenty of hands-on love until doctors can determine the long-term outlook for her leg.

From being struck and trapped under a porch to finding herself surrounded by compassion, care, and medical support, Noel has already come a long way in just a few short days.

None of it would’ve been possible without one officer who went above and beyond to save Noel's life.