Who could ignore a tiny kitten struggling to cross the road? Even if you’re not a cat person, chances are you’d stop to help a baby animal in need. That’s exactly what happened to Robert Brantley of Louisiana.
On his way to work, Brantley spotted a small white and gray kitten attempting to make its way across the street. Being a good Samaritan, he pulled over to rescue the little one. But as soon as he scooped up the kitten, he realized he had signed up for much more than expected—because suddenly, a whole swarm of tiny siblings came darting out of the tall grass.
In total, Brantley found himself with 13 kittens—12 more than he ever planned on taking home. But judging by his Instagram updates, he and his family have fully embraced their unexpected role as kitten rescuers.
With kitten season in full swing and shelters across the country overflowing, Brantley’s decision to foster this furry dozen-plus-one couldn’t have come at a better time. Many humane societies are stretched beyond capacity, struggling to keep up with the sheer number of surrendered and stray animals. My own local shelter is currently housing nearly 150 animals over its limit and is pleading for foster families to step in.
It’s not just shelters feeling the strain—rescue organizations everywhere are overwhelmed. Spring and summer bring an influx of newborn kittens and puppies, and facilities simply don’t have enough space for them all. That’s why some shelters are encouraging people to follow Brantley’s example: foster strays they find and help adopt them out instead of immediately surrendering them.
Brantley’s wife has fully leaned into the rescue effort, even setting up a makeshift photo studio to show off the kittens in their best light. One little feline sported a bow tie, while the others eagerly awaited their turn to pose. And Brantley himself is making the best of the situation—one video humorously details what he packs for a marksmanship match, casually including “13 kittens” alongside his tripod and toolkit.
In a recent update, Brantley shared that two of the kittens—Michael Scott and Nala—have already found a home with a family in Alexandria, Louisiana. Meanwhile, one kitten still awaiting adoption is on daily medication, but the Brantleys are keeping up with vet visits to ensure the whole crew stays healthy.
Here’s hoping the rest of these little fluffballs find loving homes soon! And maybe Brantley’s story will inspire more people to foster stray kittens or puppies when they can. It’s also a great reminder of the importance of spaying and neutering pets—including any strays you might be caring for outside.