Upon arriving at her foster home from the shelter, mom cat Smokey, along with her six adorable kittens, was warmly welcomed by Asa, a dedicated volunteer from the Animal Welfare League of Arlington.
![smokey 11 smokey 11](https://welovecatsandkittens.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/smokey-11.jpg)
Asa thoughtfully prepared a serene and cozy space for the seven-member family, allowing Smokey some well-deserved downtime.
![smokey 5 smokey 5](https://welovecatsandkittens.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/smokey-5.jpeg)
Evidently more relaxed in this homey environment, Smokey comfortably embraced her maternal responsibilities.
![smokey and salami smokey and salami](https://welovecatsandkittens.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/smokey-and-salami.jpg)
In the midst of her kittens nursing, the sight of Smokey's tongue peeking out was a testament to her contentment.
![smokey 8 smokey 8](https://welovecatsandkittens.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/smokey-8.jpg)
With six little ones to feed, she consumed a hearty amount of food daily, ensuring each of her kittens was well-fed and immaculately groomed.
“Mama Smokey gobbles up at least 6 cans of food every day to keep up with her 6 growing babies,”
![smokey 6 smokey 6](https://welovecatsandkittens.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/smokey-6.jpeg)
Whenever Asa stepped into the room, Smokey was more than happy to have a brief respite, taking the opportunity to stretch and rejuvenate.
"As relaxed as she is, Smokey is truly an exceptional mother. She's so easy-going, even when her kittens are being handled," Asa fondly remarked.
![smokey 1 smokey 1](https://welovecatsandkittens.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/smokey-1.jpg)
As weeks went by, the kittens flourished, each showcasing their unique personalities.
Among the litter, five kittens sported a gray hue, named with delightful culinary themes:
There's Chorizo...
![chorizo chorizo](https://welovecatsandkittens.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/chorizo.jpg)
Pepperoni...
![pepperoni pepperoni](https://welovecatsandkittens.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/pepperoni.jpg)
Salami...
![salami salami](https://welovecatsandkittens.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/salami.jpg)
Prosciutto...
![Prosciutto Prosciutto](https://welovecatsandkittens.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Prosciutto.jpg)
Pastrami...
![pastrami pastrami](https://welovecatsandkittens.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/pastrami.jpg)
And standing out is Spam!
A charming black and white kitten with a penchant for mischief.
![spam spam](https://welovecatsandkittens.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/spam.jpg)
"In a sea of gray, Spam is distinct not only in color but in character too," Asa observed.
Starting as the most attention-seeking kitten, she matured into an audacious little furball, playing with Smokey's tail and ensuring she's the center of attention even during meal times.
![smokey 3 smokey 3](https://welovecatsandkittens.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/smokey-3.jpeg)
Recognizing the challenges of nurturing six kittens, Asa enlisted the help of her dependable sidekick, Kona, a cat-loving dog.
Respectful and maternal, Kona seamlessly integrated into the foster environment, immediately bonding with the kittens.
![smokey 7 smokey 7](https://welovecatsandkittens.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/smokey-7.jpg)
Smokey, witnessing Kona's affection for her kittens, radiated contentment.
"Kona once playfully 'borrowed' a kitten, and Smokey remained unfazed," Asa noted with amusement.
![smokey 4 smokey 4](https://welovecatsandkittens.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/smokey-4.jpeg)
"I believe Smokey sees Kona as a trusted babysitter; there's a look of 'Oh, I'm so glad you're here!' in her eyes."
![smokey 9 smokey 9](https://welovecatsandkittens.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/smokey-9.jpg)
Spam, in her signature style, continues to demand attention, endearingly engaging with Kona.
"With the kittens growing more spirited, they eagerly flock to Kona, viewing her as a delightful playmate," Asa shared.
![smokey 10 smokey 10](https://welovecatsandkittens.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/smokey-10.jpg)
“Everyone loves auntie Koko,” Asa wrote on Instagram.
![smokey 2 smokey 2](https://welovecatsandkittens.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/smokey-2.jpeg)
With Kona's support, Smokey manages to get some deserved "me time."
In due course, once the kittens are old enough, they will venture into new homes.
![smokey 12 smokey 12](https://welovecatsandkittens.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/smokey-12.jpg)
And their delightful mother will embark on a journey of her own to find a forever family, where she'll be cherished and pampered endlessly.
Check out the video below:
A big thank you to Asa for sharing Smokey's story with us.
You can see more of this cat family and Asa's other fosters on Instagram
Related post: 22 Adorable Pictures of Mother Cats with Their Kittens
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