A tiny kitten found wedged between two walls on an industrial estate in Cowbridge has defied the odds, growing into a playful little cat who loves nothing more than rough-and-tumble play.
The kitten, now named Merlin, was discovered by a member of the public at Llandow Trading Estate, just off Llantwit Major Road, and was immediately taken to Cats Protection’s National Wales Cat Centre in Brynceithin. Staff were amazed that such a young kitten had survived long enough to reach their care.
Merlin was estimated to be around two weeks old — an age at which kittens rely entirely on their mother for round-the-clock feeding, warmth, and hygiene. At this stage, their eyes have only just opened, they cannot feed themselves or control their bladders, and their sense of the world is largely guided by scent. In short, kittens this young are extremely vulnerable.
Thankfully, although Merlin’s mother was nowhere to be found, he was placed in the care of experienced staff who could provide the next best thing: constant attention, bottle feeding, and gentle socialization. Every day involved meticulous care — keeping Merlin warm, monitoring his digestion, and gently handling him to ensure he developed trust and confidence around humans.
Senior Rehoming and Welfare Assistant Amanda Darroch took responsibility for Merlin as soon as he was cleared by the vet. Weighing just 190 grams, the tiny tabby also suffered from an upset stomach, likely caused by bacterial exposure during his time alone outside, and required medication.
Amanda recalls:
“As Merlin was so small and had been without milk for some hours, it was touch and go at first. I began bottle feeding him every two hours. He was weak, but with every feed, he grew stronger, brighter, and more determined. Watching Merlin gain weight and confidence day by day was one of the most rewarding experiences. It has been an absolute pleasure to witness him grow into such a playful and loving cat. He started to show little bursts of curiosity — batting at strings, pouncing on toys, and even trying to climb small objects in his pen.”
Centre manager Sue Ben-Saud added:
“Not everyone can care for such young kittens as Amanda did. It’s a 24/7 commitment, but she didn’t hesitate to take him home. Her compassion, dedication, and tireless care gave Merlin the lifeline he needed to survive and thrive. Thanks to Amanda, Merlin is now healthy, strong, and full of life. He’s a mighty little cat who sometimes doesn’t know his own strength! He plays with gusto, chasing toys, ambushing unsuspecting feet, and wrestling with soft blankets. He’s full of energy and personality — a little whirlwind of curiosity and fun.”
Now four months old, Merlin has recovered fully from his early digestive problems and is finally ready for a forever home. His journey from a frail, abandoned kitten to a lively, confident young cat is a testament to resilience — and to the extraordinary dedication of those who devote their lives to saving animals in need.
Every day, Merlin reminds the staff of the difference that patient, loving care can make. His playful antics, purring companionship, and fearless energy are living proof that even the tiniest, most vulnerable creatures can flourish when given a chance.