05/25/2026
Today's is all about the Richmond AFC Litter.
As you can see, their eyes are looking so much better!
If you’re a fan of the TV show Ted Lasso, then you’ll appreciate the spirit behind our AFC Richmond litter: Higgins, Roy, Keeley, and, of course, Ted Lasso himself. This tiny team of four arrived in our care at approximately six weeks old, each carrying more than their fair share of medical challenges. Most of them came to us with swollen or matted eyes, severe congestion, and absolutely no interest in humans… for about five minutes. It turned out warm compresses, gentle care, and finally being able to see were pretty convincing.
After veterinary evaluation, the kittens were diagnosed with upper respiratory infections and began treatment with antibiotics along with frequent ear and eye medications. Ted, the smallest of the group, was hit especially hard. Congested, unable to see clearly, and feeling miserable, he had no appetite and required daily syringe feedings until he was strong enough to eat on his own. Thankfully, once he started feeling better, he became very vocal about mealtimes.
Their treatment schedule required medications and cleanings four times a day, including a late-night 10 p.m. round. Thanks to our dedicated staff and one incredible medical foster, every dose and cleaning was carefully managed. Right now, the AFC Richmond crew is staying in our quarantine room, where they’ve become experts in enjoying the simple things: tunnels, cardboard boxes, and curling up together in a cuddle puddle on their heating pad.
Each kitten’s recovery has looked a little different. Roy, staying true to his namesake, acted as though nothing was wrong and recovered almost immediately with only mild symptoms. Higgins mostly dealt with eye discharge but never lost his healthy appetite. Keeley developed concerning issues with her left eye, while Ted struggled with both eyes—particularly his right eye, where the swelling and infection were severe.
Because of those concerns, Ted and Keeley were referred to Eye Care for Animals–Austin for specialized care. There, we learned both kittens had suffered ruptured eye ulcers. Ted’s eye had already begun healing, while Keeley’s had only recently ruptured and was just beginning the healing process. Thankfully, specialists determined that neither kitten would require eye removal surgery. Both retained vision, and both are expected to heal and keep their eyes!
Cases like these remind us why dedicated staff, medical fosters, and compassionate supporters are so essential to rescue work. We are honored to care for kittens through some of their hardest days and grateful for the people willing to take on the extra treatments, sleepless nights, and constant care that critical cases require.
And every day, Ted Lasso reminds us exactly why it matters. As you prepare his meals, he climbs right up onto your boot to perch on the top and lean into your shin and supervise the process—often yelling his opinions the entire time. Somehow, it feels a little bit like gratitude.
Read the rest of last week's Mewsings at https://us14.campaign-archive.com/?u=556bf38fb24b700a4c3c89c1f&id=77ee566a7d for Payton's plea, Audrey & Rei's adoption update, and the scoop on Anne's semi-retirement party at Beerburg.
