Animal sanctuaries and wildlife rehabilitation centers are the unsung heroes of the animal world, but they aren’t the only way that animals can get help when needed. Anyone can save a life when in the right place and time, which one Alabama mom, @heathereddy, learned firsthand after her son found a group of baby possums in their garden this summer.
The orphaned baby possums had kept themselves comfortable after their mother sadly passed away, but Heather and her family stepped in to ensure their survival. However, while they were contacting wildlife rehabilitators and making a plan for the little ones, the possums built an unexpected bond with the family’s gray kitten. Luckily, the cat was as unbothered as can be!
Aww! These babies are climbing all over the kitten like they would do with Mom, and the baby cat has no qualms about letting them explore. Either they’re already pals, or this kitten is used to being at the bottom of the cuddle puddle.
Related: Baby Opossum Found Inside Living Room Sofa Clings to Cat for Comfort
As sweet as this scene is, viewers couldn’t miss a chance to poke fun at the lack of age gap between the baby possums and the babysitter. Just like a commenter named Brian said, it’s “kids raising kids. What can go wrong?”
Honestly, not much! The gray tabby kitten is about the same age as the orphaned possums, and neither party could do much damage. With Heather watching closely, the worst-case scenario is a few scratches and a few hurt feelings!
“It’s like a 5th grader being tasked to watch a class of kindergarteners,” another viewer remarked. That’s the perfect analogy! No one truly knows what they’re doing, but the kitten and baby possums still vibing together like BFFs.
What To Do With Orphaned Baby Possums
Heather and her family did the right thing by finding a local wildlife rehabilitator who could raise these orphaned babies, but not every animal rescue situation is as straightforward as this one. What should you do if you find baby possums by themselves?
Baby possums (AKA oppossums) need to be with their mothers at all times until they’re around 7 inches long, not including the tail. When they’re big enough to be independent, it’s ok if they’re alone! For possums that are clearly babies or measure smaller than an adult’s hand, professional help may be needed.
Please be careful when handling sick, injured, or baby possums, and be sure to look for siblings, or even Mom, before leaving the area. A little diligence can save a life!
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This story was originally reported by PetHelpful on Aug 24, 2025, where it first appeared in the Pet News section. Add PetHelpful as a Preferred Source by clicking here.