Back in spring 2017, the team at Jeptha Creed Distillery in Kentucky got the surprise of a lifetime. While spreading straw around the property, co-owner and vice president of operations Autumn Nethery noticed something unusual — four tiny orange kittens tumbling out from inside a hay bale.

“They were so small, barely with their eyes open, and clearly starving,” Nethery told The Dodo.

No Mother in Sight — But a New Home Found

The staff searched high and low for the kittens’ mother, but she was nowhere to be found. It was clear these sisters had been on their own for a while — and wouldn’t survive without help.

The decision was instant: the distillery had been considering adopting a cat, so why not four? They named the kittens after key distillery ingredients — Malt, Wheat, Barley, and Rye. Staff members took shifts bottle-feeding them, making sure they got the love and care they needed.

From Orphaned Kittens to Beloved Mascots

Years later, the sisters have grown into healthy, happy cats who rule their whiskey-scented kingdom. They spend their days lounging in their catio, greeting guests during tours, and soaking up attention. At night, they become the distillery’s furry security team, patrolling the grounds.

“When the tours come through, they’ll wake up, ready to be petted,” Nethery said. “They love the spotlight.”

A Rare Orange Girl Gang

What makes them even more special? Only 20% of orange cats are female — yet all four are stunning ginger girls. Visitors can’t help but comment, with one TikTok fan writing, “Love seeing a female-run business.”

Eight Years of Joy

Today, Malt, Wheat, Barley, and Rye aren’t just mascots — they’re family. They’ve brought endless smiles to staff, guests, and anyone lucky enough to meet them. The distillery feels grateful every day that these tiny orange wanderers decided to make Jeptha Creed their forever home.