You poor thing. And poor Snow. My cat Pigeon was in labor when someone dropped her off in my yard. She had 3 kittens, two of which were stillborn, one survived and she kept trying to smother it, so I removed it and fed it formula that my vet prescribed. I used a little tiny bottle from a toy store that was meant as an accessory for a doll. But it was too premature and died. My point is that sometimes a mother cat knows something we don't and that could be why she's growling. So if she isn't going to take to her kittens, you'll need someone to take over for you when you need some sleep because they'll need to be fed every few hours. Check out the websites that were sent to you because it's very easy to make that heating pad too warm for them. Be sure that it's on the lowest temp. and that there is a blanket or heavy towel on top of it.

As for the expense, it sounds as though your Dad is going to help you out there, being a cat lover himself. If not, talk to your vet and explain the situation and see if you can work out payments.

I wish you all the best and mom and her kittens, too. Please keep us posted.

Blessings,
Mary