In Brooklyn, New York, two young kittens were discovered shivering outside a building, braving the chill of the street. Neighbors, noticing their plight, reached out to Infinite Hope Animal Rescue for assistance.
The kittens were initially frightened and reluctant to move. However, with the aid of a trap-neuter-return (TNR) rescuer, they were safely rescued. Infinite Hope shared, “After capturing them, we noticed their unique facial features.”
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A veterinarian later assessed them and determined they had a chromosomal irregularity, akin to a feline version of Down Syndrome.
The orange kitten also suffered from a condition called entropion, where the eyelid turns inward, causing discomfort. This little one was notably timid, often finding solace in the presence of his bolder sister, a torbie who affectionately tended to him.
“He was more reserved around people and definitely felt comforted by his sister,” Infinite Hope stated.
Following a necessary eye surgery to ease his pain and prevent infections, the orange tabby was well-cared for by his foster mom, with his ever-loyal sister at his side during the recovery process.
Around this time, Michelle Parson, grieving the loss of her 15-year-old cat, Buttons, stumbled upon the kittens on Petfinder. Though she wasn’t planning to adopt so soon, Michelle found herself captivated by the sibling duo.
After seeing them still awaiting adoption weeks later, her son decided to name the orange tabby “Auggie,” inspired by the character from the movie “Wonder,” while Michelle chose “Calliope” for the torbie.
“I felt compelled to try to adopt them after naming them,” Michelle explained. Researching other cats with similar conditions, she was reassured by their potential for a fulfilling life.
“We fell in love with their rescue story and strong bond,” she told Love Meow, leading her to submit an adoption application. “It was the best decision we’ve ever made,” she added.
The kittens soon joined her household, though initially shy and disoriented. They spent their first days hiding, but as Michelle noted, “Calliope seemed to be the one encouraging Auggie to be cautious while she explored.”
Gradually, the kittens grew more comfortable and became inseparable companions, rarely apart. “If one entered a room, the other was never far behind,” Michelle shared.
Over the following months, the pair truly came into their own, asserting their presence in their new home. Auggie, once a timid kitten, blossomed into a confident and playful cat.
When not dashing about, Auggie enjoys watching the world from the window with Calliope, engaging in “Cat TV.” “They adore their toys and keeping an eye on the neighborhood, chirping at birds and soaking up the sun,” Michelle said.
The family dog, Dexter, embraces them warmly, sharing his space and joyfully tolerating their playful antics.
Auggie delights in “borrowing” sponges, while Calliope often observes with a discerning gaze, always ready to care for Auggie, ensuring his face remains spotless and offering comfort whenever needed.
Although Michelle hadn’t anticipated adopting so soon, these two kittens won her heart and home. “We needed them, and are beyond grateful to be their forever family. They are showered with affection daily,” Michelle concluded.
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