Not every animal shows their feelings so openly — but Fishtopher, a 5-year-old rescue cat, wears his heart on his face. When he was found as a stray in New Jersey and brought to Homeward Bound Pet Adoption Center, his droopy expression told the world exactly how he felt: lonely and heartbroken.
Though he adored the staff caring for him, what Fishtopher longed for most was a family of his own.
At the shelter, he often refused to eat unless someone sat with him, craving human companionship more than anything. The staff quickly fell in love with him, but they knew he wouldn’t truly thrive until he had a forever home.
They created a Petfinder profile that described him as “friendly, affectionate, gentle, quiet, [and a] couch potato.”
The profile highlighted his favorite thing of all — cuddling in someone’s arms, where he felt safe.
Their heartfelt description ended with a plea: “Please come rescue our big, lovable boy!”
It wasn’t long before Fishtopher’s sad little face captured hearts far beyond the shelter walls. Twitter user Molly Clarke shared his profile and photo, and the post went viral almost overnight.
You can see that tweet here:
“We literally had hundreds of inquiries from people who wanted to adopt,” the shelter later shared. “People were waiting out front this morning in line!”
Among those moved by Fishtopher’s story were Laura Folts and Tanner Callahan. The couple drove two hours to meet him, convinced he was meant to be theirs — and soon, he was.
The shelter staff admitted they’d miss his company, but they couldn’t have been happier knowing he was heading to the perfect home. “Fishtopher has left the building!” they wrote in celebration.
The shy cat quickly began warming up to his new parents. On the car ride home, he snuggled close, hiding his face in the crook of their arms as they showered him with affection.
Within days, the transformation was undeniable. His once-droopy eyes grew bright with curiosity, his ears perked at the sound of treats and kisses, and for the first time, he could finally relax in the comfort of peace and love.
Now, Fishtopher spends his days lounging on the couch, devouring treat tubes, and soaking up endless cuddles. His gloomy shelter days are long behind him, replaced with joy, comfort, and belonging.
“He’s the goodest, bestest boy,” Folts wrote.
The cat who once looked too sad to hope has become unrecognizable — a happy, cherished family member living his best life.
To keep up with Fishtopher, you can follow him on Instagram or Twitter.
To help cats like Fishtopher get the care they need, you can support Homeward Bound Pet Adoption Center by buying their Friends of Fishtopher merch or by making a donation.
