New York Girl Follows Her Heart And Rescues A Cross-Eyed Cat No One Wanted
This is the story of Luciano, a charming cross-eyed ginger cat whose path from the streets to a loving home feels truly special.
For a long while, Luciano wandered the streets of Far Rockaway, Queens, but he wasn’t just another stray.
Each day, he could be found near the same building, patiently waiting for someone dear to him – a young girl who lived there with her mother.
The little girl quickly became Luciano’s safe haven. Each time she came outside, his eyes would light up.
She and her mom brought him food, gave him head scratches, and poured affection into his lonely heart.
For Luciano, their kindness was everything. And for the little girl, this quirky cross-eyed cat became more than just a visitor – he became her friend.
Still, the girl and her mom knew Luciano needed more than street-side love. They couldn’t take him in themselves, so they turned to the internet, posting his story in hopes of finding him a forever family.
Their plea didn’t go unnoticed. The post soon caught the eye of Gissell, the founder of Paws of Hope NYC. She immediately reached out and made arrangements to bring Luciano to safety.
Given how gentle and affectionate Luciano was, Gissell suspected he had once belonged to a family who had abandoned him. She shared her concerns online:
“The cat crisis has reached critical levels, with cat abandonment rates soaring to an all-time high. This heartbreaking trend leaves countless innocent animals like Luciano vulnerable, relying solely on the decisions of their owners.”
She also reflected on the bond Luciano had with the little girl, saying:
“Despite facing the harsh realities of life on the streets, his bond with the little girl became his saving grace. Her love, empathy, and compassion showed him that there is goodness in the world and that he is deserving of care and affection.”
Though it was heartbreaking for the girl to say goodbye, she knew Luciano’s journey was leading him to the life he deserved.
At the shelter, Luciano charmed everyone. He was playful, affectionate, and incredibly friendly – the kind of cat who instantly wins hearts.
Soon, he was matched with a foster mom, @fostercatmama213, who welcomed him into her home.
For the first time in ages, Luciano had everything he could dream of: soft blankets, safe spaces to explore, toys (including a favorite stuffed alpaca), and cozy windowsills to gaze from.
He adjusted quickly, savoring the comfort of an indoor life. Aside from a few litter box challenges, Luciano was healthy and full of life. With patience and care, even those issues began to improve. As Gissell described him:
“Despite this challenge, he remains the epitome of health, happiness, and affection, embodying the perfect lap kitty.”
It didn’t take long before Luciano’s foster stay came to an end – this time, not because of hardship, but because someone fell in love with him.
A cat lover reached out, eager to give him the forever home he had been waiting for. And just like that, Luciano’s story came full circle.
Thanks to a little girl’s compassion and the dedication of rescuers, this cross-eyed ginger boy now has what he always dreamed of: a family and a home to call his own.
