BROOKLYN, NY — A lovable orange tabby cat, now named Buttons, has traded life on the streets for a warm home after a chance encounter with a local rescuer last month.
Gissell, founder of Paws of Hope NYC, was driving home one evening when she spotted the large, striking cat foraging near a creek in East New York. Despite the fading light, his vibrant coat caught her attention.
“I pulled over with a can of food, thinking I’d need to coax him,” Gissell told Love Meow. “But he walked right up to me—more interested in affection than food.”
Instant Bond and Rescue
The moment Buttons noticed Gissell, he flopped onto his back, rolling eagerly to expose his belly—a gesture of trust in feline behavior. Instead of walking, the sociable tabby wriggled toward her, craving pets.
“He was so relaxed, I could just scoop him into my carrier,” Gissell recalled. “It was like he knew he was safe.”
That night, Buttons enjoyed his first indoor sleep, with a full belly and a roof over his head. “He was in the right place at the right time,” Gissell said.
From Stray to Snuggle Expert
Estimated to be five years old, Buttons went unclaimed by any owner and was placed with foster volunteer Soph. His transition from street life to home life was seamless.
“He’s the ultimate cuddle bug—always on my lap or chest,” Soph shared. “But he also loves solo sunbathing.” Described as chatty and curious, Buttons enjoys movie nights, investigates household noises (even the vacuum), and insists on “family-style” meals with his humans.
His quirks don’t end there: “He wakes me up with snuggles when my alarm goes off,” Soph added. “And catnip turns him into a rolling, blissed-out floof.”
Ready for Adoption
Buttons’ rescuers say he’s ideal for a home where he can shower—and receive—constant affection. “His perfect day? Belly rubs, chin scratches, and being near his people,” Gissell said.
The once-lonely creek-side stray now greets everyone with face rubs and purrs, proving that even on the streets, some hearts are just waiting to love.
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