Hope is a word that everybody knows but can’t comprehend deeply. It is the exchange of giving and receiving an unseen thing, in a good way. Especially, when life strikes us down, we can barely stand firm on hope. If you are in the same situation, this powerful story will be for you.

A malnourished kitten who carries a lot of diseases is now a feline sensation with a unique lopsided grin. He is not only famous because of the peculiar look but also the strong will inside his little body that has touched so many hearts. Thanks to the kindness of Friends for Life Rescue Network (FFLRN), the crooked face kitty is now healthy and on the way to healing every hopeless soul!

Pinocchio the cat was found and rescued by Jacqueline Santiago, a founder of Friends for Life Rescue Network. She saw a picture of this little guy with an unusual look: the crossbite was misaligned, a deformed face, and a body was tinier than a pepper mill. The organization took him in, though, they were not sure what they would do with him.

“He came malnourished, dehydrated, and infested with fleas.” – Santiago shared.

Can you imagine how many conditions threatened this little ball of purr? Here is the list:

“Gastrointestinal issues, enlarged heart, heart murmur, collapsed lung lobe, tented skull, deviated septum, chronic upper respiratory infections, eye issues, dental issues, possible neurological issues, a massive umbilical hernia that will require surgical repair, a crossbite causing his canines to jab into his lower jaw (will require removal), deformed nose, and potentially hydrocephalus.”

During the dramatic period, Pinocchio was highly lovable and sociable. He was not aware of how different he was compared to other cats. He loved to be around the staff and his pet friends. Santiago was so proud of the kitty.

“He’s extremely confident and greets everyone almost immediately.” – She said.

“He runs up to anyone who enters the room and climbs up to their shoulder to perch. He rubs on you, loves to play, and bounces around. He’s a really happy guy who loves everyone — other people, other cats, and dogs.” – She added.

While he was in the foster home for medical surgeries, Santiago said she would not accept any application for Pinocchio’s adoption until his adulthood. The staff was uncertain about his further changes.

“We know what his needs are now, but as he grows and changes, those could change as well.” – Santiago said.