Courtney S. and her partner, Max, decided to adopt a second cat to provide companionship for their 9-year-old cat, Elliott. In March, they discovered an 8-month-old kitten named Router on the ASPCA website. "The second I saw his face, I just knew he belonged with us," Courtney said.

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Router's journey to find a home was challenging. In August 2025, at just 4 weeks old, he was transferred from the Animal Care Centers of NYC to the ASPCA Kitten Nursery, where vulnerable kittens receive specialized care. After arriving, Router was diagnosed with ringworm, a fungal infection requiring treatment and isolation, which delayed his adoption.

In November, when Router was finally ready to be adopted, he was found to have portosystemic shunts (PSS), a condition that causes blood to bypass the liver. This condition was likely congenital and needed surgical correction. Router underwent surgery at the ASPCA Animal Hospital in January 2026, where a bladder stone caused by the PSS was also removed. Following his surgery, he was treated for fever and anemia, but his health improved thanks to the ASPCA's medical team.

When Courtney met Router, she inquired about his special care requirements, and the ASPCA staff provided comprehensive support. "They walked us through his medical history and daily care needs," Courtney noted. Shortly thereafter, Router joined Courtney and Max in their home, where he quickly adapted and formed a playful bond with his new family.

As Router and Elliott were adjusting to each other, Courtney implemented a routine that included supervised playtime and separation at night to help them get acquainted. Courtney observed steady improvement in their relationship. “Router is starting to learn boundaries, and Elliott is slowly coming around to the fact that Router just wants to have fun!”

Now 10 months old, Router enjoys playtime, including fetch, and likes to cuddle with his family after a lively play session. "He has definitely made himself at home, and we wouldn’t have it any other way," Courtney said. Both she and Max find joy in watching him grow and play.

Furthermore, ASPCA has relocated the Kitten Nursery to streamline medical care, benefiting vulnerable animals in New York City. June is Adopt a Shelter Cat Month, highlighting the need for homes for cats like Router. The organization aims to find homes for 325 cats this summer and encourages the public to consider adoption, fostering, or other support opportunities.