This is the story of Paisley, a fragile gray kitten with a permanent head tilt who grew into a fearless, happy cat. What started as a desperate rescue turned into a journey of healing, love, and boundless playfulness.
Paisley — Photo by Nikki at MyFosterKittens
Paisley arrived at a municipal shelter in heartbreaking condition — malnourished, frail, and struggling with a severe head tilt that left her spinning in circles. Rescuer Nikki Martinez stepped in, supported by Hearts Alive Village, to save the kitten and bring her into foster care. The moment Paisley heard Nikki’s voice, she responded eagerly, craving both comfort and food.
Paisley’s condition at rescue — Photo by Nikki at MyFosterKittens
Suffering from an upper respiratory infection and extreme thinness, Paisley had a long recovery ahead. Yet she showed a fighting spirit and a huge appetite, quickly earning the nickname “vacuum stomach” for how she devoured meals without leaving a crumb behind. Her determination to eat and her sweet presence gave Nikki hope that she would survive.
Happy despite challenges — Photo by Nikki at MyFosterKittens
Within days, her energy returned. Paisley played nonstop, chirped excitedly, and began exploring her foster home with endless enthusiasm. Her head tilt, likely from an earlier infection, didn’t slow her down. Vets reassured Nikki that Paisley’s brain had adapted, allowing her to live life as any normal cat would.
She was constantly surrounded by toys, keeping herself entertained for hours. Her bouncy hops and joyful chirps even amused the resident cats. Nikki often laughed watching her leap baby gates with ease, describing her as “a ball of energy wrapped in pure joy.”
Leaping with endless energy — Photo by Nikki at MyFosterKittens
Over two months, Paisley transformed from a 1.8-pound weakling to a vibrant four-pound kitten. Her head tilt remained, but it only highlighted her unique charm. Nikki proudly shared that Paisley’s condition never held her back, proving her strength daily.
When she was ready, a wonderful family traveled to adopt her. They created a play space full of toys, sunshine, and cozy resting spots. Paisley settled in immediately, napping through her journey but springing into play mode the moment she reached her new home.
Playful in her forever home — Photo Credit: @tiltedpaisley
Relaxing by the window — Photo Credit: @tiltedpaisley
Now, Paisley thrives with her new family. She enjoys warm naps by the window, sunbathing, watching “cat TV,” and playing until she drops. Once a fragile kitten with little chance of survival, she now radiates confidence and joy, proving that with love and care, even the smallest fighter can conquer the biggest challenges.
Photo Credit: @tiltedpaisley
See more of Paisley’s happy life at @tiltedpaisley and follow Nikki’s journey fostering countless kittens at @myfosterkittens.
