‘Lucky To Be Alive’: Calico Sisters Ready For Next Chapter — Huntington Adoptable Pet Of The Week

HUNTINGTON, NY — Elsa and Anna are “two absolutely gorgeous calico sisters” whose story proves just how resilient little hearts can be.

The 6-month-old sisters were born in a shed in Babylon to a feral mother who has since been trapped, spayed, and returned. They were part of a litter of four kittens. One sibling was adopted by a family member, another by a close friend shortly after spay surgery, and Elsa and Anna remained behind with their mother — the only home they had ever known.

For more than a year, their mother had taken up residence in a kind Good Samaritan’s shed. With easy access in and out — and before she was spayed — her small family grew. Fortunately, they grew in safety.

Shelter volunteers say the girls were “incredibly lucky to have been born in that shed and to have stayed there — especially with the harsh weather we’ve had since the beginning of the year.” The Good Samaritan worked patiently to socialize all four kittens, helping them learn they didn’t have to hide under furniture whenever a human entered the room.

“That early kindness made all the difference,” the shelter shared.

Anna, the pastel calico, and Elsa, the darker calico, are shy at first. Having known only one human for most of their young lives, the wider world can feel overwhelming. But now that they are in the shelter and sharing a room with other kittens their age, volunteers say they are already beginning to blossom.

“Each day they grow a little braver,” the shelter noted, interacting more with people, venturing out to explore, and showing “glimpses of the confident calico personalities we know are waiting to shine.”

And when it comes to playtime, the transformation is clear.

Stuffed mice, springs, any type of ball — and especially wand toys — are instant favorites. If someone sits nearby to talk with them or play music, the sisters allow chin and back scratches and may even climb into a lap.

“We’re sure they found creative ways to entertain themselves in the shed,” said Debbi Larkin, President of the shelter. "But proper cat toys are clearly the preferred upgrade.”

They have healthy appetites, adore Churus, and while they are still adjusting to the community food plate at the shelter, staff are confident they will soon be “first in line waiting at the door.”

When playtime winds down, Elsa and Anna can often be found snuggled together in a cozy bed or perched atop a condo, watching cars and people pass by through the window — “safe, warm, and together.”

Both girls have tested negative for FeLV and FIV, are parasite-free, vaccinated, spayed, litter-box trained, and have had their ears, eyes, and hearts checked. They are healthy and ready for adoption.

Calicos are often described as bold, intelligent, independent, and sometimes “a little sassy and stubborn.”

But they are also known for forming deep, loyal bonds with their people.

“We cannot wait to see all those traits emerge as Anna and Elsa continue to gain confidence,” the shelter said.

Those interested in adopting the sisters — who must go home together — can call the Grateful Paw Cat Shelter at 631-757-4517, email cats@laphuntington.org, or visit in person at 3 Verleye Ave. in East Northport. The shelter is open Tuesday through Sunday from 12 to 4 p.m., with additional Thursday evening hours from 7 to 9 p.m. by appointment.

“They are lucky to be alive. Lucky to have been protected. Lucky to have found their way to us,” the shelter said. “Now they just need one more bit of luck — a forever home… together.”

And with St. Patrick’s Day approaching, volunteers say there may be no better way to give these sisters “the luck of the Irish.”

“Their forever home isn’t in a shed,” the shelter said. “It’s with you.”