At the Humane Society of York County (HSYC) in South Carolina, a small moment between two kittens recently melted hearts and reminded staff just how deeply animals can connect. Colleen, a 13-week-old kitten without a tail, was spotted gently holding paws with her feline friend Pedro Pascal through the bars of their kennels. The gesture, captured by a rescue attendant named Vicki, looked like the two were forming a tiny heart with their paws — a quiet, tender scene that stood out even in a place filled with playful pets and affectionate animals.
Colleen’s story begins with a bit of mystery. When she arrived at the shelter, staff noticed her missing tail. While it didn’t appear she was born that way, there was no clear information about how she lost it. What was immediately clear, however, was her personality. Described as outgoing, playful, and affectionate, Colleen quickly established herself as one of the most social kittens at the shelter. She eagerly snuggled with her fellow feline residents and embraced every opportunity to play.
“She’s definitely a playful little gal,” said Vicki, who works closely with the cats at HSYC. Her observations of Colleen’s behavior show a kitten who thrives in the company of others. That’s what made the moment between Colleen and Pedro Pascal so touching. Vicki entered the cat room and found the two kittens lying quietly, paws touching through the kennel bars. They weren’t wrestling or playing, just enjoying each other’s presence in peaceful companionship.
“It was just so cute, and it looked like they were making a little heart with their hands,” Vicki shared. The image of two kittens forming a heart shape with their paws is memorable, not only for its sweetness but also for what it says about the emotional depth animals can express — even in a shelter environment.
Though Colleen and Pedro weren’t littermates, they clearly shared a special bond. Unfortunately, Pedro was adopted shortly after their quiet moment together, leaving Colleen behind. While it’s always a joy when a shelter animal finds a home, the separation of bonded animals can be bittersweet. Still, Colleen hasn’t let that slow her down. She continues to charm staff and volunteers with her lively spirit and affection for other kittens.
Given her social nature, HSYC recommends that anyone considering adopting Colleen also think about bringing home a second kitten. “We always tell people … if you’re going to get kittens, you should get two,” Vicki explained. “It’s not because we’re trying to push two kittens off on people. It’s because they really just do so much better together.” This advice reflects a common understanding among animal welfare professionals: kittens are happier and more well-adjusted when they have a companion to grow up with.
Despite her friendly personality and readiness for adoption, Colleen continues to be overlooked as younger kittens arrive at the shelter. It’s a common challenge in animal rescue — the influx of new arrivals can sometimes overshadow those who have been waiting a little longer. Yet, those who know Colleen are confident that the right person will come along. She is spayed, fully vaccinated, and ready to become a beloved member of a forever family.
“She’s kind of the best of both worlds for a kitten,” Vicki said. “She is playful and spry, and she’s silly, but she is a huge cuddle bug.” That combination of energy and affection makes Colleen a wonderful companion, especially for someone looking to adopt two kittens who can grow and thrive together.
For anyone searching for a friendly kitten in South Carolina or beyond, Colleen’s story is a gentle reminder of the joy that comes from adopting a shelter pet — especially one who has already shown such warmth and connection. I found the image of two kittens forming a heart through their kennel bars both striking and deeply moving. It’s a quiet testament to the bonds animals form, even in temporary homes, and a call to action for those who can offer them something permanent.
If you’re interested in adopting Colleen or learning more about the adoption process, you can visit HSYC’s adoption page. Donations to support their ongoing rescue efforts are also welcome and appreciated.
