Dominique Amerosa, the president of Rags to Riches Animal Rescue in Tampa, Florida, thought it was just another day when she received a call about a stray Persian cat. It seemed like a routine rescue of a neutered male, confirmed even by a veterinarian during a vaccination appointment. However, life took a surprising turn when Gertrude, as the cat was initially named, gave birth to a tiny kitten – Wisp.
Now almost 10-weeks-old, Wisp The Cat has become an internet sensation, capturing hearts worldwide with her distinctive appearance and vocal personality. This Persian kitten has amassed nearly 800,000 followers and over 50 million likes on TikTok, making her a viral star.
Wisp’s unique look has sparked a range of playful comparisons. Some online users affectionately describe her as “scrungly,” while others humorously liken her to a “used napkin.” Amerosa herself adds, “She looks like she just woke up or like she’s a mad scientist,” noting that this slightly disheveled charm is often seen in Persian kittens of her age.
Part of Wisp’s adorably messy appearance is attributed to her special diet. Due to a medical condition, she can only consume a watered-down slurry of food. This often results in her enthusiastically diving face-first into her meals, staining the white fur around her mouth a charming orange hue.
Life for Wisp the cat is now filled with comfort and care at Rags to Riches Animal Rescue. She enjoys the simple pleasures of bottled water and relaxing under Amerosa’s watchful eye. The rescue environment provides her with companionship from six foster dogs and several other fostered kittens. In total, Rags to Riches Animal Rescue oversees the well-being of over 60 cats and nearly 30 dogs.
While Gertrude, Wisp’s mother, maintains a somewhat independent relationship with her kitten, another rescue cat named Lilac has formed a surprising bond with Wisp. Lilac, who was rescued from an interstate and is typically not fond of other cats, has taken Wisp under her wing. “I catch her going into Wisp’s little enclosure and grooming her,” Amerosa shares, highlighting the unexpected friendships that blossom in the rescue.
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The journey to TikTok fame for Wisp the cat began somewhat spontaneously. Amerosa explained that she was encouraged by others at the rescue to create a TikTok account to showcase their work. “I made it, and then I posted Wisp screaming for food, and I went to sleep,” she recounts. “I woke up and I had, like, over 200,000 followers. All these comments, all these new followers on Instagram.” Wisp’s initial video quickly went viral, launching her into internet stardom.
Amerosa affectionately describes Wisp as “hilarious” and notes her talkative nature. “All of our animals are very cute, but she is hilarious,” she says. “I’m happy to share how she is. How spunky and sassy.” Wisp’s vibrant personality shines through in her videos, contributing to her widespread appeal.
Beneath her playful exterior, Wisp faces a significant health challenge. She has an intestinal stricture, a condition that narrows her colon, making it difficult for her to eliminate waste properly. Despite this medical hurdle, Wisp’s spirited personality helps her navigate her challenges with resilience.
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Rags to Riches Animal Rescue is dedicated to providing Wisp the cat with the best possible care. She regularly visits veterinarians to manage her condition. Amerosa explains that Wisp has undergone ballooning, a procedure to stretch her colon, and will likely need further treatments throughout her life. However, more invasive interventions like surgery are expected to be unnecessary.
Amerosa emphasizes the importance of understanding and supporting animals with disabilities. “A lot of people don’t understand disabled animals,” she states. “If you’re in it for the long haul and you feel passionate about saving an animal, there’s plenty of resources to get the care you need.” Rags to Riches Animal Rescue serves as a testament to this commitment, providing a loving and supportive environment for animals like Wisp, regardless of their medical needs.
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Despite facing criticism from some social media users who suggested euthanasia, Rags to Riches Animal Rescue remains steadfast in their dedication to Wisp’s well-being. “We’ll fight when they want to fight and when they’re done, we’ll throw the towel in with them,” Amerosa affirms. “We’ll never put them through anything they could not go through.” Wisp the cat, in her journey from stray to TikTok star, embodies this fighting spirit and the unwavering compassion of animal rescue organizations. Her story not only brings joy to millions online but also shines a light on the importance of animal rescue and the incredible resilience of animals in need.
