Figaro’s mobility has significantly improved after encountering his lookalike, despite his illness.

When Figaro was only six weeks old, he was brought to the Little Wanderers NYC shelter as an orphaned kitten suffering from cerebellar hypoplasia. This neurologic disease affects a cat’s motor skills and coordination, leaving Figaro unsteady on his feet and reliant on help with feeding. To ensure Figaro had the best chance for growth and development, he was placed in foster care with Ashley. Although Figaro required tremendous support and patience due to his condition, he quickly adapted to his new surroundings and began exploring the world around him. Despite his lack of coordination, Figaro lived life to the fullest and never let his condition hold him back. Ashley remarked that Figaro was comfortable in his new home and didn’t seem to notice or care about his instability.

During meal times, the foster mother had to syringe-feed Figaro, although he was slowly starting to enjoy the delicious mash. Although he can now consume solid food on his own, he still requires assistance with liquids through a syringe. After some time passed since Figaro’s arrival, Ahsley decided it was time for him to meet Laser, her resident cat, and the two felines were face to face. Figaro was in awe of Laser, who looked exactly like him but was a magnificent adult. The two started playing together, and Laser was very gentle with his little brother, being careful not to hurt him while also grooming and cuddling him. By spending time with Laser, copying his actions and playing with him, Figaro improved his movements and coordination, although he is still slightly wobbly. He is also very affectionate with his foster mother.

Figaro gains an extensive understanding of the cat’s life from watching his model, and it’s possible that he aspires to resemble his older sibling.