Local & Community
Palm Springs' "Puff Kitty" Is Ready for a Forever Home
The Palm Springs Animal Shelter announced Wednesday that applications are open to adopt Zoe, the kitten who captured the internet's attention in early March after arriving at the shelter visibly inflated.
Shelter Medical Director Dr. Phil Caldwell described Zoe's case as extremely rare. Air had built up under her skin, likely from a damaged windpipe, causing it to leak into her external tissues. Caldwell was able to extract the air quickly, and Zoe began recovering shortly after.
Now about four months old, Zoe is fully treated, spayed, and ready for a new home. The shelter describes her as confident and curious, with a loud purr and a habit of choosing your neck as her preferred resting spot. She has been living in a foster home for most of her life and will need a companion, as she does best with another cat or gentle dog around.
Because of her medical history and the care she required, Zoe is part of the shelter's Adoption Heroes program, which carries a $500 adoption fee. The shelter says that cost goes directly toward enrichment for other animals in their care, covering things like toys, training, and playgroups that help keep animals healthy while they wait for homes of their own.
Applications are open now through 5 p.m. Sunday, April 26. To apply, visit: https://new.shelterluv.com/matchme/adopt/PSAS/Cat
By: NBC Palm Springs
April 23, 2026
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