Sad-Faced Cat 'Fishtopher' Adopted From South Jersey Animal Shelter

BLACKWOOD, NJ — The power of a compelling cat photo in the Internet age is strong. A picture of "Fishtopher," a sad-looking tomcat at Homeward Bound Pet Adoption Center in Camden County, captured hearts across the World Wide Web. But Fishtopher isn't looking quite so sad anymore.

On Saturday, a new family drove from Baltimore, to take the big-cheeked cat home to their animal rescue. Those who want to see his happier faces can do so on Instagram at username "mister.fishtopher."

His new owners said that "Fish" is a "very chill and laid back" cat, and is getting more comfortable with them. The gray and black feline enjoys tube treats, also known as "cat Go-Gurts," they said, and enjoys sleeping all day.

His happy, relaxed new life is a far cry from his "sad and depressed" mood at the shelter, as staff at the Blackwood shelter indicated on PetFinder.

The new owners said Fishtopher is (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus) FIV positive, meaning his immune system is vulnerable. He is about five years old.

A Twitter user named Molly Clarke shared his PetFinder biography on Nov. 24. His biography and woeful expression resonated with users on the site, who retweeted it in droves. A long line formed outside the shelter over the weekend, and hundreds of people sent in an inquiry.

"Several other cats were also adopted on the back of Fishtopher’s new-found fame," the shelter said on Instagram.

And if you missed Fishtopher, Homeward Bound says there are a number of felines hoping to go home with you.

"We hope that folks who are captivated by his photo and story will visit their local shelters and find a pet to adopt," the shelter said in a Facebook post. "So many wonderful pets are waiting for homes."

You can make a donation to Homeward Bound Pet Adoption Center online.