They saved a cat from the streets and watched him shine. His little smile warmed hearts along the way. HerbertKate @katesfostersA dedicated cat colony caretaker reached out to the rescue community about a tabby who wasn't doing well.Kate, a foster volunteer with Tails High, saw the plea and didn't hesitate to help. The cat, named Herbert, or Herbie, instantly reminded her of another foster cat, Rupert. Both shared the same sweet little smile and soulful eyes.Serendipitously, Herbie was rescued on the two-year anniversary of Rupert's gotcha day. "It feels like a sign," Kate shared. Kate @katesfostersWhen Herbie arrived in foster care, he was understandably timid and overwhelmed by all the changes. He spent much of his time hiding, quietly observing as he tried to make sense of his new surroundings. Despite his fear, he'd look up at his foster mom with soft, gentle eyes.The caretaker had been especially worried about his mouth. "It turns out he only has one tooth left." Kate @katesfostersWith a quiet environment and nourishing meals, Herbie began to relax. He poked his head out of his cubby bed, taking in all the new sights and smells. As curiosity replaced fear, he found the courage to explore and even seek out affection.After a few days, Herbie finally came out of his shell. Kate @katesfostersHe stepped out of his hiding spot and walked straight up to Kate, gently nudging her for pets. For the first time in a long while, Herbie truly felt safe. His purr motor roared to life as he leaned into his foster mom, soaking up every bit of love.Once he realized he no longer had to hide, he couldn't get enough snuggles. Kate @katesfostersThe first time Herbie cuddled in bed, he closed his eyes in pure contentment, wrapped in his foster mom's embrace. "He and adoptable Nona (another foster cat) sniffed each other a bit, then he hopped up on the bed and slept next to me all night."He rubbed against his foster mom, his purrs so loud that the whole room seemed to hum. Kate @katesfosters"Over the last several weeks, Herbie has seen our vet team, and we've learned more about him. How we wish these kitties could talk and tell us their stories," Tails High shared. "It's clear that Herbie once enjoyed life indoors and was loved, based on how quickly he has blossomed in his foster home."Estimated to be seven to eight years old, Herbie is now on a much healthier path. While he continues receiving care to get back to tip-top shape, he's savoring every moment of his new life. Kate @katesfostersHerbie has transformed into a total love bug who always wants to be close to his human. He's the first thing Kate sees each morning, snuggled right on top of her. He keeps her company while she reads, offering affectionate head boops and serving as the most adorable page holder."He is such a sweetheart, and we're so glad he's indoors with Kate as we look at the snow outside." Kate @katesfosters"With more veterinary care, a dental for his one remaining tooth, and time, we're hopeful he'll be ready to find the forever home he deserves. We know that blep of his will have adopters lining up around the block."Herbie decided to share a snuggle session with his roommate, Strega Nona, who had survived five winters outside before being rescued. Herbert and Strega NonaKate @katesfosters"Herbert is fortunate to have a foster mom who saw him and knew she needed to give him everything she possibly could. We couldn't be luckier to have Kate and all the fosters who open their homes and hearts to these precious kitties." Kate @katesfostersShare this story with your friends. More on Herbert and Tails High on Instagram @tailshigh and Facebook. Thanks to Kate @katesfosters.Related story: Street Cat Approaches People, Hoping for a Warm Place This Winter and the Good Life He's Always Wanted