With names as wonderful as Dakota and Ansonia, it’s easy to guess what neighborhood these beautiful sisters call home.

Hailing from Bronx Tails Cat Rescue, Dakota and Ansonia are now waited on hand and paw in their apartment at 72nd and Amsterdam, where since March 2020 their pet-parent ‘staff’ have tended to their every need and desire. Deservedly so! This sweet 2½-year-old pair give as much love as they get and are a delight, offering affection, entertainment and joy.

Dakota, the elder sister, enjoys having her sleek gray coat brushed. Tabby Ansonia, on the other hand, does not, and being the runt of the litter is more motivated by the shake of a treat box. Look out if you have a deli-meat sandwich! Ansonia and Dakota are quite partial to a corner of sliced turkey so will keep an eye open for any offerings or dropped tidbits.

Both are fond of snuggling. Ansonia loves to nestle in bed and play the role of an extra furry pillow. Dakota is more of a couch-kitty who will make herself comfortable on a warm chest in front of the TV. Play-time involves feathers and pom-poms, with red varieties being a favorite: who says cats can’t see color! Toys are batted into every nook and cranny of the apartment – between things, behind things, under things – some accidentally lost, some hidden for fun for finding later.

As with many cats, Ansonia and Dakota like climbing. You’ll find them on top of cabinets, the fridge and even, in Dakota’s case, one day balancing on the edge of a closet door! The girls are lucky enough to have a variety of appliances and cat trees to scale, so enjoy spending time peering down on their kingdom. Dakota, being quite nimble, can get up and back unassisted, whilst Ansonia, if stuck, is more timid and will wait patiently to be helped. Both are rarely alone for long though. Their pet mom works from home so they have plenty of company during the day and leap at the sound of the elevator ding when their pet dad returns. A nearby brother- and sister-in-law care for them as needed during vacations; the two clearly have no shortage of fans!

Despite their mischievousness, the girls are well-behaved. They eat their meals on time, use their litter box and don’t take out their frustrations on the furniture. You’ll find them playing together, cuddling in their cat tent, or digging around for red pom-poms under the oven.

How did the pair get their iconic names? On their first night of adoption their pet mom and dad were lying in bed discussing what might suit. All of a sudden, the Ansonia came into view in the moonlight through the window and inspiration struck. Dakota quickly followed as the perfect complement, and the kitties had their names. Dakota – lively, quirky and unique. Ansonia – stately, regal and elegant. Each quite different, yet bonded and close, and so very special in their own way.

Two little felines enjoying life on the UWS . . .

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What beautiful girls! And great names.

Great story. Thank you Victoria

This is a great story, how the cats got there names, beautiful pictures of two rescued, well adjusted and happy adopted felines and their distinct cat personalities. I can relate to this well written cat tale ( pun intended) on so many levels, as a proud Owner of an Upper Westside cat enjoying all the things my cat enjoys including views of iconic buildings!

Such gorgeous sisters with perfect UWS names. Their humans are lucky to serve them!

Unfortunately allergic to cats, but not to their pix. Kudos to Julia Miller. That first picture is a true work of art.

So proud of our grandkitties!

I have the absolute joy of knowing these two girls personally! They are beautiful, full of fun, and a delight to be with!!

How wonderful to meet Dakota and Ansonia! I love hearing about their habits, likes and personality, and am glad that you’ve been so generous with photos. This column is a great addition to WSR. Thanks, Victoria

Heartwarming story. UWS is certainly chock full of cute cats.

What sweet kitties. I love all the different textures in greys in the top photo.

We named our twins Dorado and San Remo.

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© 2022 West Side Rag | All rights reserved.