Read The Story Of Rescuer’s Tireless Efforts To Aid 'Taco Bell Cats'

Paul Santell, known as "the Cat Guy," is celebrated as a local hero in Queens.

Damjan

• Published in Interesting
• March 24, 2024

In the bustling streets of New York City, where the neon lights of Taco Bell beckon late-night snackers, there exists a different kind of hero—a savior of the city's feline inhabitants. His name? Paul, better known as "Paul the Cat Guy."

While most folks are winding down their Saturday nights with a Crunchwrap Supreme in hand, Paul is out on a mission that's a little more unconventional. You see, Paul isn't just there for the tacos; he's there for the cats. Yes, you heard that right—the cats.

These aren't your average house cats lounging on windowsills. No, these are the "Taco Bell Cats," a scrappy bunch of ferals drawn to the aroma of leftover chalupas and beef burritos. But Paul knows there's more to their story than just a late-night snack run.

With a heart as big as the city itself, Paul has been rescuing these street-smart felines since 2014. Armed with traps, neutering equipment, and an unwavering determination, he sets out into the night to make a difference—one cat at a time.

But Paul's mission isn't just about capturing and neutering; it's about compassion and care. With the help of generous supporters, he ensures these cats receive the medical attention they desperately need, from vaccinations to spaying and neutering.

You might think trapping a cat or two would be challenging enough, but Paul isn't your average rescuer. In just two nights, he managed to TNR over 25 Taco Bell Cats, a feat that speaks volumes about his dedication and tenacity.

And it doesn't stop there. Paul goes the extra mile, socializing friendly felines for adoption, giving them a second chance at a loving home. It's a labor of love that extends far beyond the confines of a drive-thru.

Paul Santell, known as "the Cat Guy," is celebrated as a local hero in Queens.

Taco Bell

Since 2014, Paul the Cat Guy has rescued thousands of cats, including the famous Taco Bell Cats, with support from generous backers.

Paul said

“I broke night two Saturdays in a row and trapped 25 cats. All have or will be spayed/neutered and vaccinated, with a possibility of a few of the more social ones being put into the PTCG foster network. The others will be returned to their colony free from the stresses of unfixed living. 

Here is the last batch of ‘Taco Bell Cats that I returned tonight after a bunch of them got fixed this past Tuesday. I spent the day cleaning all of my traps in anticipation of tomorrow night’s action: another double-digit haul of cats near the same Taco Bell. Fingers crossed”

Stray cats from Taco Bell locations are adopted as house pets.

Paul is passionate about rescuing cats.

“I’m outside year-round, breaking night more times than I can count, helping hundreds of cats each year while working a full-time day job. Cat rescue is my passion. The work is hard, but the payoff is seeing fewer homeless kittens being born outside and less suffering overall.”, said Paul.

So, the next time you're craving a late-night taco fix, spare a thought for Paul the Cat Guy, the unsung hero working tirelessly to ensure that even the city's most overlooked residents have a shot at a better life. Because in a city as wild and wonderful as New York, every cat deserves their moment in the spotlight.

Damjan