The search for a missing black cat has united social media and news media following the escape of a longhaired beauty named Big Sexy (AKA Buddy) became spooked during a photo shoot with FDNY’s upcoming Calendar of Heroes.

Big Sexy AKA Buddy lost in NYC

NY Post has run multiple stories and even Inside Edition has joined the campaign to spread the word about the beloved cat. Owner Leslie Silbert is heartbroken and worried.

Big Sexy was at Engine 4/Ladder 15 on South Street on January 20 when he was spooked and ran under a fire truck. It’s believed that at some point he escaped the firehouse.

In an interview with NY Daily News Leslie updated those following the search stating

“I’ve gotten two non-Buddy possible pics.There’s been more media interest than kitty sightings. We are hoping hard that we find him. Most of all I hope he’s not suffering. If he could send me a postcard that said, ‘Hey, I found a better set-up, all is well, best wishes!’ I could deal. But the idea that my fluffy main squeeze is terrified and tortured with cold and hunger is what’s the hardest.”

The FDNY Calendar of Heroes collects proceeds that will go to the FDNY Foundation and Animal Care Centers and features firefighters and EMT’s with pets who were adopted from Animal Care Centers of NYC. Five cats and seven dogs were chosen to pose with the men and women of the department for the 2020 calendar.

Buddy was adopted from NYC ACC.

Anyone who has seen Buddy is asked to contact Leslie at (917) 826-2849.

Note: I chose the photo of Buddy alone for the feature picture because that gorgeous fireman was just too distracting. If you live in the vicinity where Buddy was lost, please keep an eye out for him.