Calvin on the day he came in for pictures |
Rosie |
A little bit about Cerebellar Hypoplasia
Feline cerebellar hypoplasia (CH) is a non-progressive, non-contagious neurological condition that results in walking and balance problems. A kitten is born with CH when her cerebellum, the part of the brain that controls fine motor skills and coordination, is underdeveloped at birth. Consequently, an underdeveloped cerebellum can result in underdeveloped or complicated mobility. CH cats are known for their “drunken sailor” walk, which is why they’re known endearingly as “wobbly cats.” Since the condition is non-progressive, it will never get worse — and in some cases, owners say that their cat became more capable over time [as they learn to adapt to their disability and develop muscles]. Source: lifewithchcats.com
Feline cerebellar hypoplasia (CH) is a non-progressive, non-contagious neurological condition that results in walking and balance problems. A kitten is born with CH when her cerebellum, the part of the brain that controls fine motor skills and coordination, is underdeveloped at birth. Consequently, an underdeveloped cerebellum can result in underdeveloped or complicated mobility. CH cats are known for their “drunken sailor” walk, which is why they’re known endearingly as “wobbly cats.” Since the condition is non-progressive, it will never get worse — and in some cases, owners say that their cat became more capable over time [as they learn to adapt to their disability and develop muscles]. Source: lifewithchcats.com
Daisy on the day we met |
When I started fostering
this trio, my goal was to get all of them adopted together. Rosie and
Calvin were extremely bonded, and although Daisy was more independent, I
thought it would be better for her to stay with her siblings. Although, I’m
pretty sure most of the foster volunteers were already placing bets about my
impending “foster fail,” I think the moment I knew was on August 9, when Paul
and TJ from the Engineer's Guide to Cats were at Feline Rescue on the day of the Cat Video Festival. I brought
the trio in for the open house, and I was being asked when they’d be available for
adoption. I didn't like the idea that they might be leaving me someday!
Paul and TJ with Calvin, Daisy and Rosie |
National Specially-abled Pets Day is May 3 so I wanted to share some information on what it’s like to live with
animals who would be labeled as “special needs.”
Rosie |
Cats with CH do require some
special considerations, but to what extent can vary from cat to cat. Even cats
in the same litter can be affected differently. The Tippy Tuxies had siblings
that were not affected at all. Calvin and Rosie walk and run pretty well, but
Calvin can’t jump at all, and Rosie can only jump a little bit. She’s good at
jumping up to the couch, for example, but the bed is a little too high so she
climbs. It helps that I have carpet thoughout most of my home. This gives them
traction and helps reduce their spills and also provide a little extra padding
for when they do fall. For Daisy, that carpet is essential because she needs it
for traction. She is not strong enough or balanced enough to walk very well on
slippery surfaces.
Calvin |
They have stairs to get up to the
bed and a tray under their water bowl to catch spills. Their litter boxes have
high sides and a low entry to make it easy to get in, but also for them to lean
against if they need to. I found a cat tower that has levels that are closer
together and easier for them to climb to the top, and also isn’t too high, so
that if they fall off (or jump from the top like Rosie does), they won’t get
hurt. And I try a little harder to find activities to keep them engaged.
Especially for Daisy who can’t burn energy by running chasing her siblings
around, it’s critical to find activities that help her develop muscle and keep
her mentally stimulated.
Daisy |
Walking still pretty hard for her, it takes all of her concentration to balance, take a step, and even just stand without support. It’s possible and even likely her walking skills will continue to improve over the next few months. I have hopes that she’ll be able to move around without tumbling over every few steps.
Daisy uses a wide stance to balance while standing and walking |
In honor of National Specially-abled Pets Day, May 3, please
spread the word about how truly
wonderful pets with “special” features can be!
Story and photos by Kris Kaiser
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