For the first time, an unhealthy kitten with “swimmer’s legs” is ecstatic to be running and climbing.
Two 9-week-old kittens were rescued by Stef and Milena from Montreal, Canada. They observed one of the kittens’ back feet were pointed to the sides when they arrived, and she had to crawl around on her tummy to get around.
They took the kittens to Chatons Orphelins Montréal, where they were given the names Naboo (orange and white) and Swimmy (black and white) (dilute calico).
According to Celine Crom of Chatons Orphelins Montréal, “the two small ones were skin and bones and covered with fleas and ear mites when we found them.”
“Swimmy has Swimmer’s Syndrome,” Celine said, “a developmental defect that caused her rear legs to splay laterally.” When she walked around, the dilute calico had to lift her rear legs. Despite everything, she was unstoppable.
Following the kitten’s consultation with a specialist, the team devised a strategy to increase the kitten’s mobility while also assisting her in regaining strength and functioning her rear legs. “With physical therapy, her health may be improved, and we are committed to provide her with the high quality of life that she so richly deserves.”
One of her activities takes place in a pool, where she paddles in the water with the assistance of a physical therapist. Swimmy has excelled in several sessions, receiving shouts and encouragement from volunteers and veterinary personnel. The courageous tiny kitty continues to swim in the water while repositioning her legs.
Celine added, “(Over the past several weeks,) Swimmy has acquired a great deal of strength in her rear legs, and they are now much straighter.” Swimmy zoomed about the room with such glee when she was strong enough to run on her hind paws. The neighborhood cats were mesmerized by the small enthusiastic runner and came up to give him a nose sniff.
Naboo, Swimmy’s sister, is her greatest supporter. She keeps her company when they slumber and encourages her to explore and discover new objects.
The two closest friends are enthralled by their VIP lifestyle, which allows them to be free of worries about food and comfort. Swimmy is much more active now, and she can run and climb like any other kitty. She’s always on the go, leaping to higher ground and catching everything that moves.
Watch our precious Swimmy and her journey in the video below:
