Meet precious wobbly boy Hank. He has cerebellar hypoplasia (CH) or what is often referred to as "wobbly cat" syndrome. He is healthy, happy and will have a regular lifespan. CH kitties do not get better or worse but will strengthen their muscles and confidence with play and time. They don't know they are special and are stereotypically the most loving kitties ever. This boy thrives on love, being held, cuddled, talked to, shown new toys and being a part of his human's life. This is not contagious to other cats but is generally the result of a feral mother not having her shots and being infected with panleukopenia (PLV).
Hank wants to be one of the gang. He chases our other kitties around the house, pounces on them the best he can, explores everywhere like a regular kitty, is not demanding and can self-entertain. He is content to go into his private room with his brother every night and does not scream to be let out. He is a bursty bundle of joy that loves life to the fullest and will win everyone's heart. Every day is a new adventure, all food is to be eaten with gusto, and new toys are the most exciting thing ever! Play is his goal.
When he has worn himself out, he is ready to curl up for a nice nap anywhere he finds, and his favorite, snuggled on your chest with a blanket. He's a fabulous companion and will entertain his family for hours.
Because he is a CH kitty, he is still struggling with his litterbox use. When he is in his room, he uses it well, when he is about the house, he sometimes goes where he is closest. We are working on this, and like the two CH kitties I already own, they are both attuned to using the litter box or a pee pad. (One of mine is more severe than the other.)
While owning a CH kitty takes a little more time, acceptance and help, they do not have any significant health issues, nor require any special medications. They are just like other kitties, have a regular life span, but may require some baths or rinsing due to wobbling when they use the bathroom. Generally, it's a 60 second hold under the faucet, that he is used to.
He does not require a special diet, but he must be safe from steps, running children who may step on him, and lower places to play. Most likely he will not climb steps, but if he is at the top, or on a high space, he will fall and most likely be hurt.
If you want a kitty that will repay your love 90-fold, Hank is your boy. He will need a kitty or dog friend, for alone, he would be very sad, even if you are home all day. He has a brother Murphy, also a CH kitty, that has more difficulty but still manages all his needs around the house.
If you are interested in adopting Hank, please apply and you will be able to contact me in person for more details. Application does not commit you, just shows true interest. I encourage you to do your research by watching videos and learning about CH. If you qualify, there may be a home visit to help identify areas of your house that could pose a problem. (Don't worry, it's not a huge change, just some suggestions, and a set of eyes that understand these kitties, as I have two myself. (The foster mom.)
This boy will reward you daily with more love than you ever thought possible, and he will carve a spot in your heart that will create a beautiful bond. Please consider adopting him if you have the heart, space and patience.
