A 5-month-old kitten has a rare condition and a unique look. He is so happy to be helped and adored.
Teddy the kitten has a distinct look on his face that is wise beyond his age. He was brought in to the Odd Cat Sanctuary in Salem, Massachusetts for a chance at a better life.
Tara Kay, the founder of the Odd Cat Sanctuary, was contacted by an animal rescuer who had a litter of kittens, and the little grey kitten stood out. His skin was unusually stretchy and droopy, even though he was just a few weeks old.
“She knew he was special, and reached out and asked us to take him on. We agreed,” Tara, whose rescue specializes in cats and kittens with special needs told.
When the kitten arrived and met a volunteer from the sanctuary, he immediately turned his purr motor on full blast. “He was purring nonstop. He gave hugs, rolled over for belly rubs and just loved people.”
Teddy was born with a rare condition called Feline cutaneous asthenia, also known as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS).
This genetic condition causes collagen deficiency in the body, and affects the strength and elasticity to the skin and ligaments.
“His skin is paper thin and can tear with no warning. He needs lots of special care for him, and we are ready to get him healthy,” Tara shared.
Teddy is the youngest cat with EDS at the rescue at just five months old. He has started treatment to help improve his skin quality and strength.
His wounds are healing well, and he turns into a lovey puddle of mush every time he is catered to.
“We plan to put nail caps on his nails and keep a sweater on him (to prevent tears). He has started a collagen supplement, and he is en route to recovery,” Tara told.
Teddy has been a cuddle-bug and a purr machine since he arrived at the rescue. He insists on getting attention from his people between naps and play sessions.
Being doted on and cared for makes him the happiest kitty in the world.
The sweet kitten sports a pair of droopy, sad eyes, but don’t let that fool you—he is as happy as can be. Nothing seems to bother Teddy as he runs around the room, getting zoomies just like any other kitten.
The presence of a human friend is enough to make him melt and burst out in purrs.
Teddy is a people-cat and determined to live life to the fullest.
“He loves to play, snuggle, and he loves his food. He has the best spirit through it all, and is so happy, thankful and purring nonstop,” Tara shared.
