PetStyle

We hope that everyone feels the spirit of Jitterbug this holiday season. His story is one of triumph over heartache, courage over fear, and hope over hopelessness. This little man was born in the shelter to his beautiful mom, Princess. This is never an ideal situation for newborn kittens and often the outcome is not the best. Thanks to foster care, two siblings survived, but not without an uphill battle to fight. Jitterbug and his brother were both born with Cerebellar Hypoplasia. (Please see extended definition below.) Jive was the least affected of the two and is now residing in a loving forever home of his very own. These kitties are referred to as 'wobble cats' as overall balance and motorskills are often most affected. Jitterbug's symptoms are more apparent than his brother's were and adoptive parents need to be aware that he will require a certain amount of preparation and patience. Although given an initial prognosis that there wasn't really much she could do for him, Jitterbug's dedicated foster mom decided to try something bold. In hopes of helping Jitterbug build muscle tone, she took him to swim where her own dog frequently excercises at Joshica's Planet Canine in Elkhart, IN. He was their very first feline customer ever and did great on his initial excursion in the water. They are currently working on a regimen that will help him continue to build strength and stamina. Little 'Bug has a steadfast determination and an ability to learn his limits and compensate for his weaknesses. Yes, Jitterbug has some special needs. He also has a lot of love to give to that special someone. You can leave a message for Jitterbug's foster mom at 574-237-9108 or email info@pawsnpurrs.org if you think he might be the one for you. He is available for adoption through South Bend Animal Care and Control. Thank you very much to Pam and the gang at Planet Canine for helping this little guy reach his full potential!! (Wobble Cat) Cerebellar Hypoplasia is defined as a disorder found in cats and dogs in which the cerebellum is not completely mature at birth. Cerebellar Hypoplasia causes jerky movements, tremors and generally uncoordinated motion. The animal often falls down and has trouble walking. Tremors increase when the animal is excited and subside when at ease. The disease does not get better or worse with age, but the cat or dog can usually learn to somewhat compensate for it and should have a normal lifespan. Most afflicted animals can lead a fairly normal life if special considerations for the animal's disability are taken by the pet's owner.