The legless kittens are making remarkable strides in adapting to their current lives and are enjoying a happy existence together.

When a compassionate individual brought three tailless kittens to The Cattery Cat Shelter in Corpus Christi, Texas, the staff decided to name them after fictional rabbits: Peter Rabbit, Thumper, and Cecily Parsley. Katie Hatfield, the organization’s social media manager, explains that their lack of tails, coupled with their big ears and eyes, gave them the appearance of little bunnies.

At less than two months old, the kittens arrived at the shelter on April 3, 2018. A medical examination revealed that Cecily was born with Manx syndrome, a congenital condition that affects tailless cats and can lead to spinal and health issues like incontinence and partial paralysis.

The vet also discovered that Cecily, in addition to Manx syndrome, had malformed hind limbs that rendered her unable to use her back legs. As a result, she was given a permanent home at The Cattery Cat Shelter.

“At first, we were unsure of the challenges that lay ahead,” says Katie. “But as we consulted with the vet, we realized she would have this handicap, and we were more than willing and able to provide for her.”

Shortly after Cecily arrived at the shelter, she started chewing on her hind legs, causing serious injuries. Her self-injurious behavior increased the risk of infection, prompting the vet to make the decision to surgically remove her back legs, considering her inability to use them. “Since she was just a kitten at the time, she recovered quickly,” says Katie. It didn’t take long for Cecily to adapt to her new life as a two-legged cat.

Nearly three years later, Cecily is thriving. She currently resides in the Teen Room at The Cattery Cat Shelter, living alongside over 20 other cats. While many people assume that special needs cats cannot lead happy and active lives, Cecily isn’t much different from a typical feline.

“She uses the exercise wheel, runs around chasing her friends, and enjoys snacks and wet food,” shares Katie. “Although she can’t climb cat trees, she still uses cat scratchers and plays with toys. She is perfectly capable of living a normal, joyous life.”

The only noticeable difference is that Cecily wears diapers and requires regular baths due to her incontinence. “Wearing a diaper increases the risk of infection, so we must diligently bathe her twice a day and ensure she is in a clean diaper,” explains Katie.

Thankfully, the dedicated staff and volunteers at the shelter are committed to providing Cecily with the extra care and attention she needs to thrive, demonstrating that special needs cats can lead fulfilling lives. However, due to her incontinence and two legs, Cecily requires more extensive care compared to cats with minor disabilities such as missing eyes or legs. “There is a significant amount of behind-the-scenes time, effort, and financial investment involved in her daily care, including diapers, clothing, special food, routine vet visits, and tests to ensure her health,” Katie adds.

Fortunately, Cecily has found her forever home where she receives not only the necessary care but also the attention she craves. “Cecily loves being the center of attention,” says Katie. “During our weekly photo shoots, she eagerly positions herself in the center and poses for the camera.”

Thanks to her outgoing personality, Cecily has helped raise awareness about special needs cats at The Cattery Cat Shelter, dispelling any notions of pity towards animals just because they are different.