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Saturday, February 15, 2014

Cerebellar Hypoplasi. I Just Didn't Know! People who adopt special needs pets are our "unsung" heros....God bless them all!


As Triton and Sebastian grew we noticed that they were having trouble balancing and that their heads would move rapidly back and forth in a trembling motion. The vet diagnosed the kittens with a disorder called Cerebellar Hypoplasia (CH). CH affects the kitten's cerebellum growth which can cause mild to severe difficulties with coordination, balance and fine motor skills. During pregnancy the mother can contract bacterial infections or viral infections such as feline panleukopenia that result in the disorder. However, the disorder can also be caused by malnutrition, poisoning or injury to the mother during development of the fetus.

Most people assume the disorder is painful and/or contagious which is why so many CH cats are needlessly euthanized. Though this condition is not treatable, it does not prevent a kitten from living a fairly normal life. CH kitties are particularly affectionate and form strong bonds with their humans. They will repay the extra care they receive with years of love and devotion.

Triton and Sebastian are no exception. They are truly two of the happiest kittens we have ever had in our program. Though they have difficulty with balance and coordination they have absolutely no idea that they are different. They love to play with their toys, wrestle each other and lsnuggle together at the end of the day.

Go to www.pawsitivekarmarescue.com to learn more about Sebastian and Triton or to find out how to adopt.