Hope for our new kitten

**beerbecue** · 19th June 06, 07:23 AM

Hi All,

My wife and I have volunteered as foster parents for kittens, and until recently could maintain that detachment that it requires.

One of our newest kittens, Knuckles, has radial hyperdisplasia and polydactyly, and is a special needs kitten... We immediately bonded with him and have been inseparable all week.

After his routing vaccinations, he developed an upper respiratory infection and has not thrived as he should....

The shelter owner has taken him back today for a checkup, antibiotics, and X-rays (sometimes toes must be amputated with RH and polydactyly)

Our main concern is that she and the vet will decide that he may never thrive and have him euthanized.

For those of you with pets, you know what we must be feeling...

If you can, send positive thoughts to our kitten...

http://search.petfinder.com/petnote/...?petid=6343233

**Moose McLennan** · 19th June 06, 07:37 AM

Thinking of you and good luck to the wee man.

M., Mrs M., Hans, Pirat & Maus

**Big Paul** · 19th June 06, 07:48 AM

That poor little thing... My heart goes out to you...

**cormacmacguardhe** · 19th June 06, 09:52 AM

As the "parents" of several abandoned or dumped kittens my wife and I know how you are feeling right now. All my good thoughts and loving energy go out to your little friend.

**Wompet** · 19th June 06, 11:25 AM

Originally Posted by beerbecue

One of our newest kittens, Knuckles, has radial hyperdisplasia and polydactyly, and is a special needs kitten...

The shelter owner has taken him back today for a checkup, antibiotics, and X-rays (sometimes toes must be amputated with RH and polydactyly)

I can understand radial hyperdisplasia being a serious concern, especially in a kitten so young, but amputating for polydactyly?
Polydactyly (the possession of extra digits) is one of the most common genetic defects for housecats, and as DNA errors go, it's not that bad. I've known a couple of adult cats with 28 toes(18 being the regular number), and they got around just fine. Some polydactyl cats get along well enough that there's an old farmwife superstition that they're good luck (more toes=better grip on the mice; 1 year good luck per extra toe).

Hope things go well today, but I would consider getting a second opinion if they don't.

**ByDand** · 19th June 06, 11:43 AM

Our thoughts are with you and the wee one. One of our late cats was polydactyl (13 toes on two front feet) and he got along quite well. Looked like he was wearing boxing gloves when he sat down but had a great 18 years with us. I do pray you are able to keep that wonderful bundle. Please keep us updated.

**Scottish Chi** · 19th June 06, 01:12 PM

My chest just started hurting. I'm a sucker for any animal but especially those who are in need of help. I have 2 cats that my wife rescued and gave to me for Christmas a few years ago and I have become quite attached to them. Badger at the moment is in his usual place in my lap as I type. Both have respiratory problems that they/we have to deal with. The vet bills on occasion have required an adjustment in our budget but they will always come first. I hope Knuckles has a good checkup.

The polydactyl condition (as Wompet has stated) is usually not a problem in most cases. Earnest Hemingway had cats like this and their descendents are living at his old house in Key West and are quite a draw as a tourist attraction. I'm not familiar with radialhyperdisplasia.

I would hope that the decision is made in the best interest of Knuckles and that you would be willing to take care of him. If he is not in pain and can lead a relatively normal life with you and your wife taking care of him then why not give him a chance. It sounds like he has already been a positive influence in his short life so far.

I and my cats (I think they know what I am thinking sometimes) will be sending positive thoughts for Knuckles, you, and your wife.

Cheers! Bill

**beerbecue** · 19th June 06, 01:45 PM

Update:

Knuckles has an upper respiratory infection. We noticed the sneezing on Saturday, but today was the earliest he could get in..

He is currently under the care of the adoption agency, on antibiotics, and scheduled for x-rays this Friday.

Turns out that he was with this when he arrived at our house, and the symptoms did not present until almost a week later....

We are waiting to hear from the agency if we get to have him back or not....

The thing that sucks that if it was our cat, we would have had him in last week, and would not have waited for the agency.....

Here's hoping the meds kick in soon......

**beerbecue** · 19th June 06, 01:46 PM

Originally Posted by Wompet

I can understand radial hyperdisplasia being a serious concern, especially in a kitten so young, but amputating for polydactyly?
Polydactyly (the possession of extra digits) is one of the most common genetic defects for housecats, and as DNA errors go, it's not that bad. I've known a couple of adult cats with 28 toes(18 being the regular number), and they got around just fine. Some polydactyl cats get along well enough that there's an old farmwife superstition that they're good luck (more toes=better grip on the mice; 1 year good luck per extra toe).

Hope things go well today, but I would consider getting a second opinion if they don't.

The amputation is due to the RH, not polydactyly. It often causes claws to grow abnormally and become troublesome....

**Mr. Kilt** · 19th June 06, 02:13 PM

You're in my thoughts today. I hope everything works out well for the wee critter. I have a soft spot for cats, always loved them. My wife and I have 2, one who is diabetic. People who don't have cats cannot understand why we're willing to toss thousands of dollars into caring for our babies. Those who read this thread will understand.