spina bifida (?) kitten, NY

[critters]

Kitten with potential spinal cord malformation
Posted by: "Ashley" [email protected] ashshea7
Date: Wed May 28, 2008 10:50 am ((PDT))

Rochester, NY I discovered a disabled kitten on craigslist who is not
being vetted. A woman has taken in a litter plus the mother kitten;
however, she can't afford to vet them. I have offered to vet and place
the "runt" who also happens to be disabled. If anyone knows of a rescue
who may take her, please contact me directly at [email protected].
I would also love advice as to how to optimally care for a kitten with
this condition. She is approximately 8 weeks old and she presents with
a shortened tail, lame hind leg, and bowel/bladder issues. I would
sincerely appreciate any and all advice. I am experienced in dog rescue
but have limited experience with kittens. Thanks so much!!! -Ashley

[critters]

Now you can see a pic of the tiny little mite!!

[lvpets2002]

:love: Sorry I dont see the pic just yet.. Where is this wittle one located..

[critters]

Lemme see--the pic is in this thread. http://www.handicappedpet.net/helppets/viewtopic.php?f=18&t=11491&sid=193eb8f5155e5a1907cebd69c5676c47
They're in upstate NY. BTW, the foster mom started that thread there if you'd like to talk with her.

[lvpets2002]

:love: Aweee this wittle one is just too Adorable.. Wish I was closer.. This wittle baby will get a furr ever home in no time..

[critters]

This wittle baby will get a furr ever home in no time.. I don't know; spina bifida babies are harder to place because of the possibility of urinary and mobility problems. :( I hope you're right, though!!

[Medusa]

So how's it going w/finding this little one a home? I can't imagine how a shortened tail and lame hind leg would pose too much of a problem. My Puddy has both of those conditions and she's gotten around just fine for 14 years. As for the bowel/bladder problems, would a diaper be a possibility? Just asking. The hopeful look in this sweet one's eyes in haunting as if to say "Please love me".

[critters]

But it doesn't stop at the tail and a wonky leg. :( Ashley says, "The kitten has a spinal malformation and requires assistance with feces removal and possibly urine expressing as well." The poop part may settle out with lactulose and/or more fiber; expressing tends to be better than diapers because diapers can lead to skin problems (AKA diaper rash), plus those with a tight sphincter won't leak pee until they're overflowing, which isn't good for either bladder or kidneys. Expressing isn't hard, but it takes practice to learn to feel the bladder.

[critters]

I just heard that this baby is going to a sanctuary, http://www.springfarmcares.org/aboutus.htm .