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CH Kitty Club Newsletter

December 2011                                Issue #15

Tardy Peebucket

Hi everyone!

 

Time to get ready for the holidays!! Are we all wishing for some wonderful catnip toys and special food treats? I know I am, oh and Ziggy too, all he can talk about is catnip and toys now! He's such a kid !!! I'm sure the Mommy cat and the Daddy cat will be giving us lots of toys, treats and LOVE for the holidays : )) 

 

 

We also would like to offer these wonderful CH Kitty pins when you make a donation to the CH Kitty Club. That helps us keep things rolling! It helps the newsletter and  the website. Donate if you can; every little bit helps!

 

 

Tardy Peebucket...President of the Holidays!!! 

 

www.TardyPeebucket.com  

[email protected] 

 

 

Donate   

$5.00 will get you the button :  )) 

THANK YOU!!!  

 

CH Kitty of the Month...MollyAnn

 
by Joanne D. Switzer

Living on the streets of Hartford, Connecticut, a baby kitten fending for herself, MollyAnn had
an inauspicious and tenuous beginning. It was the loving hands of the folks at "Protectors of
Animals," a non-profit, no-kill shelter, that gave MollyAnn a second chance at life, as long as a suitable family was willing to adopt her.  It was a visit to our local PetsMart that this delicate
little life intersected with ours.


To digress, our family had been grieving the recent loss of our little girl, Mallory Ann, a
beautiful snow white Persian who showed up on our door step in W. Palm Beach, Florida, 12 years earlier. Mallory had a plethora of health issues that day so long ago. She was emaciated, malnourished, had tumors and mites in both ears, and that was what was visible. After inquiring with our neighbors to determine if Mallory already had a family, we decided to bring her to our family vet to begin addressing her various health issues. Since Mallory Ann lived outdoors the first couple years of her life, she was severely at risk, and her early life consisted of dealing with her various medical issues. Mallory was always grateful for her care and treatment. So, when we accepted the Pratt transfer to CT, Mallory Ann immediately connected with Caitlyn, the Vet Tech at our new family vet. We began a wonderful relationship with Dr. DeNapoli who always took special care and interest in this little girl with the happy disposition, always purring despite whatever medical treatment she was receiving. At the end of her life, she was suffering from thyroid disease and renal failure, and that was just the beginning.

IV fluids were administered every day to ensure and replenish adequate nutrition and liquids.
Each and every day brought something new with her care and treatment, and our lives revolved
around her care. We couldn't even remotely envision life without this little girl to love and care for. 

While lying cradled in my arms, MalloryAnn had a stroke at 2:30 a.m. the day after Mother's Day, 2010. Thankfully, she had a merciful and gentle passing. With the glow of candlelight throughout our bedroom and strains of Jimmy Buffett playing in the background, Earl and I lay by her side all night until she drew her very last breath early that morning. It was the least we could do for a cat who taught us so much and asked for so little.

As a family, we were lost. There was no Baby Girl, MalloryAnn, to love and adore - to cater
to her every whim. We were devastated. Brother Dave suggested adopting a cat, as did my husband Earl. "Nah... Too soon...." And, always after that came the obvious statement: "Mallory was unique... there would only be one MalloryAnn."

As the days and weeks wore on, missing Mallory as I did, I desperately tried to call upon my memory to hear the sweet sound of Mallory's happy-go-lucky, loving purr that always brought joy to my heart. Mallory's purr sounded more like a "purr-song" than just a mere kitty purr! Earl and Brother Dave decided that the time was right to "just visit the kitties" that were available for adoption at the local PetsMart.



Retrospectively, I truly believe that this "little impromptu visit" was set up prior to me ever stepping foot in PetsMart that day! As we approached the area designated for cats,
MollyAnn lay in her bed, seemingly unaffected by the prying eyes of those looking to adopt a
cat. She looked rather regal and serene in her "cube" - a collection of individual suites which
were affixed together, much like a glass condo building.


Dave requested of the store manager a private visit with Molly. Although he graciously obliged, he also gently advised that we probably wouldn't want this particular kitten because she "walked funny" and had some sort of "neurological damage to her legs." He also indicated that several families thought she was beautiful and expressed interest in adopting her, but didn't because they figured she would require extensive, expensive medical care. Dave insisted that we spend some time with Molly so we could form our own decision as to Molly's needs. When Molly was taken from her glass suite and placed on the floor, it was obvious she had a limp and impediment of some kind because her legs collapsed under her as she walked.


But, she was smart then, as she is now. When Molly's legs give way, as they often do, she
immediately lays down. Smart girl!!


In an effort to hear the sweet sounds of kitty purr, I gently scooped this little girl into my arms, whereupon, Molly began to purr melodiously! This wasn't just any purr, mind you, this was a full-on, deep, throaty, happy purr of gratitude. It was in that moment that I knew that MollyAnn would be ours - neurological disorders or not. Molly spent one more night in the PetsMart Kitty Condo while the adoption papers were processed. Earl and Brother Dave made only one request to the folks at Protector's of Animals: Molly's adoption be completed so she could go home with us on my birthday.


Brother Dave always said that MollyAnn hit the Kitty Lottery that day in 2010 - and he was right!!! Molly has grown and flourished in ways I could never have anticipated. While she did not, and could not, fill the void left by our precious Mallory Ann, Molly created a new place in all of our hearts that grows each and every day. We were told by the folks at Protector's of Animals that Molly is a Turkish Van cat, a unique and intelligent breed of cat originally from the Eastern Mediterranean. They are the only known cats who like to swim (yes, we catch Molly playing in the toilets and showers frequently!). They also possess many dog-like qualities and, many times, Molly can be seen following behind us right along with big (dog) brothers, Bentley and Marley.

Always on the alert and ready to engage in play, this is one breed who rarely naps. If she isn't hyper-vigilantly laying in wait in the screened porch awaiting a visit from "Chipper", our resident chipmunk, Molly is inconspicuously lurking around walls and furniture in an effort to stage a sneak attack on unsuspecting feet and ankles! She is a character and keeps us all hopping!!


While aware that Molly Ann suffered from some sort of walking impediment, it was a Facebook post from one of my dear friends from high school, Wil Pierson, that put a fine point
on matters and changed everything. "Shakey Puddin' Pie" ("the well-traveled Kitty"), was
bestowed the honor of "September 2011 CH Kitty of the Month." As Shakey's Daddy, Wil posted a beautiful, insightful story about living with a cat with Cerebellar Hypoplasia


I highly recommend reading Wil and Shakey's story. As I digested each and every word Wil had written about life with Shakey, it became clear that Molly's condition was similar, if not identical, to Shakey's. I will be forever grateful to Wil and his darling girlfriend, Deb (Martin), who I have also come to love, admire and adore, that Molly's issues were finally diagnosed and addressed. Deb Martin is a CH Adoption Specialist and one of those special people who work tirelessly to affect change, increase awareness and save the lives of cats and dogs afflicted with CH. Debbie is a powerhouse with her incredible, unwavering, indomitable spirit, and it is her tireless dedication and commitment that continues to elevate awareness about these special babies.


Extra-special kudos and friendship to my girl, Lizzie Holochwost, founder of the CH Kitty Club,  and her babies, Tardy PeeBucket and Ziggy, also CH Kitties.

Lizzie also works tirelessly bringing awareness and understanding to the public about animals with Cerebellar Hypolpasia.
MollyAnnPlaying.mp4
Molly Ann playing



It was my belief then, as I believe now, that you accept the animals who grace your life as you
find them. It didn't matter to us what ailed MollyAnn; however, we only knew then as we know
now, that we would give her the best care and treatment that we could provide. For these little
guys who give so much and ask for nothing, how could we give anything less??!!!



Molly Ann and Joanne D. Switzer

November 27, 2011

  
How I Found My Two CH Kitties, and How I Learned About CH

"Bumbles & Sassy"
 


by Pat Kiefer

I was volunteering at a cat rescue facility after retiring from work. A friend of mine from work called and said they were feeding a stray cat in their garage.  They noticed she was pregnant and it was in January - very cold and snowy. They were worried about her. The next morning I went to pick her up, and behold! The kittens had come that night. Two kitties. I picked them up and off to the facility we went.

After about two weeks, we noticed the kitties were not moving as they should be and had shaking in the head/neck. Knowing nothing about CH at that time, we took the kitties and mom to the vets. The Mom was healthy, but the vet diagnosed CH in both kitties.

After about another month in the facility, the  head of the facility told me that if no one took the kitties, they would be put down.  I volunteered to foster the mom and kittens in my home with hopes of finding a place for them or possibly having Best Friends take them in. I kept them until weaned, and then Mom was fixed and put up for adoption. She was adopted after only 3 hours!  She was a good mother and a very active cat. It was a very happy ending for her.

Of course, Best Friends could not take the girls, Bumbles and Sassie, but put me in touch with someone there who is very experienced with CH kitties and who had several in her home. She was of great help and encouragement  and also introduced me to the CH group on Yahoo.

Now I am sure you all know what happened! No one to adopt them and I was not to allow putting them down sooooooooooooooo, they are all mine. I purchased a  stroller and took them out often. It was pretty funny when I would run into other walkers who were very surprised to hear meowing instead of baby talk! They have a nice cat tree to watch outdoors and be up above ground and can look out at my bird feeders.

I have 3 other cats, normal, but surprisingly only one of them took to the kittens, so I have a separate but equal household. When the kittens are upstairs the cats are downstairs and vice versa!

The CH cats have the run of the house and yard (with supervision) and are very active and I think happy. I know I am!
  

My First Experience with CH Kittens

 

 

By: Suzanne Hart 

 

(THE RESCUE OF THE GAS STATION KITTENS IN CAMPBELLFORD, ONTARIO)

 
I received a phone call from a former feral cat client. She told me there is a very sick kitten at a gas station in Campbellford and asked me to go check on the kitten. I called a friend (Eileen) who lives near there and asked her to please check on the kitten. She told me she had also received a call from a friend saying there are kittens at the gas station that look very ill. Eileen went to the gas station to check on them. She called me when she got home and said she had seen a couple of the kittens and they looked all wobbly and staggering. Eileen said she spoke to an employee, and he was so glad someone was finally going to do something about the kittens. He told her there were four of them: two could hardly walk and two were not quite so bad. He said they are wild and you can't touch them. I said I would like to see them and speak to the manager who we have been trying to get to spay/neuter/maintain for over a year. Meanwhile I was remembering everything I have read on Facebook, SpecialNeeds InNeed Postings about Cerebellar Hypoplaysia in cats. I have never seen a CH cat in person; I have seen videos and have read a lot of info on the disorder.
   
Eileen and I went the next day to see these little guys. When we got to the gas station there was a beautiful tortie and a much smaller black kitten outside. I knew as soon as I saw them that they had CH. They looked just like the videos. I have always had a soft spot for Special Needs humans and animals. I was already thinking what I could do to save these beauties; I would do all I can to keep them alive. They are so misunderstood, they are not ill just because they shake, stumble or wobble. I remembered the SpecialNeeds InNeed page on Facebook and hoped they could help us. We went into the store and spoke with the clerk, who said the manager had already taken one kitten to the vet; it had a disease from interbreeding. She said something had to be done, the manager was leaving his job and corporate was taking over the business, she didn't know what would happen to the cats (there are about 12 being fed there including the kittens). I asked why she hadn't called the Humane Society, she replied that she did not want any trouble. I said "that's fine but who is suffering in this situation, THE CATS". She said "I know but...." The lady said the manager was keeping the kitten that could not walk at all. We asked when he would be available to talk. So I made another trip to Campbellford the following day to speak with him. He explained to me that he took the worst affected kitten to the vet. I asked if the kitten had CH, and he said yes. He couldn't pronounce it but that is what the vet had determined. I asked why he hadn't called me, and he never really answered. I told him I would do my best to find help for these babies, I do not think they will survive the winter outside. He said they are tougher than you think; I did not want to find out.

I went home and immediately posted on Facebook SpecialNeeds InNeed about these kittens. I had a very quick response from Deb, who had spread the word far and wide. She said she had a contact in Ontario and had contacted her and given her my contact info. I soon was in contact with Heather from Urban Cat Relief who said she would take the four kittens and foster them until they find forever homes. I could not believe how fast this all happened. I truly thought I would lay awake at night worrying about the kittens. I agreed to catch them and have them neutered through our feral program. I went very early Halloween morning to the gas station before it opened and met the manager; he feeds them before he opens up every morning. All of the CH kittens were there. He said you can't touch them and that one had bitten him when he tried to pick it up. So I put on my heavy gloves and got my net and carriers all lined up and ready. I caught them all within 1/2 an hour, they were much quicker than I expected. I didn't get bitten, thankfully; I usually do more than I'd like. Cats are very quick and often bite when they are frightened; I don't blame them at all.
   
I brought the little darlings home and put them in my cat room downstairs. They were pretty stressed at first but settled quickly and let me pet them and hold them. The tortie (Skittles) started purring as soon as I picked her up and soon they were all curled up in their cat bed purring away. I fed them and left them to rest for a while. The next time I went down they were playing with the cat toys. They didn't use the litter boxes the first day, they pooped in and on the cat towers, tents and scratching posts but by the second day they were using the smaller litter boxes I had given them, they couldn't get into the taller boxes. The two bigger kittens are friendlier, a black male (Sonny) and a tortie girl (Skittles). The two smaller ones have more severe CH. They are both black males one has a white spot on his chest (Seth) and the other is all black (Spencer). Seth and Spencer both had poop on there back feet that has been there for a long time so I soaked them in warm water to try and get it off. The smell is bad but the water helps remove most of the dried on, packed in mess. I am in awe of these kittens. They do everything other kittens do and don't seem to know they are different. They really eat and drink a lot. I am in love and would keep them all if I didn't already have five of my own cats, four foster cats, a dog, and a rabbit. They are such sweet little darlings. I'm sure they will make wonderful companions for someone very soon. They will all need some socialization and time spent getting use to people. We are going to try to find homes for the rest of the friendly cats and TNRM the rest of the residents at the gas station. There is a man near there who opens his garage door a bit and feeds them in the winter. We are going to speak with him soon to be sure he will continue.       

 

I am so grateful to have been a part of these amazing kittens' lives if even for a short time. I will love and remember them always. I want to thank Heather Thomas, Jackie Riddle and Deb Martin for all of the help and support they have given these special precious kittens and me.
   

 

 

These CH Kitties are for adoption and if you are interested and would like to find out more or meet these kitties, Please contact Heather Thomas with Urban Cat Relief.

 

Please email :   [email protected]

  

 "To the world you are just one more rescue person. To a rescued pet, you are the world." 

   
My First Experience With a CH Kitty and How he Touched My Life. (Wallis, and here's his story)

 
Sarah Kirkland, United Kingdom

 

I was visiting a local cat rescue center when the workers told me about Wallis, that he was born with a condition that made his legs "wobbly".  I had seen the "This is Charley" video on YouTube so wasn't put off in any way; sadly, it had put other people off.  Wallis had been adopted out before but returned because of his toilet habit of missing the litter tray (that age old CH trick!), and since he had come back he was really nervous and spent all day hiding in his igloo.  As soon as I stroked him, he fell against me purring.  I knew I had to have him!

 

Wallis was a little scared when we got home, and the first time I produced a plastic bag to clean up the litter, he literally wet himself with fear. My first vet was amazed that at 2 years old he was still alive with this condition.  That made me wonder how much UK vets actually know about it.   The second vet we saw when Wallis had to have his vaccinations seemed a little more clued up.  The vet agreed that the symptoms matched Cerebellar Hypoplasia and that Wallis was a mild case and could live a full and happy life.

 

Wallis has really grown in confidence. He has met and mastered the challenge of stairs, and he loves a wobble around the garden.  He has fallen head over heels in love with the neighbor's cat Rosie and wobbles around the garden after her. He adores my other three cats and has taken under his wing my new kitten who was born with a deformed back leg.  He still has his plastic bag phobia though!  But life with Wallis is great.  My friends who have met him have all fallen in love with him and he has managed to change their minds about living with a disabled animal.  Out of our four cats Wallis has cost us the least in vet bills! I have a feeling that most kittens with CH in the UK are put to sleep as it is seen as kinder.  I don't think enough people are aware of it.  I am trying to change that with the help of my grey and white wobble machine!



o
 Adoptable Angels
gathered by Debbie Martin

Beautiful Ten Month Old CH Lynx Point Siamese Mix In Alexandria, VA!

 

 

This beautiful 10 month old lynx point Siamese mix female needs a great home! She is super sweet and lovable and great with other cats and all people. Neurologically, she seems ok but her back legs don't work well. She gets around but can't really jump. She has had all her shots and has been dewormed. She was rescued from a high kill shelter in NC. I dont believe she's been spayed.

  
She's a lovebug and loves to sit in your lap and give affection, however she doesn't like to be held. 

There is  an adoption application in which I will review and call references/vets, also an adoption contract which states they have to be an indoor only cat, never declawed, spayed if not already done,etc.


Brittany Athey



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Peachie - CH Kitty for Adoption at Best Friends Society in Utah

         (Update on Peachie) 

                                      

By: Melanie Amaya Voluneer at Best Friends

Gathered by: Newest CH Kitty Advocate Patty LaQuay and sponsor of kitties at Best Friends Society

 

** You may recall Peachie as we networked for nearly a year to find her a home in Utah, with no takers and with the closing of the vets office Peachie needed a place to go. Heather Simms Thompson told us of Peachie's journey to Best Friends in August.  She and her father filled up their truck with donations for Best Friends and took Peachie to her new home to continue her seach for an adopter to take her home furever!!!

 

Read the August article on Peachie 

 

Peachie is a beautiful 2 � year old marmalade tabby that came to Best Friends on 6/6/2011. Peachie was born with CH (cerebellar hypoplasia) which is a neurological condition that makes it hard for cats to control their muscles. Peachie came from a veterinary clinic that was closing in Bountiful, UT.

 

I had never seen a CH cat before, so the day I met Peachie, when she wanted to go anywhere, she would just tumble her way there. She banged her head and the rest of her body terribly. My heart broke when I watched her. But that was before I got to know her.  

 

Peachie has to be one of the most determined kitties that I have met. When she sets her mind to do something or go somewhere, well, you better get out of the way. The first night she was in the building where I volunteer, they put her in the bathroom with baby bumpers all the way around. Well, that was not to her liking and by morning she had them all over the place. That is when they (the caretakers) decided she could stay out. That was the beginning of her wonderful journey.  

 

Every time I came to volunteer, which is three times a week, I could see an improvement in her strength. She began to hold herself up more on her front legs and that alone strengthened them. Then she started taking tentative steps, and then more and more. Now she uses her back legs spread out for stability and walks across the whole lobby and I have even seen her lunge at one of the other cats (a cat that is very nervous and seems to get picked on a lot, even by Peachie). She improves and is stronger each time I see her.  

 

When I am there, I pick her up for cuddles. Now, she pretends that she doesn't want it and meows very loud and mournfully like I am really bugging her. But I'm onto her, so I sit down and hold her against me and then the magic happens. She calms down and just melts into me with her head under my chin and purrs and loves having her chin scratched. She has a tough exterior but she is a marshmallow inside. You just have to give her the chance to show you (and her).  

 

Best Friends Animal Sanctuary has a wonderful, peaceful place called Angel's Landing. It is a natural amphitheatre with a nice grassy area and on certain mornings they open it to just cat outings. I started taking Peachie on some outings and she absolutely loved them. For the first few, she did her best to walk around (she was still rather clumsy at that point) but after a few times, she just wanted to sit in my lap and enjoy the peace and quiet with me. We both loved it. But I had to stop taking her because you have to go on a very rough road to get there and being in a crate on that rough road just stressed her too much. I guess when your body is already shaking from CH, the extra roughness is just too stressful. Then a few weeks ago, a couple of wonderful girls, Patty LaQuay and Leslie Cobb, were at the sanctuary, and we took her on an outing. She was not stressed when one of the girls was holding her on their lap on the rough road. She so enjoyed being back at the Landing. We put her on a blanket when we got there and she started making biscuits right away. She was relaxed, tried to walk a little, lunged at a few bees and just had a wonderful time. Here are some links to the videos that I posted on youtube showing her outings.

 

Peachy's outing
Peachy's outing
Peachy's outing continued
Peachy's outing continued
Peachy's 2nd outing
Peachy's second outing
Peachy's 2nd outing continued
Peachy's second outing continued
Peachie's 3rd outing
Peachie's third outing

Peachie loves to play with toys and will do her best to chase balls and little stuffed toys. She loves climbing in boxes that have been placed on their side. As I said, she has a strong will and is a determined little girl. She climbs up into cubby holes that are fairly high up. She doesn't really play with any of the other cats but once she gets to know them, she doesn't bother them either (except for that nervous one that everyone picks on). In fact, she and Nora have been sharing a bed by the door that gets a little sunshine. She does fine with eating although the CH does make her peck at her food. Sometimes I go over and hold her head just to make it a little easier, but she doesn't need my help.  She will go to the bowl, lie down and pull it to her and eat. She does head to the litter box but doesn't always make it, and will go right beside it. But she tries, and if we see her heading that way, we will pick her up and put her in it and she will go. Then she jumps out of it faster than you would think she could. It's quite comical. Since she doesn't always make it, she does need butt baths but she is very good about her mini baths. Then we usually put her in a bed with some blankets that have been warmed up in the dryer and she snuggles down and doesn't move from the bed.

Here are a few videos of her playing in a box. She was very wound up that day.  

 

Peachie having fun with a box
Peachie having fun with a box

 

Peachie and the box part 2
Peachie and the box part 2

 

Peachie will do so well in a home and I hope that she finds her forever home soon. She is a sweet, beautiful girl that will stumble right into your heart if you give her a chance.  

Also here is the direct link for Peachie at  Best Friends   

 

Peachie (Resides in the lobby of Morgaine's Place)    

 

Please email Best Friends if you would like more information and to adopt Peachie:  Cat adoptions: [email protected]

Also, here are the other CH Kitties at Best Friends looking for their furever homes!
 
Duke (Resides in the lobby of Quincy House)

Lilah (Resides in the lobby of Quincy House)

Tumbles (Resides in the lobby of Benton's)  
 To find out more about Best Friends, please visit their website.
                                                                      
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JAX

 

Six month old Male Bengal Mix in  Stockton, California

 

 

Jax 
Jax

 

Jax is a special needs kitty. He was born with a condition called Cerebellar Hypoplasia.   

 

This condition does not affect his life expectancy, it just makes him rather uncoordinated but that does not stop this special little guy. He may jump off the sofa and land in a heap on the floor, but he just picks himself up, and off he goes. He walks kinda funny, and sometimes when he sits his head bobs kinda like a bobble head toy. He is funny, sweet and very inspirational.

Jax is still a kitten with lots of kitten energy. He can be very sweet and will lay with you when he is tired but when he has energy he wants to experience it all. He loves to explore and wants to know what you are doing and is always there with an over exuberant offer to help.

Jax loves people, other cats, and even cat friendly dogs. He actually will wrestle with his foster mom's dogs. He would do well with older children. He needs a home that will protect him, understand him, and be patient with him.

 

Please see more photos of Jax.

Jax is being fostered in the Stockton area.

Contact Cyndi at (707) 301-7377 or  [email protected] 

 

                     ************

A Special CH Kitty in Los Angeles Area Needs an Angel!

Meet Pepper, a Cerebellar Hypoplasia kitten who has had a rough go since he has other issues besides CH.   Also attached is a photo of his foot that kind of resembles a Kangaroo foot.

Little Pepper is past wobbly.... his hips can't seem to support passing stools anymore.    He has little control over his stools and is dropping them in the home.  He also cannot hold them in when held or lifted.    He could wear a diaper or do well in a home or environment where it is no big deal to pick up a poop! 

  

Pepper also has a  CH sister named Sandy and she is just fine and gets along just great!!!  They are a bonded pair and if need be, will allow both of them to got together to ensure a proper home who will love them both.   But Pepper needs a home please!

 

Pepper is located in Los Angeles and is desperately seeking a home, foster or sanctuary who will love, adore and understand him and his needs! 

  

  

Please contact ASAP Please!!!!!:
[email protected]

************

 

Logan, 4 month old CH Kitty in Phoenix, Arizona needs a new home ASAP!

 

  

Meet Logan, a 4 month Cerebellar Hypoplasia kitten in Phoenix, Arizona.  Logan and his sibling were found stumbling on the side  of a road in Arizona in the heat of the summer.  Logan  is mild/moderate CH has a few occasional accidents out of the litterbox but usually next to the litter box.   

  

Logan is  absolutely a wonderful cuddle bug who would melt anyone's heart.  He loves to play and is a very happy little boy who can do all kinds of activities and gets along just find without any problems.  

  

I am forced to rehome Logan along with other cats of mine and need to do this quite fast due to life and financial changes! 

  

Logan  is in need of neutering and shots as I have not had the time nor money to have them done.

  

Please please consider adopting Logan.

  

Contact me at  my email ASAP Please. 
  
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Four CH Kittens In Indiana Need a Miracle of a Rescuer or Adopter ASAP Please!

 

(NO Photos) 

  

Sue is fostering four CH kittens from Griffith Animal Shelter in Griffith, Indiana,  near Crown Point. Three seem mild, one moderate. There are two boys and two girls - all black DMH cats. She can only  keep them about one week longer. They are seven weeks old (born October 9th). They all use the litterbox, although one occasionally needs baths and an elevated food bowl. One can stand to eat and poo, but is behind the others. The other two can run and jump but are not "normal". She is afraid if she takes them back to the shelter they will be PTS. Her daughter w/three cats and two dogs is moving in tomorrow, so she can only keep them a few days longer.

  

Sue Matthews Phone # 219-308-4819  

  ************  

CH Kitty Member Needs Our HELP In Poughkeepsie, New York With Placement Of Her 2 CH Cats  

 

 

 

From Rosemary:

 

It is with great sadness that I need to re-home Hope and Munchkin, their story is posted on the CH Kitty Club website.

 

My finance died 2 weeks ago suddenly in my arms while we were waiting to be boarded for a plane, and we were to be married in December. He was my sole provider and that of all my animals and there are many. The 3rd CH'er who I adopted from the CH Kitty Club, Giselle will stay with me as she is so attached and needy that re-homing is not an option.



 

Please help if you can. Hope and Munchkin are siblings but are not close to each other. It would be nice for them to go together but if not I will accept it.
 
I live in New York, close to Poughkeepsie, New Paltz, upstate area. I can transport them if necessary.

 

Thank you for your help.

 

Rosemary

 

 
************
 Desperate in Connecticut! 


 

CH kitty Mojo needs new home or rescue desperately in Connecticut!

The owner will transport to anybody who can help within a reasonable distance.

(Wobols is the one not wearing a sweater, the one in the sweater has been adopted.)

Wobols is approximately 5 years old. He gets around well, although he seems to have trouble with his back legs - but can walk and 'jog'. He uses a litter box, although a box with higher walls (such as a covered box) is best for him as he occasionally (very rarely) will overshoot the wall of a low box. He is neutered, and is due to go in shortly for his yearly exam so that will be taken care of before he goes anywhere. I don't know if he has ever had a combo test? I adopted him when he was a year old, and that wasn't mentioned to me. He is very friendly and loveable, a little shy at first when it comes to meeting people or animals, but he warms up very quickly. He likes dogs once he gets to know them, but has no trouble at all letting them know if they are too close to him.  
 
And the reason why I will need to find another location for Wobols is due to the economy, two of my family members will be coming to live with me for an extended period of time ( at least 2 years) and one of them is extremely allergic to cats. Unfortunately I live in a 1,200 square foot, two bedroom condo - so there isn't alot of room to separate the people from the cats. :-( 

I would definitely give a donation to any rescue group that wound up taking them, 

 

Please Contact Kris ASAP PLEASE!
Telephone # 203-715-3357 
 
 

Update On Jadey and Her College Project About Cerebellar Hypoplasia

 

Last month we met Jadey who is a volunteer with Laura Ritter, founder of Harbor Hope Cat Rescue in Gig Harbor, WA. She is an inspiring young lady who at the age of seventeen will be one of our future advocates for special needs kitties and especially CH kitties!  Jadey is already in college and her goal is to receive her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine.  Jadey extends her sincere thanks to all of you who contacted her with informiaton as she works on her project for Cerebellar Hypoplasia!    

 

Thank you everybody!   Debbie Martin

 

(Last months introduction of Jadey in the CH Kitty Newsletter)

 

 

Kill a Disabled Person or Kill a Special-Needs Cat?

                                                                        

Jadey Simmons 

                                                             

                                                           Experiential Learning

                                                                            Professor Perotti

                                                                             November 2011 

 

One specific condition found in cats, deemed worthy of death in today's society, is cerebellar hypoplasia (CH). Evident from birth, these cats have noticeable balance issues and a severe lack of coordination. The term cerebellar hypoplasia, broken down, means the cerebellum is underdeveloped. The cerebellum is the part of the central nervous system that allows you to move without having to think about how to. It receives information from your balance system to interpret where everything is in relation to your body, enabling you to freely walk without consciously telling yourself to lift one foot, set it back on the ground, and then repeat with the other. Because their cerebella are not developed enough to allow them free conscious movement like we have, CH cats have a tendency to fall, stumble, flip, and lean against things for more support.  

 

For the most part, when a person notices a 'wobbly' cat, they don't know what to do because they lack education on the condition.  The idea that the cat is suffering and has a serious issue is a common fallacy; so when a person believes this fallacy, they take it to the veterinarian who, also possibly uneducated on the condition, recommends they put it 'out of its misery' with euthanasia. One of the biggest problems in society is people ignoring problems or avoiding anything that brings about a challenge or struggle; therefore they take the easy way out and euthanize any animal they see that needs a little extra effort. An ideal society would live with unconditional tolerance and acceptance of all living beings. We accommodate people with disabilities just as there are organizations for special-needs animals, so we must take advantage of these resources and educate people to raise awareness. Cerebellar hypoplasia cats are entitled to their rights to live because of their eagerness to love as well as ability to live independently and happily; therefore, education on the condition will prevent the needless murder of these cats.

 

In ancient Egyptian history, cats were first used as a pest-control tool, but after time humans became emotionally attached to them. Statues, drawings, and mummified cats were discovered in tombs which revealed the spiritual and ritualistic values that cats held in Egyptian life. Moreover, killing cats outside of rituals became a capital crime which Diodorus Siculus, a historian, recorded, "Whoever kills a cat in Egypt is condemned to death," (Grzimek 290). Ten thousand years ago, cats were worshipped and it was a crime to kill them but in these modern times, their value has declined so much that some humans neglect, abuse, and murder them.

 

With a mindset that domesticated animals exist to please humans, people tend to love their pets with reserve. Conversely, ever since I was a baby I have loved animals and felt the other way - animals are taken advantage of by humans and it should be them who receive the love and attention. When I was a toddler, I was continuously surrounded by pets who fascinated me with the grace in which they moved, the love and affection they gave, and the innocence of their whole selves. As I grew older, I dreamed of being a veterinarian and caring for sick animals who do not have a voice of their own. To further my progression to become a vet, I chose to volunteer at Harbor Hope Cat Rescue, a rehabilitation shelter for traumatized, injured, sick, or special needs cats, in Gig Harbor. I chose this site to gain hands-on experience and a better understanding of all animals, not only the perfect 'adoptable' ones. I hoped to leave with the knowledge that I made a difference in the cats' lives; I knew I would when I met my first CH kitty.

 

At Harbor Hope, I met five CH cats named Shamrock, Tina, Trevor, Elf, and Lucas. They shine in their eccentric personalities and wobbly walks. Elf and Lucas quickly found homes and were adopted by couples who fell in love with their adorable uncoordination, sweet cuddles, head bobbles, and playfulness. Shamrock even has an interested potential adopter to take her to a forever home. Tina and Trevor are siblings with a sad story and traumatizing past; they are more shy but they have a strong-spirited sibling love that no one could shatter. However, they could teach any human the lessons of perseverance and love. A commonality between all of these cats is how they adapt to their condition without letting on if they know they're 'different' or 'special'. Each individual is as lovable and affectionate as any other cat; their uncoordination will make anyone smile from how silly their drunken sailor walk looks.

 

To learn more in-depth of exactly what cerebellar hypoplasia is, we can explore the effects, causes, and accommodations for homes with CH cats, and we can also compare CH to Cerebral Palsy. Certainly, newborn kittens are still learning how to walk so they will naturally be unbalanced, but a noticeable symptom of CH is when they are considered ataxic (too wobbly). They might try to make a fluent motion but instead they will make a jerky or exaggerated motion with intention tremors (head bobbles). Usually they will be still when they are relaxed, lying down, or sitting ("Cerebellar Hypoplasia"). Many CH kitties have sight problems due to the underdevelopment of their brains; however it is difficult to assess the severity of their vision impairments because they naturally walk as if they are traveling the opposite direction than they planned to. The condition is non-progressive, meaning it does not worsen and they will adapt to their lack of coordination as they get more practice and develop more muscle mass (Hartwell). Even though the cat will happily adapt to its condition, prevention will still help to avert the condition which will result in less homeless disabled cats.

 

What is the cause of an underdeveloped cerebellum? Pan leukopenia virus (aka feline distemper) or head injuries can either deteriorate the brain cells or damage them enough to have cerebellar hypoplasia. The mother will pass the virus on if she either is infected or receives the vaccination during her pregnancy. The virus specifically attacks cells that are rapidly dividing and kittens don't have the immunity to defeat the virus or defend themselves (Hines). Kittens exposed to the virus in the first through fourth weeks of gestation are usually killed by the deterioration of their cells; in the fourth through fifth weeks they may be stillborn or born with low chances of survival because of the major birth defects; and kittens infected near the end of the pregnancy will either be still born or be affected by cerebellar hypoplasia. However, by vaccinating the female cats before they are pregnant and no sooner than two weeks after giving birth, the kittens will have a lesser risk of infection and therefore a decreased chance of cerebellar hypoplasia. In case the kitten is born with CH, depending on severity, accommodations in their home may be necessary.

 

After an email interview with Debbie Martin, CH cat adoption specialist, I learned certain accommodations that are necessary and some that are optional depending on the level of CH. Houses with CH cats should always be somewhat baby-proofed from sharp corners or long falls where they might fall on or down because of their incoordination. Specifically, a baby gate would be useful to prevent falls down the stairs. Claws are necessary and carpet is helpful so the cat can gain traction without sliding all over the floor. Wider, shallow, and roofed litter boxes are convenient for the cat to climb in and out of so they can lean on the sides. However each cat will be different so it is best to observe the cat the first couple of weeks in their new home to learn their habits and see what adjustments are necessary. Similar to how people with disabilities have accommodations, the cats also have resources to help them get around and ensure their safety.

 

Cerebral palsy and cerebellar hypoplasia share the characterization of a static neurological motor impairment resulting from the underdevelopment or injury of the brain. Symptoms of cerebral palsy include slow motor development (or complete lack thereof), abnormal muscle tone, and unusual posture. Specifically, ataxic cerebral palsy is the human form of CH because of similarities in their wide-stance style of walking, intention tremors, balance/coordination impairments, and by being non-progressive. In society, we accommodate disabled humans - not kill them; the goal of the resources for special needs is to increase functionality, capabilities, and sustain health in movement, social interaction, cognition, and independence (Krigger).There are resources specifically for humans with disabilities just as there are rescue shelters and organizations specifically for special-needs animals.

Similar to raising awareness for various medical issues in people, by educating people and the animal medical community, society will have a better understanding of special-needs cats. Awareness of cerebellar hypoplasia has taken off in the past couple of years and it will continue to broaden itself worldwide. Owners are blogging about the lives of their CH kitties, organizations are creating communities of CH cats and their owners, and word-by-mouth is spreading across the world in support of cerebellar hypoplasia. Nowadays there are between 20 and 50 new CH parents across the US adopting CH kitties because of the new exposure through internet, adoption events, and rescue meet and greets (Martin). Cerebellar hypoplasia should not and can no longer stand as a death sentence. Take advantage of the resources at hand to save the lives of the cats; instead of euthanasia, take the cat to a rescue shelter where they would be more than willing to take in these cats and find them loving homes where they can happily live until it is their natural time to cross the rainbow bridge.

A few resources that will help find a home for any ill, sick, or special needs cat are listed below:

  • Harbor Hope Cat Rescue: Gig Harbor, WA @ (253) 858-6205 
  • Meow Cat Rescue: Kirkland, WA @ (425) 822-6369 
  • Debbie Martin, Adoption Specialist @ CHKittyClub.com

 

Works Cited

"Cerebellar Hypoplasia." Marvista Animal Medical Center. Publishing Professionals, 10 Jan 2010.  

 

Web. 25 Oct 2011. <http://marvistavet.com/html/body_cerebellar_hypoplasia.html>.

 

Grzimek, Bernhard. "Dogs and Cats." Grzimek's Animal Life Encyclopedia. 2nd. 14. Detroit: Thomson Gale, 2004. Print.

 

Hartwell, Sarah. "Spastic Cats (Cerebellar Hypoplasia [CH], Cerebral Palsy, etc.)." Messy Beast. Messy Beast Resource Archive, 2003. Web. 25 Oct 2011. <http://www.starlightrescue.com/whiteBoyz/CH.htm>.

 

Hines, Ronald. "Panleukopenia Of Cats - What You Should Know About It." All Creature Care. 2ndchance.info/Ronald Hines, 2011. Web. 25 Oct 2011. <http://www.2ndchance.info/panleukopenia.htm>.

 

Krigger, Karen W. "Cerebral Palsy: An Overview." American Family Physician 73.1 (n.d.): ProQuest: Research Library (SRU). EBSCO. Web. 22 Oct. 2011.

 

Martin, Debbie. E-mail Interview. 20 Oct 2011.

  




The World According to Riley Dean:
'Tis the Season!


By Riley Dean (with a little help from Mommy)


Hello there! Riley Dean here, ready to talk about one of my favorite times of year: the holidays!
I love giving and getting gifts - especially getting! Heh heh! I'm usually pretty happy with a toy
mouse or a bag of treats in my stocking, but if you're looking for the perfect present for the CH kitty (or CH kitty parent) in your life, hopefully these suggestions will help. This is Riley Dean's Guide to Great Gifts for Cats and Cat Lovers!


Curl Up With a Good Book: My mommy found a book the other day called Crafting With Cat
Hair by Kaori Tsutaya and Amy Hirschman. I thought it was a joke, but Mommy looked it over,
and it's the real thing! It tells you how to make finger puppets, cards and even mini-portraits
with the hair out of your cat's brush. Weird, right? Still, she got copies for both of her sisters, who have long-haired kitties and ALWAYS complain about cat hair all over the house. So if you want to try to do something useful with a material that many kitty parents have plenty of (sometimes TOO much!), this is the book for you! Other cat books my mommy suggests are Cat Massage by MaryJean Ballner and 277 Secrets Your Cat Wants You to Know: A Cat-alog of Unusual and Useful Information by Paulette Cooper and Paul Noble. You can order all of these books at bookstores or online.


Expressionist Yourself!: If your CH kitty has a brilliant artist inside just waiting to get free,
and you would like to brag to all of your friends and family about our creative sides, there is the
Kitty-Casso Art Kit by Art-Casso. The Kitty-Casso Art Kit allows your kitty to paint! I did one not too long ago. My mommy chose my colors for me, and best of all, the paper and paints go into a plastic shield before I ever touch them. No mess! I like that (and so does my mommy)!

The kit comes with five different colors of non-toxic acrylic paint, three sheets of canvas art paper, three paint shields, one picture frame (to display your kitty's brilliance) and one "surprise" cat toy - just in case we need a little extra encouragement to get on the canvas and create a masterpiece. It costs $19.99 on the Art-Casso website.



Strike a Pose: You know what many CH kitty parents love? Pictures of their fur-babies, of course! How about booking a session with a pet photographer? Many pet photographers have
reasonable rates (usually $80-$200 depending on the place), and some even have studios where
you can bring your CH-er in for a safe and fun photo shoot. Catster offers a search feature for pet photographers in your area. You just need to go to "Cats 101" and check out "Catster Local."  Check out Catster's site to find a pet photographer near you! 

If you don't have the budget for a professional sitting, you can always take a great picture with
your own camera and then turn it into a great gift at websites like Kodak.com, CafePress.com,
or Shutterfly.com. They have mugs, shirts, and even canvasses that they can print on to make
one special (and good-looking, of course) CH kitty-adorned present. 


...And Speaking of a Great Gift that Lasts All Year: The CH Kitty Club website is selling calendars to help pay for maintenance of the site! Imagine seeing your kitty's beautiful face of
his or her very own calendar! You can choose your own pictures and background color. It's only
$9.95. This would make a great gift for family, friends, or even yourself (to hang at work or at
your computer desk)! Check out the website for details.

calender
 

Donate to a Good Cause: When you think about it, we CH kitties are really the lucky ones. We
have homes, all the food and toys we could ever want, and - best of all - the love of CH kitty
mommy and daddies like you! It is the cats and dogs who don't have forever homes who could
use a little of that love. So why not donate to a cat or dog charity in the name of your special
fur-baby? The Humane Society of the United States, the ASPCA and Best Friends Animal
Society are all great charities that do a lot for animals without permanent homes. You can also
donate money, toys, food and time to your local shelter or rescue!


Happy Holidays to you and your families, everybody!



The Story of Weeble

by Jillian Riley

Here is the story of Weeble, my first cat with cerebellar hypoplasia. My sister Deanna who
worked at the Camden county animal shelter informed me that there was this adorable orange tabby who needed a home. She stated that there was a couple before me who were interested in Weeble until they saw how he walked. I immediately went straight to the shelter, and the moment I saw him, I knew we were going to be the best of friends. When Weeble arrived at my house, he immediately went for the boxes lying around the house. I was a little worried since I have hard wood floors at my house, but he got around very well. That night, I was in tears because I just had to put down my other cat Midnight.

Weeble came up straight to my bed and put his paw to my eyes and started patting them. It was the weirdest thing, but at the same time I knew we connected.


Now that he is going to be 3 years old in January, I have found so many ways we have connected
over the past the years. In the morning, Weeble has a certain routine of waking me up at four in the morning by chewing on my hair. After that, I get up and take him to the food bowl where he has wet food. I made sure to get him a rubber bowl because the plastic/glass bowls hurt his teeth and breaks.



I also got him a water fountain because he loves to play with the water and it is easier for him to drink out of. Around ten in the morning, I sit Weeble on my lap as I eat breakfast before I go off to graduate school. We watch the birds together and I sit there and wonder if he knows he has a disability because he has a sister, Nala, who is perfectly fine and watches over him like a mother. I put on the video "cat sitter" while I am at school so he has some noise to listen to (and he goes wild over it!).

When I come home from school, Weeble is at the door waiting for me. I immediately pick him up and give him a hug and kiss every time. As I start my homework, Weeble is right on my lap trying to
play with the keyboard as I type out my notes. If he starts to get stressed from any noise around him or too much stimulation, he will let me know by sighing (it's the cutest thing I have ever heard). Once dinner comes, Weeble will lay right next to me as I cook by the stove (sometimes he will even sit in my arm and watch the food cook in the pan). Then, I pull a chair up for him and he sits at the table with my fianc� and I while we eat (he loves to be where ever we are at all times). At night time, Weeble and I will play with his red tent, fuzzy mice, and feathers (not only is this a lot of fun for him but it is a de-stressor for me after a long day at school). As my fianc� and I put a movie on in the bedroom, Weeble tries to jump straight up onto the bed and lies right between the both of us (expecting cat sitter to be on TV).

 

Weeble has been an inspiration not only for me but my family as well. My father, who has been having difficulty walking and having problems with his back, is very protective of Weeble because when he sees the way Weeble walks, he gets inspired to keep going himself. My mother, who loves to call Weeble her grandson, has a straight leg because of a terrible car accident we were in when I was younger. She loves to babysit Weeble all the time and is also very protective of him because she is a true cat lover and never
wants to see him hurt. She is the one who called him Weeble because she stated, "he might fall down but he gets right back up and keeps going!" I never saw my mother attached to a cat like Weeble. He keeps us all going and I do know that from Weeble, we will always adopt cats with special needs because I have learned they are the most loveable cats who need a home too! I hope that one day Cerebellum Hypoplasia is widely recognized among cat owners. They need to understand that these cats just need extra love and care and that they can live a long and healthy life as well as any other animal.



Coco... My First Encounter With a CH Kitty and How She Has Changed My Life

 

 


by Laurel Wiley-Strack

 

I went into an animal welfare society to adopt some kittens and picked two with my stepson.  I noticed another little black kitten in the cage with them and decided to give her a pet on the head, and she wobbled and fell. I asked what was wrong with her as they were taking the other two out to put in a box to take home.


They proceeded to tell me that she was a CH kitten. Her mother was given distemper vaccine while pregnant. As I walked out with the original two kittens to my car an overwhelming instinct came over me. I am disabled. I have had cancer and two heart surgeries, but I get by.  I have a wonderful husband and stepchildren and a beautiful home.  I am grateful!   I proceeded to go to my car put my sweet little kitties in the car and went back in and said I will take her too. I picked her up and she just knew her mama had arrived. She wrapped herself around my neck like a mink stole! Purred and purred the whole way home.



This cat has changed my and my family's life. It has shown us how animals don't know they are handicapped. They just keep going!  She has a few problems with litter box but goes on puppy pads.


She is like a stuffed animal that hugs back. She holds on so tight and is pure love. My other two kittens take care of her by burying her poop and cleaning her. She is just a love and goes places with me tucked in my jacket.  She makes everyone smile.  That is her job on earth.   We even took her to a cerebral palsey charity and she was a hit with the kids!


These cats are special!

 


I am often told that I was so nice to take her in and I reply I'm the one who is lucky.  She has changed my life and is pure love and a teacher about overcoming adversity.


Thank you Coco for coming into my life.


Laurel Wiley is an actress musician and has had roles as Al Pacino's wife and Tom Cruise's doctor. She has an album produced by Nancy Wilson of Heart

 

How I First 

Learned About CH Kitties  

      

by Patty  LaQuay

 

I've always had animals in my life growing up. It wasn't until I got my own cat as an adult however, that I realized my passion & that passion is CATS!! I quickly bonded with other people who also had cats and of course we love to share our photos and stories about our babies. But aside from friends who had cats, normal cats by the way, I really didn't learn about all the different things there are to know about cats until I took a trip to volunteer at Best Friends Animal Society in 2009. Boy were my eyes opened...........along with my heart.

  

 

 

There are several animal areas one can volunteer in at Best Friends. There are horses, pigs, birds, bunnies, dogs, cats.....Well of course I wanted to work with the cats in Cat World. What else was there!?!? I volunteered my first day in the Kitty Motel building and my life was changed forever that day. The first cats I was greeted by were Scooter, who had no back legs, Pokey, who had paralyzed back legs and Thumper, who also had paralyzed back legs. Then there was Mouse, a severe CH kitty that was lying in a bed, just as content as can be looking around as her head bobbled. Most people would find these types of cats disturbing.....but I am just the opposite. My heart opened up. I had never met cats with disabilities like these but they were just as beautiful and perfect to me as any other cat. In fact, maybe even a tad more special.

 

 

 

I jumped at the opportunity to feed Mouse shortly after arriving. Her head really, really shakes when she goes to eat so the caregivers found she did better if someone would gently put their hand on her head to sort of guide her or lessen the shaking. I was just in awe of her and all these special kitties. And the really awesome news was that she was being adopted.

 

Since that trip, I have been back to volunteer at Best Friends several times and I always make sure to spend some time with the CH kitties. They are extra special kitties & are guaranteed to bless your life: I know, my life has been blessed.

Meet The Parents....
Sarah and Sierra!


By Kristie (Riley Dean's Mommy)


It was just a few months ago that Sarah H. from St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada first heard of
CH: "I received a message on my Facebook page from someone I know asking me if I wanted a
special needs kitty. My first questions were, is the cat fixed, and what is the special need? No,
the cat wasn't fixed (not old enough) and the special need was Cerebellar Hypoplasia. Off I went on a mission to find funding assistance to get her spayed, and find out everything I could about CH. I spent about a week reading dozens of web sites, watching videos on YouTube, reading
forums. I wanted to know exactly what I was getting into. The more I read, the more touched I was, and the more I wanted to love one of those cats."


And so she took Sierra, a light brown tabby with tiger stripes, home with her. Sarah and Sierra
live with Sarah's two guinea pigs, Nibbles and Reese, who are both male. "Reese looks like
peanut butter and chocolate so he's named after the peanut butter cup," Sarah says. She also has a mixed tortoise shell Holland lop bunny named Milo. Sierra is Sarah's only fur-baby with special
needs. "The bunny is more work than she is, and he has no special needs, he's just him."


Sierra, who is now about five months old, "has slight head tremors sometimes when sitting still
or being held but not always. She is able to lay down and not have any tremors at all, but you
really notice the CH when she moves. She has intention tremors where her head really bobs
around when she focuses on something...When she walks, she walks in a zig zag pattern. She
sways quite a lot side to side and wobbles. She walks with her back legs in a wide stance. She
sits this way too...Her front paws have more control than her back ones. She often tries to run, but she can't, so her back end flies up in the air and she somersaults herself."


She also requires some assistance with eating. Sarah puts "a place mat under her dish, because it never all stays in the dish. She sits with her legs in the wide stance, and her head pecks at it like a bird." Sarah uses a spoon to bring the food off the sides of the dish and into the center to make it easier for her to eat it. "I have her try eating by herself first, and when she tires out she'll flop over and look at me. At which point I stand her back up, and I hold her up while she finishes.

When her body tires of this, I lift her from the ground to relieve her muscles, then scoop up little bites with a baby spoon, and she eats it off that. Sometimes I have to feed her the whole meal like this, other days only a bite or two." However, Sierra is able to drink by herself.


Although Sierra may need a little extra help here and there, Sarah is quick to point out that her
little girl, "manages to move very, very fast when she wants to. She is learning to 'pounce' stuff,
and is learning to go after things faster than a bullet." Otherwise sweet Sierra has a "psycho
hour" every night: "I call it 'naked time' but you may or may not want to say that in your article"

Sarah laughs. "She just starts attacking random things. A loose thread on the rug was the enemy
one night. Another time it was a shoe. One time it was her blanket. She even attacks the print
on my bed sheets. I have videos to prove it."


Sarah volunteers at the Lincoln County Humane Society as a cat socializer. She also socializes
small animals and is the photographer for their Facebook page. "I put up cute little descriptions
and announce their adoptions," Sarah says. "It's a great place to volunteer." Although she is
a relatively new CH kitty parent, she has some pretty great advice for people who have just
adopted a CH kitty or are considering it:


* Do your research, so you understand what your kitty is going through, and also what you can expect. Remember that things are going to happen that wouldn't happen with a regular cat, and you are in for a little bit of extra work. You need to be prepared for everything.


* Don't lose your patience - your cat can't help a lot of things. If you get frustrated, chances are they are just as frustrated as you are.


* CH kitties are not injured, or in pain. They do not know anything is even wrong with them. Laugh at them like you would a normal cat when they do something funny. Play with them, get them going, hug them, everything you would do with a cat that doesn't have CH. What you will get in return is a happy, loving cat.


* Praise even the tiniest of achievements, so your cat can feel good about themselves and be that much more motivated for the next goal. Be inspired by them!


It sounds to me like she's a natural.  




11 Reasons It's Wonderful to Have a CH Cat

CG & Ellie 

Amanda Woodhead


Since the weeks around Thanksgiving and Christmas are always a time for reflection and appreciation, I thought it would be a great idea to look back at why and how cerebellar hypoplasia cats have impacted our lives. Here's a look at 11 reasons why it's wonderful to have a CH cat:

Cassie

1. Other than making your cat wobbly, cerebellar hypoplasia won't negatively impact your cat's life as it is a non-progressive, painless condition, which means your cat will live as full and healthy a life as any other.

Grumpy

2. Most CH cats can't jump that well, so the chance that they'll get onto your counter tops or on your dining room table is practically nonexistent. (Unless you have climbable chairs near by!)
Flip


3. You always know where your cats are, thanks to their noisy footsteps, flip-flops and tumbles.

Hippa & Nanako


4. Many CH cats will never realize that they're any different from "normal" cats, so there's no reason to feel sorry for them. They live their lives just as passionately as other cats.

CJ

5. As some CH cats grow up, their CH improves thanks to muscle development, improved coordination and possibly some neurological re-wiring. This means you get to see them progress on a daily basis.
Dempsey


6. Giving a home to a needy cat is always rewarding, but it's an extra special feeling when you can give a home to a less-adoptable cat, like one with CH.

Effie

7. The extra time and attention you'll give these cats will develop a tight and special bond between you two.

Ivan

8. Adopting a CH cat automatically makes you a spokesperson for the condition. It doesn't matter if you tell the world or just your neighbor -- every little bit helps to show that CH cats make wonderful pets.

Jewel

9. These kitties are constantly overcoming life's obstacles because of their condition, but they never seem to mind. They're a daily inspiration for all of us.

Baby Kewpie


10. If you consider yourself a cat person, or someone who has a good deal of love to give, why not give it to a cat who may need it most? These cats need more time, patience, attention, and help than normal cats, and it can be a rewarding experience for those ready for it.
Lilly Grace



11. There's just something about them! Most owners agree their CH cats are some of the sweetest you'll ever meet, so why not give it a shot?

The Mighty Martha


Hope you all have a safe and wonderful holiday season with your furr-families!


Birthday Blurbs!



Kewpie!  December 19, 2009

by Leslee Womack

Kewpie will be 2 years old on December 19th! He is the one of the sweetest cats ever! When I pick him up he says "momma". He has a quirky attitude, with the CH temper, so don't ever cross him.  As long as you (or the kitties) do what he wants, everything will be all purrs. He also is my little pack-rat. I can't set anything on the end table that is small enough for him to pick up, because it will be gone in a flash. I have lost, Chapstick, keys, pens, camera cords, laser lights & a ton of other stuff. I can't help but laugh when I catch him in action, because he's just so darn adorable bobbing his head while running off with something in his mouth! 
Anyway... HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO KEWPIE, FROM MOM, DAD!!!

Kewpie with his brother & best bud, Banderas



The CH Family Dynamics 

 

 

By: Elise Murphy

 

Meet the Jasensky family!

  

Angel

 

Family Statistics:

Humans:  2 - Jennifer & Ron (have been married for 17 years)

Cats:  9 - Lilly Grace (Severe CH/4-5 yrs/F/Black & White DLH), Sam (13 yrs/M/Orange DLH/Asthma), Bean (4-5yrs/F/Tuxedo/Diabetic), Ebony(4 yrs/F/Black w/ 3 white eyelashes/Diabetic), Sweet Potato (10 yrs/M/Orange & White, Diabetic), Fred (10 yrs/M/Grey Tabby/Diabetic), Kiki (>10 yrs/F/Grey & White/Diabetic), Monkey (1 yr/M/DLH Orange), Angel (4 yrs/F/Dilute Calico)

 

Overall interactions:  Peaceful and Content!

The Jasensky cats all live peacefully together, with none needing to be separated. Overall, they are very easygoing cats that know where to go when they need their solitude and who to seek out attention and a play buddy from. Ebony spent a long time in a small cage at a shelter and suffers from anxiety from the experience. Her anxiety caused her to chew her belly raw, but it is now controlled and she's starting to recover. Kiki was rescued from a junkyard in West Virginia and prefers to stay in the living room with Ron and hang out with just a few kitties.  She will eat with all the cats, but enjoys her solitude for the most part.  Fred also likes his solitude and will hang out in the living room or "cat room," where there are a lot of cat trees and places to climb and hide. The cat's room has cat walks installed on the walls, so the cats can go onto three different walls and never hit the ground.  Jennifer and Ron have found that even with a small house, if you add lots of things for climbing and the cats have plenty of space above ground to make their own, they get along much better.  

 

Ebony

 

Lilly Grace has a wonderful setup in the "cat room," which contains her ramp and tunnels that she uses for exercise (LG is a severe CH kitty). Bean and Angel play very well with Lilly Grace.  Since she cannot stand, walk, or chase any of the other cats, they come to her. She has a few condos and carpeted swiss cheese chalets that have holes all over that she can pop in and out of, and Bean and Angel come and play tag with her.  Lilly Grace also likes to bat at Sam's tail - although he may mind a little, he understands her abilities and allows it.  

 

Kiki

 

Most of the Jasensky kitties are special needs. Jennifer works with the Diabetic Cats In Need rescue, so they usually adopt senior, diabetic cats. As this is the case, their furry family member numbers can change quickly. Bean, Ebony, Sweet Potato, and Fred are all diet controlled diabetics in remission. Kiki is diabetic and needs daily insulin and blood sugar monitoring. Sam came from a hoarding situation and has asthma, but he's doing well and has not needed his inhaler in years! Monkey and Angel are the only non-special needs kitties - Monkey was saved from death row and Angel was a foster failure who came to them with her two kittens.

 

Lilly Grace
 

 

BFFs/Siblings:    

Despite the large age difference, Angel and Sam are very good friends. Sam really gets along with all the cats and is a very friendly guy.  Monkey is very energetic and is still "the new cat," so he has not made any close friends yet, but he does sit down with Ebony and Sam on occasion. Sweet Potato, Fred, and Kiki all hang out in the living room together, though sometimes Kiki can be a grumbler when she wants to be alone.

 

Sam

 

CH Kitty Additions:

Adding Lilly Grace to the household didn't seem to effect the other kitties very much. It was Ron and Jennifer who needed to adjust! Despite their extensive special needs experience, she is their only CH kitty and is severe, so, at first, they had no idea what she could or couldn't do.  The cats were all used to new cats coming home, so nothing needed to be done to help ease any tension or introduce any of the cats. Ron and Jennifer needed to learn not to do everything for Lilly Grace and to let her be her beautiful self and do what she could on her own.

 

Sweet Potato
 

 

How they help each other:

Bean will only eat in the same room as Lilly Grace to keep her company. She will even wait while the other cats are eating in the kitchen to make sure she's with LG. Lilly Grace uses the grass outside to relieve herself two to three times per day. Whenever she's taken outside, Sam always comes with to sit next to her and stand guard.  There's really nothing to protect her from since Ron or Jennifer are always with her, but don't tell Sam that! ;) The other cats are all fascinated with Lilly Grace and will move out of her way as she's coming down the hallway.

 

Interesting tidbit:

The Jasensky kitties only eat canned, grain free food because of the diabetic kitties in the household.




.   Spotlight on Lost Paws Animal Rescue in New Jersey

(A CEREBELLAR HYPOLASIA FRIENDLY AND SPECIAL NEEDS RESCUE GROUP)



Lost Paws Animal Rescue
PO Box 128
Pittstown, NJ 08867





We Serve the Following Cities, Towns, and/or Counties: 100 mile radius from Somerset, NJ. Covers NJ, NYC, and parts of NY State, CT, PA.



Cat adoption saves lives. Adopt a cat and you'll have a friend for life!                         

        
 
Some of you may have seen the recent CH kitties listed below for adoption.  In addition to the recent CH kitty on Craigslist, Honey was offered for free and CH kitty Bobby was tossed out into the cold in New Jersey!   Well, Lyn Serino is the angel and rescue behind the rescue of these kitties.  Lyn is a CH Kitty Club member with a love for CH kitties and thankful for her continual support and missions for CH kitties in New Jersey!  Below is a little about her rescue!

Bobby


Who we are:

Like so many of the other rescue groups, Lost Paws is a group made up entirely of volunteers. Many of these volunteers foster the homeless cats awaiting adoption in their homes. We rescue our animals mainly from high kill shelters where they are often on the list awaiting euthanasia to create room in the overburdened shelters. We rescue them from this fate in order to give them a second chance at finding a loving home and enrich the lives of their adopters.

Our Mission Is:

1. To rescue animals from situations that are abusive, endangering and/or neglectful, such as kill shelters where overcrowding leads to euthanasia of wonderful companion animals

2. Increase the quality of life for stray, unwanted and homeless animals by caring for them and seeking suitable homes

3. To inform the public of these situations in order to put a stop to animal abuse and irresponsible breeding

4. To provide foster homes for these animals

5. To provide necessary veterinary care

6. To promote the importance of spaying/neutering and provide same as part of the adoption process

7. To place rescued animals into permanent adoptive homes

Come Meet our Pets
PetSmart , Bridgewater, NJ
Fur Majesty, Clinton, NJ

Our Adoption Process:

The potential pet parent makes an email or phone inquiry.

Lost Paws sends a reply email with more detail on the adoption process, provides fee information, what medical is covered as part of the adoption, and attaches a blank adoption application.

The applicant then returns the completed application.

Lost Paws reviews the application.

If approved, the adopter is notified, an appointment is arranged, and adopter visits to meet and adopt.

The adoption agreement outlining the adopter's responsibilities and requirements is filled out and signed by them before taking their new family member home.


Four CH kitties are up for adoption with  Lyn at Lost Paws Rescue.
 
Weebles

Weebles is 1 yr now. Great with cats and dogs (he thinks his mom is a Cairn Terrier and we call him "her puppy"). He is moderately affected. He has limited jumping ability and can't do steps. He can move pretty well and when he does his version of running he is hard to catch. 
 http://www.petfinder.com/petdetail/17605294


Andy

Andy is about 3 mos now. He was thrown out of a car in Queens, NY. The vet believes his neuro issues are CH and not related to the car incident. In fact, it's thought maybe thats why they did it. He is mildly affected. He is brown tabby and white.
Sadie


Sadie is a black and white tuxedo kitten about 9 weeks old. I believe she is modetately affected but also still pretty young. She is petite. She was left in the parking lot of a Petsmart in a big dog crate with her mom,3 sibs and 2 other cats. The white fur on the cats were stained yellow. They had no fleas, ticks, or mud. We think whomever left them had them inside but not great conditions. 


Bobbie - Bobbie is the kitty whose owner was evicticed in New Jersey, and Bobbie was tossed outside into the cold crying hysterically.  Bobbie is not ready yet for adoption but he is looking for a home!   So please contact Lyn to find out more about Bobbie.  He has been through a lot - poor little guy!

 

 

Also the two that are being rescued from the shelter On Dec. 1st will be for adoption!  One is a five week old CH Kitten and the other is an eight year old female.  Sorry the photos are not attractive as these are photos taken at the shelter but it is all we have until we get them on the 1st of December.

 

Please Contact Lyn via email for more information on their three CH kitties!  





Bye Bye everyone!

 

Have a loverly holiday season, and buy your kitties LOTS of catnip toys!! (or I will come after you!!!)

Oh, hey, lookie at these : ))

 

 

 

Hope you loved this month's newsletter, we love making it happen!!!

 

Ziggy Wigg'n

Little Demon 

A PurrFect Face    

 

Tardy Peebucket

President of Gobblers

[email protected] 

www.TardyPeebucket.com 

 

Elizabeth Holochwost

Founder of the CH Kitty Club (really)

[email protected] 

 LizzieBarrett.com 

 

Neal Helman

Editor and Best Daddy Cat and Ziggy's best friend 

[email protected] 

www.NealHelman.com  

 

Debbie Martin

Adoption Specialist

[email protected] 

 

   

This month's Wonderful Articles!
CH Kitty of the Month
How I Found My Two CH Kitties
My First Experience with CH Kittens
My First Experience With a CH Kitty
Adoptable Angels
Update on Jadey and Her College Project
The World According to Riley Dean
The Story of Weeble
Coco......My...first encounter with a Ch Kitty
How I First Learned About CH Kitties
Meet The Parents..........Sarah and Sierra!
11 Reasons It's Wonderful to Have a CH Cat
Birthday Blurbs!...Kewpie!
The CH Family Dynamics
SPOTLIGHT ON LOST PAWS ANIMAL RESCUE
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