Two kittens found crawling on a gravel road are now getting lots of cuddles and a chance to run and jump.
Salem Friends of Felines
A few months ago, a kind neighbor found two kittens abandoned on a hot gravel road because he couldn’t bear the thought of them bouncing around in traffic.
“The two kittens were brought to Salem Feline Friends (SFOF) for evaluation,” staff at SFOF told Love Meow.
SFOF told Love Meow, “Experienced rescue foster Laura Burmud took them in and provided 24/7 care.” They are doing well in her home until they are old enough to be weaned.”
Jack and Jill were found crawling on a gravel roadSalem Friends of Felines
The kittens, “Jack” and “Jill”, went to several veterinarians who gave them physical therapy, massages and foot splints, but none of these methods worked.
“It was clear that Jack and Jill needed specialized care.
They were born with deformities in their legsSalem Friends of Felines
They decided to take the kittens to Oregon State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine for an orthopedic consultation, which ultimately led to the correct diagnosis.
Jill was born with a severely rotated and displaced left kneecap, which caused the bone to grow incorrectly and the entire leg to be completely turned backward from birth.
Jack and JillSalem Friends of Felines
“This affected her balance and she tried to compensate with her tail. In a relatively short period of time, her spine developed a significant curve, her hips sank, and she was pulling on her back more than she was walking,” shared Gordana Nichols, SFOF’s foster volunteer.
From the beginning, Jill has been well-adjusted and very sweet.
JillSalem Friends of Felines
Jack’s condition is known as hemiplegia. He is missing the radius bone in his left ‘hand’ and the ulna bone in his other hand is crooked. This caused his ‘wrist’ to turn inward. He is unable to walk with his left palm and can only walk with his ‘wrist’.”
Although Jack’s front legs are twisted, he doesn’t let that stop him from having fun.
JackSalem Friends of Felines
Weighing just under three kilograms and about three-and-a-half months old, Jill underwent surgery in order to significantly improve his quality of life.
“The surgery was brutal in order to save the legs of this adorable kitten. Just as we desperately hoped, she made it through the anesthesia,” the SFOF shared his feelings.
Jill adores people and loves to playSalem Friends of Felines
Shortly afterward, Jill was doing much better and even began receiving short-term physical therapy for her leg. She continues to improve every day and amazes those around her with her abilities.
“Only a few weeks after her surgery, Jill was able to use her leg! Considering the severity of her condition and the enormity of the surgery, this is remarkable progress. She really is a little fighter,” said Godana.
Jill, before and after surgerySalem Friends of Felines
While Jill was recovering, Jack was preparing for his life-changing surgery and making friends with the cats in his foster home.” He loves to play with his (feline) friends and has really turned into a happy kitty,” shares Bruna Veselko, SFOF’s foster volunteer.
Jack doesn’t hesitate to ask for human attention and cuddles.
JackSalem Friends of Felines
“Jill is fierce and incredibly brave, and Jack is gentle and a real little gentleman who always seems to be protecting his sister,” she shares her impressions of SFOF.
“Despite their mobility issues, Jack and Jill have been two of the sweetest babies in the nursery. Their determination knows no bounds.
Jill now can hop around and play with his favorite toySalem Friends of Felines
“It’s amazing to see them so full of life and so brave to overcome the limitations imposed by their deformities. They truly deserve the chance to live the best, most comfortable lives possible.
Salem Friends of Felines
Share this story with your friends. If you would like to help Jack and Jill, visit SFOF’s website or Facebook page to see more.
