Handsome Fiddler Crab wasn’t born with the best hand (paw). He was born in a home and surrendered to The Feline Connection as a teenage kitten with one tiny leg and a body that didn’t quite work right. What he lacked in physical perfection, he makes up for in spirit and love.
Seeing his potential, his human friends took him in and gave him a chance. We named him Fiddler Crab, a quirky name for a quirky cat. In addition to being a ‘Twisty Cat,’ Fiddler Crab had several internal deformities.
Fiddler Crab had a large umbilical hernia. When the vet started the surgery to repair it, they discovered that his diaphragm (the muscle that helps him breathe) wasn’t fully formed and was also herniated.
A diaphragmatic hernia in cats happens when the diaphragm, the muscle that separates the chest cavity from the abdomen, has a tear or hole. This allows organs from the abdomen, like the stomach or intestines, to move into the chest cavity where the lungs and heart are located, as happened for Fiddler Crab. His heart was positioned on the right side of the chest. If left here, it would put pressure on vessels, and likely cause heart failure over time. This can cause significant breathing problems and other health issues for cats. A new diaphragm was rebuilt.
In addition, the poor guy also had a peritoneal hernia where a part of the intestine and other abdominal organs pushed through a weak spot in the abdominal wall. This can cause pain, digestive issues, and in severe cases, can obstruct the intestine, so that was addressed as well.
With amazing vet care and surgery, everything is in the right place. He now has a great chance at a new life. He faced surgery and recovery with a big, kind heart, a purr, and a twinkle in his eye.
Today, Fiddler Crab is a miracle. He may only have three functional legs, but he moves with determination. He’s a gentle soul, loving to be petted and to give head butts. He gets along with other cats and respectful dogs, a testament to his giving nature.
Now, Fiddler Crab is looking for his forever home. He’s ready to love and be loved, to curl up on a lap, and to chase a toy mouse. He may not be perfect, but he’s perfect to us and for the right someone. He has a listing on Petfinder and you can apply to adopt on the link directly below.
So, if you’re looking for a unique and loving companion, consider Fiddler Crab. He’s more than just a cat; he’s a survivor, a fighter, and a friend. Please Fill out an Adoption Application and put his name on top!
These rescues are only possible through the generosity of The Feline Connection Community. Please consider donating to the Fall Feline Fundraiser 2024 so we can continue to say “yes” when we get requests like this. The Feline Connection is 100% volunteer, and dependent on your donations to make these rescues happen. We can’t do it without you.
