Two disabled cats look to the future in their new home.

Two cat siblings in the care of Cats Protection’s Forth Valley Adoption Centre in Scotland have found someone who can see past their disabilities and offer them lots of love. 

Kathe and Keller both have mild cerebellar hypoplasia, a condition in which the brain does not develop properly, affecting balance and coordination and making them wobble when they walk. Keller is also deaf, but this does not hold him back, and he loves to play with his sister. 

Thankfully none of these defects put off Elaine Baxter from Clackmannanshire, who was looking to fill the gap left by the death of her beloved 16-year-old cat Vinnie. Elaine was already used to dealing with cats with special needs, as Vinnie had diabetes for eight years.

“I was looking for an indoor companion when I looked at the Cats Protection website and saw Kathe,” said Elaine. “The fact that her brother came too was not a problem, and their additional needs just made them more in need of a loving home. 

“They are totally at home now. Their quirks just make them more lovable. I hope they feel the same about me!”

Forth Valley Centre Manager Roslyn McKay said: “We are delighted Kathe and Keller have settled in so well to their new home. They are real characters and firm favourites with the team.

“Disabled cats really shouldn’t put off experienced owners. They may require a little extra care or consideration but they have plenty of love to give. Cats are surprisingly adaptable and often more than capable of coping with physical impairments, allowing them to enjoy long and happy lives.

“Cats Protection would always fully brief prospective owners of disabled cats, ensuring they felt confident to care for their special needs pet.”

Disabled cats have been given their own category for this year’s virtual Alternative Cat Awards, a virtual celebration of how cats have played such a vital role to people during lockdown. 

If you have a #PurrfectlyImperfect cat who enjoys a happy, healthy life with a disability, health issue or superficial aesthetic deformity, share a video of them on Twitter or Instagram using #AlternativeCatAwards before 21 August. The winning videos will be chosen by our celebrity judges and receive a bumper pack of Cats Protection goodies worth £100!

For more details about the Alternative Cat Awards visit https://www.cats.org.uk/nca

For lots of help and advice on caring for disabled cats visit https://www.cats.org.uk/help-and-advice/health/disabled-cats