Despite facing challenges such as a hole in her heart and impaired vision, the Kitten persevered and wandered the streets alone for weeks. Despite all odds, this courageous kitty remained determined in her will to persevere no matter what obstacles came her way!
The story began when a woman found a small black and white kitten in her driveway. The kitten, missing an eye and possibly facing other challenges, approached her meowing for assistance. Without hesitation, she reached out to the Liberation Cat House in Orlando for help. Ashley, a passionate foster mom and director at the organization, welcomed Bug into her care, instantly captivated by Bug’s special charm.
In the same way, Bug quickly developed a fondness for Ashley and adapted swiftly to her new environment.
“Bugs is always full of energy and constantly on the move,” Ashley exclaimed to We Love Cats and Kittens. “Despite her small size, she has a bold personality and is always eager to explore.”
After visiting the vet, it was revealed that Bug was born with various health conditions affecting her heart, vision, and respiratory system. Some of these conditions included having only one nostril, a cleft hip, and an underdeveloped eye with a cataract in its early stages. Additionally, Bug’s other eye had not fully developed, and she was unable to open the eyelid on that side.
However, Bug’s health struggles didn’t stop there. She was also diagnosed with another congenital condition – a restrictive ventricular septal defect. As Ashley explains, “There is a gap in the heart wall that divides the left and right ventricles. This results in blood being redirected from the left side to the right, which is not typical.”
The veterinarians provided the best care they could for her, but unfortunately, they couldn’t do anything to completely treat her main eye and heart issues. Currently, the cardiologist hasn’t prescribed any medications, but there may be a need for them in the future. Bug, however, remains blissfully unaware of her health challenges and continues to live life to the fullest without letting her condition hold her back.
It is truly remarkable how she has been able to survive life on the streets for so long. Despite the challenges, Bug’s resilience shines through and she never loses her positive attitude!
It’s unclear exactly how much she can see, but there’s no denying that she’s a force to be reckoned with when it comes to playing with cat toys, scaling cat trees, or hunting down imaginary insects! Ashley explains, “She has a blast chasing after toys, and she’ll even go after random objects that catch her eye. I remember one time she snatched a piece of paper off my desk and had a grand old time playing with it.”
Despite facing challenges with limited vision, she is incredibly resourceful and agile, using climbing, jumping, and running to navigate herself almost anywhere she needs to go. While she initially struggled with bumping into things, she has since become more familiar with her surroundings, significantly reducing these instances.
Ashley admires Bug’s unique quality of being unawares of any limitations. Bug was born that way, so to her, the life she lives is simply her normalcy.
Based on Ashley’s perspective, Bug is relentless and is determined to seize the most out of her life. Despite her heart condition potentially shortening her lifespan, Ashley believes Bug will lead a fulfilling life, regardless of its duration.
This adorable and courageous little kitten captured the hearts of everyone she met with her lively personality. In no time, Bug was able to find a permanent home with her soon-to-be forever human in Pittsburgh. They have experience caring for special needs animals and are dedicated to ensuring Bug receives top-notch care.
In Pittsburgh, there’s a veterinary cardiology practice that is closely monitoring Bug’s heart. Bug is fortunate to have many furry siblings, including a playful 6-month-old kitten who has quickly become Bug’s new playmate!
Bug may have a heart defect, but her heart is still full of love and ready to enjoy everything life has to offer. Watch the video to see Bug in all her energetic and joyful glory!
