Phoebe’s joyful demeanor helps to debunk misconceptions regarding special needs animals.
Kitty Kat Haven & Rescue (KKHR) has saved many cats and kittens, but particularly sets itself apart from other rescues by saving even those special cases that other rescues would turn away. One such very special case is Phoebe.
Phoebe was rescued by KKHR from a hoarding situation in 2021 when she was just 10 weeks old. While the other cats and kittens saved that day were fairly typical, Phoebe was unable to walk. A veterinary evaluation determined she had cerebellar hypoplasia (CH), or “Wobbly Cat Syndrome.” CH presents when the mother cat is sick with panleukopenia during pregnancy, and it affects the development of a kitten’s brain. CH causes no pain and doesn’t progress or get worse over time. When a kitten is born with CH, they’ll be wobbly forever — but that doesn’t mean they can’t live happy, healthy lives! Phoebe quickly won the hearts of her foster family and they joyfully adopted her. Since her adoption, Phoebe has gone on to inspire and bring joy to hundreds of thousands of people across the world through her social media presence (Phoebe the CH Kitty).
More importantly, through Phoebe’s impact, KKHR has been able to successfully rescue, rehabilitate and adopt other special needs and CH kitties into loving homes. Phoebe’s joyful demeanor helps to debunk misconceptions regarding special needs animals. Phoebe and her foster family serve as ambassadors to educate and reassure prospective families that there is a place for special needs cats and kittens. In the short time since Phoebe’s rescue, KKHR has rescued and adopted out over 20 cats with CH or similar conditions. With the knowledge we have gained from Phoebe’s time with us, KKHR does not hesitate to accept cats and kittens with special needs.
Because KKHR saved the life of one special needs kitten, Phoebe was given the chance to demonstrate what an incredible, meaningful, and happy life is possible.
Ready to make an impact?
Foster: Fostering a kitten, teenager, or adult cat can be one of the most rewarding things you ever do.
Volunteer: Lend a helping hand at a local shelter or rescue organization.
Adopt: Open your heart and home to a furry friend in need.