Danica Seitz

Cappy and Rosanne.

There are many opinions on disabled cats and their quality of life. Some people say that if a cat is disabled, they won’t live a full happy life, whereas others say they can. I believe if a cat isn’t in pain or suffering and can still do daily functions whether it’s by themselves or with help of medication, a wheelchair, or reasonable human assistance, they can live full, happy lives.

One of these cats resides in The Poppy Foundation. Cliffy is a silly goofy orange cat.

“He’s over 10 years old. He has a disability but he doesn’t know it,” Rosanne, a volunteer at The Poppy Foundation, says.

Cliffy has lived with The Poppy Foundation ever since he was a kitten, and he has mobility issues: his back legs don’t work. Even so, Cliffy lives his life as if he has no disability. He even gets to tag along on walks. Rosanne will wrap him in a blanket and go walk around outside. 

If you plan on adopting a disabled cat there are some things to consider beforehand:

• You will most likely be going to the vet more often and it may be a good idea to put some money to the side to pay the bills.
• Ramps or mobility devices may be needed.
• Time, disabled cats require a lot of your time and care some need help using the bathroom
• Specialized foods and modified feeding methods might be necessary. You might need to help them eat or just monitor to make sure everything’s good.

If you want to learn more or just see how some of these disabled kitties live check out:

• dr.mattmcglasson on Instagram
• wobblygeordi on Instagram
• hank_the_deaf_and_blind_cat on Instagram
• Or even just talk to a vet or cat shelter and they will give you lots more information.

Gallery • 5 Photos

Danica Seitz

Cappy’s back legs don’t work.