A kitten named Macaroni has many toes. I found a kind person to help me one day run around like other kittens.
kitten macaroniFriends for Life Rescue Network
Jacqueline “Dearmor” Santiago, President Friends for Life Rescue Network, was informed of a small orange tabby dog with abnormal front paws. With her experience working with kittens with special needs, she immediately offered to help.
Macaroni the kitten had polydactyly and had a contracted tendon that made her forelimbs appear “twisted”. He received Jacqueline’s protection on the fourth day of his life, giving him maximum advantage.
Newborn kittens have a “leap” chance of correcting a twisted leg.
“This is often caused by polydactyly (extra toes) or by small mothers who don’t have enough space in the womb to extend their legs,” Jacqueline added. Macaroni has an extra toe on each leg, increasing in size.
“During development, the legs lock in the same position, so they need to be stretched out over several weeks to grow properly.”
Jacqueline began physiotherapy with massage and stretching for Macaroni. The little ball of fur, whose eyes were not yet open, took it all in stride.
He was a big eater and was very brave with every massage session and leg stretching exercise.
By the time his eyes were wide open and his ears were open, Macaroni was ready to step out of his cozy nest and explore, albeit with a shaky gait. He was fearless and curious, trying to paddle around with his big mitten-like front legs.
With daily treatment, over time his forelimbs showed improvement and were less cramped than before.
“This stretch helped prepare for splinting (which shouldn’t start until at least four weeks of age) by lengthening and stretching the tendons and maximized success,” Jacqueline told Love Meow.
Macaroni has developed a good rhythm of multiple treatments per day between feedings during the day. He loves being waited on, he loves being the center of attention.
“His legs are a bit stubborn, so a splint is done for a few days to get him over the threshold and under his feet. prize.”
The macaroni is just trying to put the leg in the correct position.
The tiger boy is becoming more active and playful day by day. He loves being with his foster mother and resident cat Wolfie. His personality is emerging.
“Mac is a big rumbling machine and already loves playing with it. He enjoys flapping his legs and trying to bite with his little teeth. He’s still very snug. His feet are under him. I look forward to starting running once I’m settled in.”
Over the next few weeks, this sweet kitty will enter a noisy kitten phase, making good use of her paws as she navigates the world around her.
With a timely rescue, little Macaroni has made great strides and is ready to conquer the world with her adorable personality.
Please share this story with your friends. Learn more about the Macaroni and Friends for Life Rescue Network here. Instagram @fflrescuenetwork and Facebook. Learn more about Twisted Legs in our Story Highlights @wolfie_smile.
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