In the world of feline companions, we often come across special needs cats, each with their unique story. However, not every one of them is a special needs cat even though it may look so.
Take this adorable feline for an example. When Emily Blythe was volunteering at the Lake County Animal Shelter in Florida, she met a female tabby cat with healed facial injuries.
At that time, the poor cat had just arrived at the rescue center, desperately looking for a forever home. For Emily, it was love at first sight, and she knew she had to take this remarkable cat under her wing. She said:
The shelter staff named the new kitty Petunia, and as days passed, they learned more about her past.
She, along with her kittens, had been rescued by a kind-hearted soul and brought to the shelter.
Initial vet examinations led to the discovery that Petunia’s facial injuries were not due to a birth defect, as they had initially suspected, but rather the result of a horrifying incident. Emily revealed the grim truth:
Sadly, the details about the incident and subsequent treatments remained a mystery. What we do know is that Petunia survived and had a couple of litters of kittens until she and her furry babies were rescued and came into Emily’s hands.
However, that incident damaged her permanently, leaving her with numerous health issues, including breathing issues and facial sensitivity.
When Emily first saw Petunia, she decided to foster her and make her feel loved and comfortable. But, over time, their bond became so strong that they simply couldn’t part.
Eventually, Emily decided to officially adopt Petunia, offering her a loving forever home she so rightfully deserved.
After a year, everything was better than expected. To everyone’s surprise, Petunia didn’t have any major medical challenges. Emily explained why she was so worried:
Besides these potential issues, Petunia was also sensitive around her chin, so her family always avoided petting that part of her face.
Despite her potential issues and unique appearance, Petunia was just like any other cat who visited the vet twice a year preventively, to make sure she was in good health.
While her unique appearance usually led some to misconceptions, Petunia was, in fact, an incredibly affectionate and friendly feline. Emily said:
Besides being a cuddle bug, Petunia loved to relax and take a nap in the coziest place in the room. Emily said:
Emily adopted Petunia, but she never stopped fostering other cats and kittens. However, Petunia didn’t really like adult foster cats coming to her home, but she tolerated young foster kittens.
It was almost as if she understood their need for help, much like she once did. Emily was amazed by her feline friend, saying
Despite her terrible, painful past, and thanks to Emily, Petunia found happiness in life and a family who loved her so much!
Unfortunately, after years of living in a lovely home, she crossed the Rainbow Bridge. She got a serious infection that she just couldn’t fight off. Although that broke Emily’s heart, she was determined never to forget such a great cat. She said
