'Gorgeous' kittens born with rare genetic condition saved by amazing Harrogate Cat Rescue
Two gorgeous little kittens born with a rare genetic condition have been given new hope for the future thanks to an incredible Harrogate charity.
Harrogate Cat Rescue was founded in 2020 by Celia Dakin to save abandoned cats and kittens throughout the Harrogate district.
Such is her dedication, during its first four years, the charity successfully rehomed over 800 cats, operating primarily on donations and a foster-based network.
Recently, the rescue centre, located at Nydd Vale Terrace in Harrogate, answered an unusual request to care for two lovely kittens when they were just five days old.
Noir and Neve had been born with missing bones in their front legs, Noir in two legs and Neve in one.
Celia then took them to a vet who identified the genetic defect.
The kittens have since undergone intensive treatment with Swift Referrals veterinary service in Wetherby under the care of Veterinary Surgeon Rhys Treharne.
Celia says the two kittens are now are tearing about, doing all the things that kittens enjoy.
But, sadly, this is unlikely to be the end of the story.
"For Neve, because it is only one of her forelegs, even without the splint on, she was already coping really well," Celia said.
She added that Neve was climbing on the sofa, running around and playing, and "with the splint on already the bone is straightening".
"It's probable that Noir will require surgery when he's about six-months -old to try to straighten his legs.
"For Neve it's more of a wait and see time, as in general, she uses both of her legs to run about."
Now aged 11 weeks, the two kittens have both been wearing leg splints but are having a two-week break to see how they get on.
Treating this rare condition does not come cheap.
Harrogate Cat Rescue has already been fundraising to cover the costs through a public appeal.
But more will be required as treatment is expected to be ongoing if the two kittens are to lead normal, healthy lives.
"Noir could have a life as he is, but obviously I want to improve his mobility,” said Celia.
"They're hoping the splints will straighten his legs as well, but over time it might well be that he will require surgery," she said.
For more information or to donate to Noir and Neve’s treatment, visit: https://www.harrogatecatrescue.co.uk