
Credit: treehouseanimals.org

The story of Stockings could have easily turned into a sad tale of yet another animal that the world would have given up on. This little kitten was rescued when it was just a few weeks old from a hording house. Rescuers were shocked when they found him. Stockings was born with a severe birth defect that would have likely cost him his life if not for the care of loving individuals. When he was born, he was unable to walk because a defect to his hind legs. His legs were extended backwards as if his feet had been put on the wrong way; additionally his legs were turned inward so that they made a 'W'. However, this disability did not seem to faze Stockings, he scooted around as if it were the most normal thing in the world.

Credit: treehouseanimals.org

When Stockings was rescued, instead of sending him to a shelter where he surely would have been euthanized as a "kindness," a rescuer brought him to the Tree House Humane Society where they believe every animal deserves a chance and proper care. The helpful volunteers at Tree House immediately fell in love with the kitten. Though he could not stand, Stockings had the most alluring stare. When looking up at people with his big blue eyes, he just drew them in as well as quickly earned their love. Stockings amazingly had not developed any sores on his hocks from scooting around at his previous home yet, however when he was brought in he was malnourish and had an upper respiratory infection.

Credit: http://www.treehouseanimals.org

As Stockings cold was treated, he began to slowly put on weight. As everyone at Tree House was completely enamoured by the kitten, they comprised a daring plan to rehabilitate him. Veterinarian Dr. Lynda Ewald proposed a surgical procedure in which Stockings would have his tendons cut, allowing for his legs to be straightened and turned the right way. His legs would then be fused in the proper position and put in a splint so they could heal. With any luck, Tree House hoped that they could make Stockings walk and give him a real shot at life.

Credit: treehouseanimals.org

After the surgery on his first leg, Stockings had some discomfort, but was reacting well enough for the veterinarians to perform surgery on the other leg. Stockings was placed into foster care with a veterinary technician so that he could receive 24-hour care by an expert in a less stressful home setting. His left leg responded well to the surgery, but his right leg required two more surgeries. However, after all was said and done, Stockings surgery scars healed well and he is now as energetic and active as any cat can be. His steps continue to be wobbly as he gets used to his newly fixed legs, but he already shows no fear leaping about like a normal cat or chasing about the two dogs he lives with in his foster home. Though Stockings will never have the mobility of a regular cat, his story of hope, tenacity and rehabilitation are inspiring to animal lovers everywhere.

Thanks to Tree House Animals for all your amazing work!

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Watch the Video on Stockings the Kitten