Computer tomography and 3D modelling were used to manufacture the most comfortable and suitable artificial limbs. Picture: Vesti Rossiya

Ryzhik (meaning Redhead or Ginger) was found with all paws so badly frostbitten and with gangrene developing so fast, that there was no other option but amputation.

Not long ago this was a common cause of pets being put down in the harsh winters.

Luckily Ryzhik got himself a new owner who had other plans.

The cat was taken to a clinic in Novosibirsk, which specialises in implanting artificial limbs.

Computer tomography and 3D modelling were used to manufacture the most comfortable and suitable artificial limbs for the cat.



Computer tomography and 3D modelling were used to manufacture the most comfortable and suitable artificial limbs. Picture: Vesti Rossiya

Now Ryzhik is believed to be the only cat in Russia with four functioning artificial paws.

Indeed surgeon Sergey Gorshkov said: ‘He is definitely the first cat in the world who experienced such surgeries.

‘The limbs have fully connected with the skin and bone. The part of the limb that goes inside the body is spongy, the bone tissue grows inside it.

‘We achieved a good result.

‘We have secured the function of the limb, although part of it has been removed.’



Computer tomography and 3D modelling were used to manufacture the most comfortable and suitable artificial limbs. Picture: Vesti Rossiya

The cat is not trying to remove the limbs suggesting he is content with his new mobility.

As the video shows, he is not yet fully confident but it is early days and the specialists say he will find walking easier in future.

Gorshkov’s clinic is pioneering new methods of helping animals in trouble.

Veterinarians are to patent their technique for attaching artificial limbs to birds.

The clinic is working at rebuilding beaks for parrots, and hoods for cattle.