When Schuster the kitten came to Tails High rescue he weighed only half of what he should have weighed at his age. The rescue was run entirely by volunteers. During the next few weeks he barely grew at all.
The rescue decided to move him to the home of Ryen who had lots of experience fostering kittens. Ryen explained to Love Meow that Schuster always seemed happy and had lots of energy but she could tell right away that something was wrong with him. Schuster refused to let his small size hold him back or affect his happy personality in any way.
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He is an incredibly sweet kitten who loves to be close to people. His favorite activities include cuddling up next to you and being held in your arms. He also enjoys showing affection by giving gentle kisses to anyone who spends time with him.
The team worked with veterinarians and found out that Schuster was born with hypothyroidism. Tails High explained that this is a rare condition in kittens. The thyroid gland does not make enough hormone to control metabolism. This can cause slower growth & lower energy levels. Sometimes it makes kittens look like they will stay small forever.
At three & a half months old Schuster was only as big as an eight-week-old kitten. Despite his small size he did not let it hold him back. With proper medication these kittens can grow healthy and live complete happy lives. When Schuster started his treatment he received support from other foster kittens. Simon Says was an orange tabby who could not use his back legs. He quickly became a friend and mentor to Schuster.
When Penguin arrived as the newest black-and-white kitten in the household Simon and Schuster rushed to welcome her at her enclosure. Penguin showed some initial hesitation but quickly grew comfortable around her self-assured companions. Although Schuster & Simon lack the height to access the kitchen counters Penguin willingly takes on this role by climbing up to push the treat container onto the floor so all three cats can share the snacks together.
Schuster is finally growing and catching up in weight. His energy and playfulness have multiplied too. Ryen said he has always had a zest for life and loves cuddling with her and his foster siblings. He may be the smallest of the trio but what he lacks in size he more than makes up for in personality and mischief.
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Schuster runs around the house with his foster siblings and they are always looking for something fun to do. They make the home lively with their constant activities and the sound of their little paws moving everywhere. Schuster shows that even though he is small he has a big personality.Simon and Schuster provided support that helped Penguin develop confidence when interacting with people.
The three kittens have built a wonderful bond & care deeply for one another. Schuster required some additional time to grow before he could have his neutering procedure. After returning from the veterinary clinic Simon welcomed him back with soft sniffing and comforting purring sounds. Before long all three kittens were lying together in their soft bed feeling happy and comfortable.
Schuster refuses to let obstacles prevent him from enjoying life completely. He takes his medication without complaint and greets every day with energy while putting in maximum effort to develop & gain strength. “He demonstrates that when you have dedicated foster caregivers & skilled veterinarians combined with plenty of affection solutions become clear. Perhaps staying close to the ground actually helps when facing challenges head-on.”
The kittens started from separate places but now they have a second chance to grow together and prepare for what comes next in their lives. They keep each other happy & make everyone around them feel warm inside when they meet them.
Share this story with your friends. You can find more information about the trio who are looking for homes and learn about Tails High in the DC area by visiting their Instagram account at @tailshigh and their Facebook page. Special thanks go to Ryen at @mintwood.fosters.
