“Indy Scoots” is just as adorable as his name sounds. He’s a paralyzed kitten who had a rough start, but thanks to a kind adopter and some fellow cats, he’s living his best life.
At only ten weeks old, Indy arrived at a shelter with damage on his back legs. He required more medical attention than the shelter could provide, so they sent out a plea for someone to foster him. With that request, they posted a photo of the heartbroken cat trying to climb out of his kennel.
Second Chances
Michelle Fournier’s heart melted when she saw photos of Indy at St. Frances Society Animal Rescue in Florida. She had never cared for a paralyzed cat before, but she felt compelled to save him.
“I assured my rescue that if (I was) granted the okay to take Indy, no matter if he never walks, and no matter if he will forever need help, that I would personally make sure that he would be cared for,” Fournier said.
After the rescue reviewed Indy’s medical records, they agreed to let Fournier take him home. He had several medical problems at first, including wounds, malnourishment, and digestive issues. Right away, he snuggled up beside Fournier because he knew he was where he belonged.
With the help of medication and care, Indy gained weight and his wounds healed. However, walking was still a struggle. He couldn’t move his back legs, but he learned to scoot around with them dragging behind him. That’s how he got his full name, Indy Scoots.
A New Life for Indy Scoots
The other cats in the house welcomed Indy to their group without hesitation. They often groom him and give him cuddles to help cheer him up. Indy doesn’t let his disability hold him back, so he’ll often wrestle and play with his feline siblings. He has no problem keeping up while scooting, but Fournier helps him strengthen his back legs.
“He still cannot walk but he is getting stronger every day. He needs help going to the bathroom, but he never puts up a fuss,” Fournier said.
Fournier loves sharing Indy’s story because she hopes the kitten will show the world that paralyzed animals can still live happy, fulfilling lives. Even though he can’t fully use his back legs, he has figured out how to climb onto the first level of the cat tree by himself!
If you’d like to see updates on Indy’s life, you can follow him on Instagram!
Featured Image: Instagram