When a human has a chronic illness or disorder, we have many systems, treatments, and options for ensuring they can live a life as autonomous and self-sufficient as possible, but the same can’t be said for animals.
Often, animals with special needs don’t find the help or homes they need. Even humans who take them in can’t always really understand what the pet is going through.
But a cat named Reed found himself the perfect home with the perfect human.
Both Reed and his new mom, Abby McElroy, have Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) , which is a group of connective tissue disorders.
Often, this manifests as issues with joints, such as easy dislocation or chronic pain, or skin that is fragile and/or abnormally stretchy.
Abby was diagnosed in 2010 and works as a veterinarian and researcher.
Originally, she had wanted to pursue a career in equine medicine, but her EDS symptoms make standing for long periods and lifting heavy objects too difficult. So she turned her attention to researching EDS in animals and working towards more collaboration between doctors and vets.
She already had two Basset Hounds and a cat in her home, but when she heard about a cat with EDS, she went to go meet him.
Reed’s EDS gives him chronic joint pain and prevents him from jumping the way an average kitty would. His skin is also incredibly fragile.
The smallest abrasion can cause an open wound. If his claws aren’t carefully trimmed, then just an itch could cause a lot of damage. He can’t even bathe himself. Instead, Abby gives him a daily tidy with baby wipes and a monthly bath in the sink.
To protect his skin day-to-day, Reed has a wardrobe of special clothes
He’ll also often sport a collar, since frequent injury has made the skin on the back of his neck particularly sensitive.
Since Abby is a vet, she’s able to tend to the smaller abrasions at home and her knowledge of EDS allows her to help treat him when a trip to a pet hospital is needed.
Reed gets along well with his cat and dog siblings, but play is always supervised.
While Abby is at work, Reed spends the day sequestered in a room that’s been “Reed-proofed” to prevent injuries as much as possible.
She told Metro that caring for a pet with special needs can be wonderful and rewarding, but that future pet parents should be very sure that they are ready for the responsibility and expense.
A small laceration could cost $500 to properly treat and Reed hurts himself multiple times per month.
That’s why she’s sure to show the ups and the downs on Reed’s Instagram account . Abby shares tons of cute photos of Reed in his special clothes, but also his accidents and trips to the vet.
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Still, she never regrets taking him into her home.
“Owning a special needs pet can be an extremely rewarding experience,” she said. “They have a lot of love to give, and I think caring for a special needs animal creates a unique bond.”
h/t: Metro
