When this tiny cat was discovered roaming the streets of Philadelphia, she encountered a new obstacle upon arriving at a nearby urban animal shelter.
Tate, also known as Tater Tot, was discovered abandoned outside all by herself. Due to being a polydactyl, the shelter didn’t have the necessary resources to care for her as a bottle-fed kitten. Fortunately, Jen Mack, the founder of Kitkat Playroom, a volunteer-run nonprofit rescue, came to the rescue by driving across the state from New Jersey to save the kitten just in time.
At only two weeks old, Tate was extremely underweight. However, once introduced to the bottle, she eagerly latched on and started eating like there was no tomorrow.
A week later, Jen noticed a concerning soft spot on top of Tate’s head. After consulting with a neurologist at Red Bank Veterinary Hospital, it was revealed that Tate was born with hydrocephalus, a perilous condition where there is an accumulation of excess cerebral spinal fluid in her brain. “It’s a very dangerous situation,” Jen informed Love Meow.
In the upcoming weeks, the adorable ginger kitten at the Kitkat Playroom had to undergo two procedures to eliminate extra fluid. Following the second drain, it was determined that a crucial life-saving surgery was necessary. This surgery involved inserting a magnetic adjustable shunt into her brain.
Post-surgery, the little kitten showed amazing progress – eating heartily, being active, and using her litter box without any issues. The good news is, as she continues to grow, the amount of fluid drained by the shunt can be adjusted externally using magnets, eliminating the need for further surgeries in the future.
Playtime with Kitkat
This feisty little feline knows no bounds.
“At just nine weeks old, she underwent two brain surgeries and a never-before-performed procedure for a kitten her size. Yet, she just wanted to frolic and play. She’s completely unaware of her uniqueness,” shared Jen.
Three weeks after the surgery, Tater was recovering remarkably well. Taking frequent naps to recharge, she would then have bursts of energy during her 10-minute play breaks throughout the day. Watching her zoom around the room with such vigor was truly a sight to behold.
Kitkat Playroom
After reaching 14 weeks of age, Tate finally had the chance to enjoy running and playing just like any other kitten.
“It’s so rewarding to see her thriving like this. She’s a real trooper. She breezed through her recovery,” Jen remarked. “I even got to snuggle with her in bed for the first time ever.”
In the Kitkat Playroom, Tate showed a growing need for Jen’s love and affection as she continued to recuperate. Whenever they snuggled, Tate would purr loudly, showing her contentment.
“Every morning, I was greeted by Tate’s eager meows, urging me to start the day. And every night, she would curl up under the covers with me, a sweet surprise as I never expected her to be so cuddly.”
Kitkat Playroom
Finding comfort in the arms of her savior was a crucial part of her healing journey. She was showered with love and never felt abandoned.
Check out this heartwarming video of Tate, the kitten, snuggled up with her rescuer:
Tate the kitten finds solace in her rescuer youtu.be
Following six weeks of surgical recovery, the veterinary team was astounded by Tate’s remarkable progress. She triumphantly completed her medication regimen and emerged as a resilient warrior.
Rather than opting for her usual cat beds, Tate chooses to curl up on Jen’s lap for hours on end. Their cuddle sessions are a source of immense comfort until she eventually awakens from her slumber.
Tate has really embraced her cuddly side lately. “She’s the most adorable nap partner ever.”
Kitkat’s favorite spot for nap time is on the couch next to Jen’s face. She insists on joining Jen for a snooze, even if Jen is busy. If Jen doesn’t sit down, Kitkat gets upset until she can cuddle up for a nap together.
The Kitkat Playroom is full of unexpected moments, with Tate constantly keeping me on my toes. Despite never showing interest in climbing stairs before, one morning she surprised me by conquering them all. I was shocked to see her in my bedroom, having climbed the stairs not once, but twice. Tate never fails to amaze me with her adventurous spirit.
Kitkat Playroom is home to an adorable feline who may have some quirks but is as lovable as any other kitten her age, if not more so. Despite some depth perception issues that only serve to make her even more endearing, she is always running around and having fun on the first floor. According to Jen, Tate is the tiniest and youngest creature to ever undergo and successfully recover from this surgery. This incredible kitty never fails to show her affection for her humans, showering them with cuddles each and every day.
Kitkat’s Funhouse
Spread the word among your pals. Keep up with Tate and her escapades on Instagram. Tune in to her live streams on YouTube.