Prancer’s Inspiring Journey: Our Wobbling Cat Finally Found Its Forever Home
She has a condition that causes her to wobble when she walks, but this cheerful kitten still lives life to the fullest.
Just like Santa’s beloved reindeer, our Prancer spreads happiness everywhere she goes—she just wobbles a bit while doing it.
Prancer the rosy-nosed kitten
Prancer, named after Santa’s reindeer along with her mother Vixen and siblings, arrived at Best Friends from a Utah shelter when the kittens were just a day old.
Early on, they fought off panleukopenia, a deadly virus for kittens, and giardia, a tough parasite. They recovered in a warm foster home, receiving essential medical care.
These resilient kittens gradually began to thrive, with Prancer growing well except for her unsteady walk. A vet visit confirmed she has cerebellar hypoplasia, also known as “wobbly
Despite her challenges, Prancer’s rescue was possible thanks to a cooperative shelter and the dedicated people who foster needy pets, critical steps toward achieving a no-kill status by 2025.
While her siblings were adopted, Prancer moved into a new foster home where her cheerful personality shone. She became known for her sociable, laid-back, and loving nature.
Her foster caregiver often carried her in a sling, and during visits to the Best Friends Lifesaving Center, staff took her out in a stroller, showing that Prancer was eager to engage with the world, even if in her unique way.
The season for warm, cozy homes is here
When Allison and Matthew met Prancer, they instantly fell in love and decided to adopt her. They fully understand her condition and actively help her improve her mobility with regular exercises (like water therapy in the bathtub) to strengthen her muscles.
Prancer is a real trooper, putting in plenty of effort, especially if it means getting to the last bit of her food.
Now, Prancer’s days are full of play and cuddles, even with the family dog. Allison and Matthew feel that this special kitten has truly been a gift in their lives.
Photos courtesy of Allison McParland and Sarah Ause Kichas
