A little tabby kitten named Merida stole the hearts of many with her unbreakable spirit and determination to live life to the fullest after being discovered on a farm at just 2.5 months old. Jillian, the creator of FosterBabyCats in Columbus, Ohio, quickly came to her aid.
A tabby cat was found by Jillian with a spinal injury that may have occurred from being stepped on by a farm animal. The poor kitten’s hind legs were unable to move, and Jillian quickly took her to the nearest specialist and emergency pet hospital. Unfortunately, the vet informed her that there was nothing they could do to save the feline’s life. Nonetheless, Jillian was determined to give the cat a chance to fight and survive.
Jillian was on a mission to aid Merida, her beloved cat. Luckily, Dr. Jackie Holdsworth, a skilled surgeon and neonatal specialist, came forward to offer much-needed guidance and supplies for the feline’s care. Merida, a spunky tabby, who was named after the Brave movie character, was determined to live life happily despite her paralysis.
Merida proved to be a resilient and determined cat as soon as she recovered from her illness. Despite having only two functional legs, she fearlessly chased after larger cats in the area and didn’t see herself as any less capable. Her tenacious spirit was evident when she first attempted to climb and play like any other cat. She was a fierce fighter and wouldn’t let her disability hold her back from being the toughest feline around. Even with her limitations, Merida still had plenty of energy and loved to play and run around with the best of them.
During the following months, Merida underwent various treatments and therapies to enhance her mobility. Once she was introduced to a set of wheels, she became incredibly energetic and lively. She moved around the house like a little tornado, playing with her other feline companions. Her newfound love for fetch made her obsessed with retrieving toys like a professional athlete.
Jillian noted that Merida’s ability to perform various activities is not hindered by her wheels. Merida can roll, stretch, lay down, climb, and sneak up on other cats with ease. However, Merida exhibits an exceptional talent for climbing when she is off her wheels, conquering any peak she comes across. Jillian further added that every day brings new exciting experiences for Merida, and she is determined to assist her in living life to the fullest.
Jillian, who owns a paraplegic cat named Merida, shared with Love Meow that she relied on the guidance of several veterinarians to properly care for her furry friend. However, after Merida turned 9 months old, Jillian realized that she was fully capable of keeping Merida comfortable and happy on her own. Merida has received treatment from about twelve vets and specialists and currently undergoes electromagnetic and light therapy at home while taking nerve pain medication.
Merida has developed into a bold and joyful troublemaker, embodying courage and confidence. She is always scheming for her next adventure, displaying an unwavering resolve to pursue her desires that never fails to impress her human companions. According to Jillian from Love Meow, Merida’s temperament has undergone a complete transformation during her time at FosterBabyCats. Initially, she seemed timid and hesitant, but now she has become the most audacious feline around, delighting in teasing cats much larger than herself.
Merida has a few favorite pastimes that make her happy, including lounging on her balcony while soaking up the sun’s rays, pursuing her siblings around the house, playing with door stops, and speeding around on her specially designed mobility device. Jillian, Merida’s caretaker, finds joy in every little achievement, such as wiggling toes, knowing that Merida’s personality was her saving grace during her initial 2.5 months of life without assistance.
Jillian expressed her gratitude towards the person who encouraged her to learn how to care for a paralyzed kitten and help it thrive. She feels overjoyed knowing that the kitten is now safe and proud of the progress it has made under her care. Jillian acknowledges the kitten’s strength, bravery, and determination to overcome its disability but also understands that it’s okay to ask for assistance when needed.