A blind cat who overcame extraordinary odds to survive has captured the hearts of internet viewers after experiencing fall for the first time.
Heather Buchanan (@fost.er_kittens), a nurse from Ohio, shared the heartwarming clip, which shows Noey contentedly exploring the fall air on a leash, has garnered over 91,000 likes and more than 4.8 million views.
Noey’s story began with a struggle. He and his four siblings and mother were brought to the shelter suffering from severe upper respiratory infections and lungworm. Sadly, one of his siblings didn’t survive. After being adopted at 8 weeks, Noey was returned to the shelter by his adopted family, who blamed his cloudy eyes and uncontrolled urination.
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“He was very frightened and would cling to the shelter worker’s shoulder when they held him,” Buchanan told Newsweek.
From left: blind Noey the cat stands wearing bowtie; and looks up with his earlier cloudy eyes. He overcame the odds after fighting a life-threatening disease and losing his eyesight.
fost.er_kittens/fost.er_kittens
Noey’s eyes were purple and swollen from inflammation, and he hadn’t gained any weight in six weeks. Buchanan handed the kitten a life line and took him in.
Shelter veterinarians prescribed medications, but Noey’s condition showed no improvement. Eventually, surgery was performed to remove his eyes; Noey was suffering from a rare condition called ocular feline infectious peritonitis (FIP).
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Understanding Ocular FIP
This is a devastating disease, with a high fatality rate if left untreated. It occurs when a feline coronavirus mutates, often after respiratory issues.
The mutation causes the immune system to attack the body, leading to symptoms such as inflammation of organs, including the eyes; fever; and pain. While once deemed untreatable, modern medicine has offered hope in the form of GS-441524, a drug similar to remdesivir used during the COVID-19 crisis, Buchanan said in her Instagram post.
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After undergoing 84 days of this stringent treatment and observation, the little cat miraculously recovered. “Watching Noey’s indomitable spirit and health journey over the last year has been an amazing experience. I’m so proud of my little warrior,” said Buchanan.
From left: Noey the cat yawns; and cuddles up with another kitten. He is thriving since his surgery and has a great quality of life.
fost.er_kittens/fost.er_kittens
A Brave Explorer
Despite his blindness, Noey has adapted remarkably well to his surroundings. “I watch him bravely explore the world thriving, and I know I could never overcome the obstacles he has,” Buchanan said.
“His senses are so keen. He taps his foot ever so subtly as he walks to feel his way. He uses his whiskers like a walrus and feels around. His ears twitch continuously like sonar.”
She often exposes Noey to new sensory experiences, which he enjoys thoroughly. Taking him outside in the fall allows him to feel the crisp air and hear the rustling of leaves, making for a magical and calming experience for both of them.
Contrary to popular belief, caring for a blind cat like Noey requires minimal adjustments.
Buchanan said that Noey uses his litter box without fail; runs to his food bowl when he hears a can pop; and even plays with their other cat, Lt. Dan, following him by the sound of his footsteps. Buchanan added that she has made only one major modification for safety: placing a barrier on the stairs, which Noey doesn’t seem to need anymore, but she keeps it there out of precaution.
Caring for a blind cat is often simpler than expected, as outlined by the Cats Protection U.K. charity, which advises keeping a consistent environment, providing sensory stimulation, and ensuring safety around hazards like stairs.
Social Media Reactions
Noey’s journey has inspired many on social media to write comments such as, “This brings tears to my eyes. So beautiful,” and, “Thank you for loving him.” Viewers expressed their admiration for both Noey and Buchanan.
Another user posted: “I’m seriously crying, so sweet and innocent. The music was perfect. Thank you for sharing your special kitty.”
Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.com with some details about your best friend, and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.
