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Disabled Kitten's Heartbreaking Struggle to Play Goes Viral
5 Mar
Summary
- A kitten named Lieutenant Dan with Manx syndrome struggles to play.
- A viral video shows the kitten's challenges keeping up with siblings.
- The kitten's owner seeks advice for toys suitable for her abilities.

A disabled foster kitten named Lieutenant Dan, who has Manx syndrome, has become a viral sensation due to her heartwarming attempts to play with her siblings. Manx syndrome affects the spine and nerves, often resulting in a lack of tail and impaired hind leg function.
Videos shared on TikTok show Lieutenant Dan struggling to keep pace with the other kittens, often watching from the sidelines when toys are involved. Her owner, Ashley Saldana, expressed sadness over Lieutenant Dan's feelings of being overwhelmed and separated from the group. Saldana is actively seeking suggestions for toys that accommodate the kitten's specific abilities.
Despite her mobility challenges, Lieutenant Dan shows independence by climbing into a cat bed. While some viewers suggested a pet wheelchair, Saldana noted it might not be feasible due to the kitten's ongoing growth. She anticipates Lieutenant Dan will require diapers due to lack of bladder and bowel control but remains confident a loving, suitable home will be found for the special kitten.