It’s not quite that there’s “something different” about Deku.

There’s everything different about Deku … and the differences are delightful.

With fudgy stripes that stick up in all directions, and dancing eyes that only see the good in others, Deku is a giddy, jiggly mystery.

Is he a toddler from another planet, or an overflowing bowl of Cheerios? Where did he learn that each new “today” is the Best Day Ever? And can he teach us his secret of invincible hope?

Though you would never guess it from his dizzy bliss today, Deku was once a desperate stray. Born more delicate than the average kitten, he was unsteady on his feet and constantly tumbling into trouble. A rare motion disorder left him prone to spasmic episodes, seizures, and fits of “buffering” in a strange, suspended animation, as though he had gone into another dimension.

But even in his lonely days, Deku refused to stay down. And, sure enough, our innocent optimist found the kindness he deserved.

A large shelter took pity on Deku, bringing him in from the cold. His eyes brimmed with hope, like an orphan wondering if he would finally get to be someone’s little boy: Will you cut the crusts off my grilled cheese? Will you help me up when I fall down?

Deku’s rescuers were smitten with this sunny spaceman, but they could not keep him. Deku needed supervision to stay safe, and his busy, bewildered brain could not always compute the litter box. In a crowded shelter, these medical eccentricities made Deku “unadoptable.”

He had one hope: a place where differences are not disappointments, but delights.

And so, Tabby’s Place became Deku’s home planet.

He instantly got to work making sure we all (feline and otherwise) knew that we are, apparently, the Best People Ever. Had we not heard? Life is a magical delicatessen, because we all get to be here together!

Five minutes with Deku were enough to turn the gruffest cynic back into a toddler.

But we worried we might not have much time with Deku. His symptoms did not seem to upset him, but we feared for the worst. Delicate diagnostics ruled out the “obvious” explanations of cerebellar hypoplasia or infection. We would not rest until we knew how to care for the careening, compassionate little cat who was already making us all better people.

Happily, a world-class neurologist cracked the case. Deku has a condition called Paroxysmal Kinesigenic Dyskinesis. Although it is exceedingly rare, this disorder is neither fatal nor painful. It simply means Deku will need a lifetime of tender care, steadfast supervision, and the kind of patience you might give a baby.

Which might explain Deku’s need for “Baby Mode.”

If there’s one thing Deku loves, it’s…everything. But Deku’s favorite part of everything is a little something we call “Baby Mode.”

If you want to make the happiest cat in the world even happier, you will gently scoop him into your arms, cradle him like an infant, and rock him as he drifts into dreamland. Also, cancel any appointments you may have scheduled for the next four hours.

Deku is looking for sponsors who will hold him close for the long haul. Although we believe the right adopter will adore him, it may take some time to find them. In the meantime, you can wrap Deku in your arms. Your monthly donation will keep him safe and healthy for many “Best Days Ever” yet to come.

Please let Deku wobble his way into your heart. He would love to be your baby. He’s already convinced you’re the Best Person Ever.