Edward is a five-year-old cat who, some might say, has two strikes against him. He is FIV+ and also suffers from cerebellar hypoplasia (CH). This is a neurological disorder characterized by lack of balance and coordination, causing Edward’s legs to move independently of each other and, consequently, giving him an awkward gait.

Does this bother our boy? Not for a minute.

Edward is one of the happiest, most love-seeking cats you could ever meet. When you visit the FIV+ suite, don’t even try to ignore him, because he won’t let you! Edward will run after you for cuddles and hugs. He loves attention, loves catnip toys and loves life. He thinks it’s just fine to move his own way and enjoy life from his own perspective. And why not? He knows everyone immediately falls in love with him, and that makes him perfect just the way he is.

In addition to CH, Edward’s “alphabet soup” of special needs includes feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV). The virus disables or destroys a cat’s white blood cells, leaving him more susceptible to infections than the average feline. Once a cat is infected with FIV, he’ll have the virus for life. Like, Thomas, Nuttin, and all our FIV+ cats, Edward most likely contracted FIV from a bite while living outdoors as a stray.

Fortunately, neither CH nor FIV is life-threatening with proper care, and Edward is receiving first-rate medical attention (as well as oodles of love) at Tabby’s Place. Given his mobility issues, Edward is not always able to be completely consistent with his litter box (although he tries with all his might). As a result, he therefore requires a little bit of extra staff time and patience to keep him clean and comfortable.

Suite FIV is specially outfitted with easy-to-clean materials, and we keep the suite as sanitary as possible to reduce the risk of infection. Edward and all of our FIV+ kitties also receive a high-quality diet to strengthen their immune systems, as well as frequent attention from our veterinarian. Cuddly Edward’s response to all this attention could be summarized as, “more, please!”

We are elated to have such a lovable character as Edward at Tabby’s Place, and we hope that he will touch a >special adopter’s heart. But, we know a special sweetie like Edward is not the right cat for everyone. While he waits for his meant-to-be home, would you please help provide for his needs as his sponsor?