It’s all too common in hoarding situations that many of the cats are not spayed or neutered. Because of this, and because the gentic pool in such situations is often severely restricted, inbreeding is frequent. Our little Sprite began her life in such an unfortunate environment. She has congenital blindness and some neurological issues, as well (she walks with an odd gait, for starters). There’s nothing to do for her eyesight, alas, but her neurological issues don’t require treatment, either. Sprite is also polydactyl, with some of the largest “thumbs” I’ve ever seen on a feline.

Whatever her physical quirks, Sprite adjusts quickly to new environments, is a smart little girl, and is very inquisitive. As you know, every cat who goes into a suite at Tabby’s Place spends a day or two in a large crate there. This is done so we can make sure the new arrival is eating and that everyone has had a chance to get used to the new scent(s). When we let Sprite out of her crate, within five minutes she had found her way to the litter box and used it! She surprises us by being able to paw through papers and get into things just as much as any sighted feline does.

Sprite is a tiny little thing, which may be due partly to her young age (she was born sometime in October of 2010). She has fur that looks like a cross between black and a very dark grey. And she is a wonderfully good-natured girl. She loves to be held and likes to rub her face on yours.

Sprite doesn’t need a special diet, nor any kind of medical treatment, for her conditions. We know not everyone wants to adopt a cat like her, but as far as we’re concerned she’s just a sweet little lady who needs an adopter (or adopters) willing to make a few allowances for a very special lovebug.