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The itsy bitsy Bitsy

The itsy bitsy Bitsy

Paprika, definitely not the world's smallest catFrom titanic Paprika to teensy Chalupa, we like our cats in all shapes, sizes and colors at Tabby’s Place. But, there’s something about the teensy-weensy ones that just seems to tug at our visitors’ hearts. It’s nothing new that pocket-sized felines, whether kittens or just little sprites like Erin, seem to get the lion’s share of the oohing and cooing. But, the latest bit of “tiny cat news” out there has me a bit concerned.

Check out this CNN footage of Bitsy, a one-year-old, 6 1/2″ tall, 18 3/4″ long, 1 1/2 pound cat vying for the title of “smallest cat” in the Guinness Book of World Records. Honestly, my first reaction to this video was concern for Bitsy: she seems rather shaky and fearful, and not entirely healthy. Now, I’m not a veterinarian, and this little sweetheart could just be terrified by the cameras (and the larger “normal” cat they put in her space).

But something here just doesn’t seem right. I winced when they forced her to meet the larger cat, who clearly terrified her, and caused her to tremble and wobble even more. Again, I hope I’m wrong, but she looks to have some neurological issues that need immediate veterinary attention and tender care. One source suggests that she is receiving care from a veterinarian for liver problems, and for being “a little unsteady.”

Our tiny Erin, bigger than Bitsy...but not by muchGiven all the attention Bitsy’s receiving, from CNN to Catster, I trust we’ll hear more about her in the days to come. Whether or not she wins her title, I truly hope that all this attention will ensure that Bitsy gets the additional attention – and maybe an extra meal or ten? – that she seems to need.

I don’t think there’s necessarily anything wrong with Bitsy’s people entering her in the Guinness competition…as long as their priority is on giving her a life of love and care. None of us who love cats adopt them for purely selfless reasons; we love to love them, and each cat gives us far more than we could ever hope to repay. But, valuing a “special” cat like Bitsy primarily for her looks or her record-breaking size seems rather disconcerting to me. What about the precious spirit in that tiny package?

This little pixie is already a winner in my book, just for being a cat and being herself, and I hope the people caring for her will put Bitsy’s health and happiness ahead of  breaking records. Godspeed, little Bitsy!

2 thoughts on “The itsy bitsy Bitsy

  1. Thank you, Angela — you summed up everything I was thinking when I saw this video. Is this little soul just another news item of the day? Is she going to be okay? Was this all staged? These videos are very scary because we never know what’s behind them!

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