Cat Born With Backwards Legs Is Walking Thanks to Rare Surgery

By Kelli Bender Jul 2nd 2012

Corky the cat is starting to explore the world on all fours, a big feat for the little feline. According to MSNBC, Corky was born with backwards and crossed legs. This is a rare condition that required an even rarer surgery.

The story of this spunky cat starts at a pound in Minnesota, where Gail Ventzke spotted the unusual kitten and adopted him. Ventzke brought the feline to the Cat's Cradle animal shelter in Fargo, N.D. where a vet looked over and x-rayed the cat.

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The x-rays revealed the extent of the kitten's odd condition and earned him the name Corky. Corky's twisted legs looked painful to many, but the cat didn't seem to notice that he was different from the other felines in the shelter. While Corky seemed comfortable, Ventzke knew that things would become difficult for the kitten in the future. Wanting to give him a chance at a full life, she found a vet willing to perform the complicated surgery it would take to right his legs.

The veterinarian performed a series of operations that included reshaping Corky's legs, removing joints and inserting steel plates. Corky followed up his surgery with intense therapy to help become accustomed to his new limbs. Sadly, even with hydrotherapy and acupuncture, Corky ended up needing one of his legs amputated due to circulatory problems.

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But there is a happy ending. Corky has adapted well to a three-legged life. Thanks to his healthy and untwisted third limb, the growing kitten is able to run up stairs, jump on furniture and keep up with the other cats in his home.


Ventzke told MSNBC the most amazing part about Corky's journey is how his endurance has inspired others. She frequently receives emails about her wonder cat, including a recent message from a woman saying Corky has given her the will to fight her cancer again.

We may see the effect Corky has had on others, but the cat is blissfully oblivious, spending his days scampering after laser lights and causing trouble, just like any other cat.

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