Everything Was Going Bad For This Kitten With Twisted Legs Until Oregon Woman Found Him

Meet Macaroni, a little polydactyl kitten born with a front leg abnormality. 

Just when life seemed stacked against him, he crossed paths with a kind-hearted person determined to give him the chance to one day play and run like any other kitten.

His journey began when Jacqueline “DeAmor” Santiago, president of Friends for Life Rescue Network, noticed the tiny orange tabby and immediately recognized that something was different about his front legs.

With her wealth of experience in helping special needs kittens, Jacqueline knew she couldn’t turn away from Macaroni and stepped in right away to provide support.

Macaroni was certainly one of a kind – polydactyl, with extra toes, and also born with contracted tendons that left his front legs looking twisted.

At just four days old, Macaroni was taken into Jacqueline’s care. The moment she saw him, she made up her mind to do everything possible to help him grow and enjoy life just like any healthy kitten would.

Despite his young age, Macaroni had a great advantage because newborn kittens have better chances of correcting their twisted legs. Jacqueline shared in an interview:

“This is often caused by either polydactylism (extra toes) or by a small mom with not enough room in the womb for the legs to stretch. Their legs get stuck in the same position during development and need to be stretched over the course of weeks to help them grow correctly.”

Jacqueline wasted no time in beginning Macaroni’s treatment, focusing on physical therapy that included gentle massages and stretching exercises. 

His progress was incredible – session by session, he showed both courage and steady improvement.

When Macaroni’s eyes finally opened and his tiny ears unfolded, it was clear he was ready to take on the world like any other kitten. 

With his oversized paws and slightly wobbly steps, he fearlessly set out to explore everything around him.

Over time, Macaroni’s front limbs improved significantly and weren’t twisted as before. However, there was still a long journey ahead of him. Jacqueline said:

“The stretches have helped prepare him for splinted wraps (which shouldn’t start until at least four weeks old) by stretching and lengthening the tendons to maximize success.”

Macaroni got used to his treatments so much that he enjoyed the attention he received multiple times a day. Jacqueline added:

“His legs are just a little stubborn, so the splints are done for a few days to get him over the threshold and get his paws under him. As he grows, his weight will finish straightening the rest.”

Macaroni showed himself to be a true little fighter, determined to get his legs into proper shape. 

Even better, he grew livelier every day, soaking up the affection of his foster mom and happily playing alongside the resident cat, Wolfie.

Jacqueline said:

“Mac is a big purr machine and loves to play already. He enjoys flailing his legs and trying to bite with his tiny teeth. He’s still ultra snuggly. We are hoping that once his paws are under him, he will start running around.”

In the days ahead, Jacqueline and her team remain hopeful that Macaroni will keep moving forward on his journey. 

With his fighting spirit and determination, there’s little doubt he’ll continue to thrive.

Once Macaroni makes a full recovery, the hope is that he’ll be welcomed into a loving home where he can race around just like any other kitten. 

With his sweet nature and irresistible charm, it’s certain he’ll win over a family in no time.