Cat With Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Finally Found A Home And A Happy Life With His Human Companions

When Georgina Price and Christopher Lardner, her fiance, adopted their first rescue cat, Herbie, the 16-year-old cat was near the end of his journey. Alas, Herbie died just months later. And although the couple had only known him for a little while, they were heartbroken by his passing. The loss, though, had opened their hearts for somebody new.

While browsing the internet, Georgina stumbled upon Toby and Quinton. “We found them on the RSPCA website when they were looking for a home,” said Georgina. Quinton, a seven-year-old black and white cat, was missing all of his teeth and Toby, a six-year-old short-haired cat, had a lot of loose skin. “They’re a bonded pair, the RSPCA advertised them together. And we thought if we can help two cats rather than one, then that’s the best possible outcome.”

Georgina eventually found out that Toby had been diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) or feline cutaneous asthenia (FCA), a congenital condition which can cause unusually stretchy, loose, and fragile skin due to a lack of collagen.

The couple visited the duo at the RSPCA where they lived in a special unit. Georgina could pet Quinton, but she could not touch Toby because he was just too scared. She and Christopher were still confident that they were ready to take good care of the exceptionally nervous special-needs feline, so they adopted both Toby and Quinton.

Toby and Quinton took a while to find peace in their new home. “They were just so scared and were living under the bed for weeks, but food and love eventually got them out,” said Georgina. “And Now they own the place. They do whatever they want and act mad when you turn the light on if they’re asleep on the bed or something.”

Toby’s delicate skin condition, though, makes him prone to injury even when he’s merely grooming himself or playing with Quinton. Due to Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, Toby’s stomach hangs down to his knees, and the couple is concerned about the effect that the added weight of this extra skin may have on his long-term health, for instance, the excess weight of his skin might cause joint problems.

His condition aside, Toby is an average kitty. He likes playing with bouncy balls, bird watching, and snuggling with his owners.

Georgina hopes sharing Toby’s story will raise awareness about his rare condition but also encourage more people to consider bringing special-needs cats into their lives.

More info: Instagram (h/t meow.af)