When a kitten named Schuster arrived at the Tails High rescue centre in the US, volunteers immediately noticed he was unusually small for his age. They knew he needed special attention, so he was placed with an experienced foster carer named Ryen.
A surprising diagnosis
“He was a happy and energetic little boy, but as soon as he arrived at my home, it was clear something wasn't right,” Ryen told Love Meow.
Vets soon discovered that the little tomcat was born with hypothyroidism. This condition can lead to stunted growth, low energy, and sometimes a permanent kitten-like appearance.
An inseparable trio
As a result, at three and a half months old, Schuster was the size of a kitten who was barely 8 weeks old. But being smaller than the others didn't stop him from finding a best friend. His new companion was Simon Says, a ginger tabby who was paralysed in his back legs.
A short time later, the duo welcomed another cat, Penguin, into their group. The three cats formed a wonderful bond and quickly became inseparable.
