From Penelope’s New Family:
We took Penelope home just a few months ago, she is still a bit shy but she is the sweetest little girl. We don’t see her as having a disability because she is just like any other cat, she just needs eye drops is all. She is just so sweet I can’t take it! She’s a little sassy and bossy, and knows what she wants. She bumps into things here and there but she’s not bothered. She loves her crunchy toys, snuggling, and loves to climb her cat tree, literally. I love when she gets excited she opens her eyes as much as she can and even though they may look funny to others, I always tell her she’s beautiful. We couldn’t have made a better choice to have Penelope with us.
From Penelope’s Foster Mom:
In 2019, JCAPL took in 3 kittens found under a house. All 3 had eyelid agenesis and eye infections. Since they could not see well and were in cramped conditions, they also walked in a hunched over manner and were not very social. Archie, Penelope, and Marco have each undergone two cryotherapy surgeries. They will all need lubricating ointment in their eyes daily, but they are pretty normal cats otherwise. Archie is still in foster care. Marco is currently available for adoption; he is still skittish and will need a quiet home with a patient and loving family. Penelope has been adopted, and her adopter has shared pictures of her and tells us how Penelope is adjusting to her new home. We love it when adopters consider animals that are different, and may need a little extra care. And we are so happy Penelope is home!
Background:
Eyelid agenesis is a congenital defect of the eyelid where typically the upper lateral eyelid is not formed. Eyelid agenesis is most common in cats, but rare in dogs. Multiple kittens from a single litter are commonly affected. Eyelid agenesis commonly results in irritation from contact of hairs with the cornea, and over time vision can be affected. The most common treatment for the condition is removal of the hairs above the eye by liquid nitrogen cryotherapy. More than one surgery cycle is commonly required.
