Three-Legged Cat Ajani Tut: An Inspirational Story

I believe that people who are passionate about animals have received a precious gift which must never be taken for granted. I also think it’s true that those of us who are fortunate enough to share our home and heart with companion animals recognize what amazing teachers they are, especially when courage is involved.

So the other day when I received an email from a friend about an incredibly lucky, brave three-month-old Abyssinian kitten, I was compelled to share the story with our readers. I am sure you will find the story of Ajani Tut both touching and inspirational.

The story began in February 2010 with a litter of Abyssinian kittens born near Vancouver, British Columbia, at the Abayomi Abyssinans Cattery. Abyssinians are famous for high energy and their inquisitive nature; these kittens were no exception. They got into everything, always playing with great gusto.

But three months later, the breeder, Tracy Fasciana noticed that one of the male kittens was limping, with his hind leg dangling. A trip to the vet revealed that the kitten’s femur had snapped in two.

Tracy’s veterinarian suggested immediate surgery but the procedure required inserting pins and plates with an external fixator followed by two months of kennel confinement.  And even with this extensive surgery and its extended recovery time, her veterinarian could not guarantee the kitten would ever walk normally again.

Even though the kitten had sustained a horrendous injury, he was perfectly healthy. Tracy could not stand the thought of euthanizing him. But when her vet then suggested amputation, she was somewhat hesitant, wondering how a kitten could manage on three legs. Her veterinarian assured her that cats do very well with three legs. Since the kitten’s rear leg was affected, he could easily learn to compensate, because cats carry the majority of their weight on their front legs. Amputation surgery was performed.

The kitten quickly adapted to his new body configuration. The day Tracy brought him home he was romping around on three legs like nothing had happened. Talk about courage and a huge zest for life.

The kitten had already been sold, and Tracy offered to return the money to the family who had purchased him. The breeder assumed they would take advantage of her offer, but much to her delight the family did not.

“We all decided that we do still want him," the family stated. "He is still an Aby, with the Aby soul and all the unique character traits that we have come to love. Four legs or three does not change that!”

They named the kitten Ajani, an African word meaning "he who wins struggles.” The daughter added Tut to his name, so he is called Ajani Tut.

No matter how many times I watch this beautiful chronological video uploaded to YouTube by Abayomiabys, I still weep tears of admiration for this amazing kitty and the folks that love him so dearly. Tissues are definitely in order.

What were your thoughts while reading Ajani Tut’s story and then watching the video? Share with a comment.