A woman from Florida who rescued a homeless kitten with a condition resembling Down Syndrome has shared how the spirited feline has become a social media sensation on Instagram.
Lori Farris, a 50-year-old special needs teacher, found Willow when she was just five weeks old, wandering the streets with a bloody nose and covered in fleas.
After taking Willow to the vet for treatment, Lori was warned that a shelter might euthanize her because she wasn’t conventionally ‘pretty’.
Although Willow displays some physical characteristics similar to humans with Down Syndrome, such as low muscle tone in her face and a flat nasal bridge, it is scientifically impossible for cats to have that condition due to differences in chromosome numbers between cats and humans.
Check out the video below to see Willow in action.
Larry Farris, a 50-year-old special education teacher from Florida, came across a two-year-old girl named Willow who was wandering the streets at just five weeks old with a bloody nose and covered in fleas.
After discovering tiny Willow on the street, Lori made the decision to bring her home and provide care for her. Willow, named after the street she was found on, was in poor condition with fleas, a bloody nose, eye infections, and intestinal parasites. Despite facing challenges, Lori chose to keep Willow after learning that she may not have survived in a shelter due to her appearance.
Since then, Willow has found a best friend in Ella, a boxer dog. The two hit it off right from the start, with Ella showing curiosity and eventually approaching Willow with courage. Now, Willow and Ella live happily together, capturing the hearts of over 130,000 online followers with their heartwarming relationship.
After taking her to a veterinarian for a check-up, the vet mentioned that a shelter might euthanize her for not meeting their standards of beauty. It’s unfortunate to think that her appearance could determine her fate just because she is a kitten.
Willow, a two-year-old cat, has amassed a legion of 130,000 followers on social media by captivating them with her charming photos. Since the day they met, Willow has formed an unbreakable bond with her owner, playfully nibbling and swatting at her. They do everything together – from eating and playing to even snoozing side by side. This unique feline has gathered an impressive 136,000 followers on Instagram, where her feed is filled with adorable pictures of her donning a variety of quirky hats, most of them adorned with flowers.
The creature was brought home and now happily resides with Lori and her pet boxer, Ella. They have become inseparable pals.
When special education teacher Lori found the young animal at only five weeks old, she encountered issues such as eye infections, fleas, and intestinal parasites.
Willow and boxer dog Ella have formed an inseparable bond, being best friends who often coordinate their outfits for adorable photo ops. Lori expressed her delight in seeing Willow embrace her unique style, especially with her collection of flower hats that have garnered a positive response on Instagram. She believes that Willow’s charm lies in her embodiment of love, kindness, and beauty despite her unconventional appearance. While Lori is unfazed by people calling Willow “weird-looking,” she strongly objects to those who use hurtful terms like “ugly,” “retarded,” or “gross” to describe her beloved cat. Lori sees Willow as a truly special feline companion who brings joy and love into her life.
Willow the amazing Kitty has an impressive following of 136,000 fans on her Instagram account.
Larry mentioned that Willow absolutely loves showing off her collection of hats and stylish outfits on her Instagram.
