Who is Dapper Dan?

We have a lot of new faces here on our blog, so we wanted to give you a rundown on one of our most popular cats: Dapper Dan. 

Dapper Dan is a disabled cat who lives permanently at the shelter, here in Corpus Christi, Texas. Dan has a spinal injury, which has caused ongoing issues such as: 

• incontinence
• being unable to use his back legs
• megacolon
• and being completely adorable

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How did Dapper Dan get hurt?

The truth is, we don't know. Dan was abandoned to the care of The Cattery Cat Shelter in Corpus Christi, Texas. He was left in a box outside, and he's been a part of our Cattery family ever since. 

How does a cat with a spinal injury use the toilet?

Twice a day, trained professionals will bathe any affected cat in the sink. A technique is then applied to the glands to help the cat relieve themselves. This is usually done in the morning and the afternoon. 

Do cats with spinal injuries have pain?

While cat's that experience the same injury as Dapper Dan may have pain, Dan actually shows no signs or symptoms of this. However, to be on the safe side we do issue him with daily pain relief, just in case. After all, cats are notorious for hiding their feelings!

What is megacolon?

To quote Web MD, "megacolon in cats is a long-lasting condition where your cat’s large intestine is consistently stretched out more than it should be." 

This means that Dan has to be on a special diet, and under constant observation to ensure he exhibits no symptoms of getting sick.  Naturally, this care is quite expensive, but Dan is completely worth it!

Megacolon in cats is a long-lasting condition where your cat's large intestine — or colon — is consistently stretched out more than it should be. It is usually filled with dried feces. Megacolon is the most common cause of obstipation in cats. - WEB MD

Does Dan have a wheelchair?

Not at this time! Dan has showed no sign of letting his injury stop him, and has no current need for a wheelchair. If this changes over time, however, The Cattery will do all they can to raise funds for him and get him a wheelchair. 

I want to visit Dan! Is there anything I should know?

While Dan is now a confident cat and a clear internet sensation, it may take him a while to come out of his shell with new people. We're happy for visitors to meet Dan in person, but when you do, just go slow and approach him softly - we're sure Dan will love you!

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Author

Lizzie is a freelance content creator with a passion for everything feline. She is ruled by a 12-year-old ragdoll cat called Tink, who loves pillow forts and Temptations™.