Rescue Kitten Born Without Paw Up For Adoption

BOSTON (CBS) -- A local black cat is looking for a new home and a new paw.

Shelley the 3-year-old shorthair was born without a left hind paw. Veterinarians say Shelley can move OK without it, but she risks developing long-term joint problems, sores and arthritis.

BluePearl Veterinary Partners is working on fitting Shelley with a prosthetic leg, which should allow her to run and jump better.

Shelley the cat. (Image credit BluePearl Veterinary Partners)

Shelley was given up by her previous owner, an elderly woman moving to Florida, who could no longer keep her.

"She's a terrific cat who loves snuggling and being around people," Black Cat Rescue adoption counselor Susanna Finn said. "We want to do everything we can to improve her quality of life. She's going to be a wonderful pet for a lucky person."

The cost of Shelley's care, including a prosthetic leg being fitted by BluePearl Veterinary Partners, is estimated to be about $3,000.

An x-ray of Shelley the cat. (Image credit BluePearl Veterinary Partners)

Anyone interested in supporting Shelley or adopting her can find more information at blackcatrescue.com