Oregon Humane Society Finds Home for Tortie Kitten with Super Rare Condition
The Humane Society of Central Oregon recently announced that one of their absolutely adorable shelter kittens was adopted into a new home. The little tortoiseshell kitten, named Cinder, was adopted into a family where the daughter is even graduating from veterinary school.
What makes this adoption story so remarkable is that Cinder is a type of kitten that most veterinarians never even see in their entire career.
Cinder is a male tortoiseshell cat that is also a hermaphrodite.
The Humane Society of Central Oregon explained this in their Facebook post from June 6 with, "Tortoiseshell colored cats, recognized for their striking swirls of black and shades of orange, are typically female. The Humane Society of Central Oregon’s Medical Director, Crystal Bloodworth, DVM, said “to call it a male is tough, but with the binary nature of animals and people’s perception of animals, we chose male.” The decision was based on the fact that the gonads (sex hormone producing organ) are male, and two were removed during what was expected to be a spay surgery."
Related: Shelter Worker Amazed When Incredibly Rare Cat Is Surrendered
The shelter went on to say, "HSCO’s Clinic Manager, Bailey Shelton, CVT said “it was like spotting a unicorn! Even though I’ve only been in the veterinary field for nine years, this very well could be a once-in-a-career moment. They always talked about how rare male tortoiseshells are back in school, but seeing one in person is something else. You just never know what amazing surprises await you at the humane society!”
The think little Cinder is very likely a three sex chromosome cat XXY. Some intersex cats may have an extra sex chromosome, resulting in an XXY configuration. These cats typically appear male but may have some female characteristics and are usually sterile.
What Does It Mean For a Cat to Be Intersex?
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When a cat is intersex, it means the cat has physical or genetic characteristics of both male and female sexes. This condition can occur in various forms and involves differences in the cat's chromosomes, ovaries or testes, or genitalia.
Intersex cats are just like regular cats and they generally lead normal lives, but their condition can sometimes affect their health or behavior. They may be sterile and may require veterinary care to manage any specific health issues related to their intersex condition.
How interesting but best of all, this adorable little kitten now has a forever home with all the love and care they deserve!
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