A tiny kitten, later named Apec, was abandoned at a temple in critical condition. Malnourished, covered in fungus, and severely weakened, his prospects for survival seemed bleak. It was a compassionate monk who discovered Apec and rushed him to a veterinarian. The little kitten was suffering from severe diarrhea, and his body was emaciated, consisting of just skin and bones. The cruelty of his abandonment was heart-wrenching, but Apec was given a glimmer of hope. He survived through that first night—a sign that he was a fighter.
On the second day, Apec’s condition improved slightly. He began eating, consuming food with a desperate hunger, as if aware that survival depended on it. However, his fragile body was still a cause for concern. The fungus had taken over every inch of his tiny form, and the vet warned that his immune system was almost nonexistent. On Day 3, in an effort to strengthen his immune system, Apec was given time to sunbathe and watch birds in the morning light. Sun exposure gave him a bit of vitamin D, and for a brief moment, Apec could feel the warmth of the world that had so far been unkind to him.
However, more problems arose. By Day 4, his caregivers noticed that Apec’s penis was swollen and red, likely the result of an insect bite or other irritant. The kitten’s cry of pain was heartbreaking, but he continued to fight. Despite his struggles, Apec was improving. By Day 5, his bowel movements were more regular, and his feces had more texture, a sign that his digestive system was recovering.
Still, the fungus persisted. His skin began peeling off in sheets, revealing the dirt that had been buried in his skin for so long. Mites were discovered in his ears, adding to his misery. But with each day, Apec grew a little stronger. On Day 8, however, it was noticed that Apec walked strangely. Further examination revealed that his left back leg was deformed—his hip bone crooked, likely from birth or some early accident. Walking caused his back legs to spread wide apart. Apec had another obstacle to overcome.
By Day 9, Apec’s personality began to shine through. No longer just a survivor, he was now fierce and playful, even hitting his new brother playfully, as if asserting himself in his newfound strength. His caretakers couldn’t help but laugh at his spirit, even joking about his unusual appearance.
Over the next few days, Apec continued to grow, eat, and play. By Day 15, despite his odd shape—his big belly and loose legs—Apec had become a beloved character in his caretakers’ home. He earned the nickname “alien cat” because of his unique appearance, but his heart and spirit were undeniable. By Day 25, Apec was healthy, happy, and loved, showing remarkable intelligence despite his challenges.
Now, on Day 35, Apec is ready for his forever home. Though his journey was full of hardships, his resilience and the love of his caregivers brought him back to health. Apec’s story is a reminder of the incredible strength of animals and the importance of kindness and care in healing even the most broken of creatures.
