Today, our wonderful story about a cat named Scrappy teaches us all an important lesson about acceptance, whether it is an animal or a human being. We are all different, and these characteristics that allow us to stand out, also make us unique creatures in every way.
Who knew there was such a thing known as feline depigmentation. In other words, cats can also develop a skin condition known as vitiligo. In human beings, the condition occurs when our cells that create pigment are suddenly being destroyed, and white patches appear on different areas of the body. Science has not been able to come up with a reason why this occurs in some people, but the late Michael Jackson revealed he was suffering with the disease.
Meanwhile, cats like Scrappy can also start showing the effects of vitiligo in very striking ways. First of all, let’s see how this adorable and feisty cat came to be known to the world.
A gentleman named David decided to adopt a kitten in 1997. The UK resident knew that people usually avoid adopting black cats at shelters, because some folks are superstitious and really believe a black cat will bring bad luck to their environment. That sounds so silly, and David decided right there, that he would give this energetic little kitten a loving, kind new home in London.
Right away, the adorable cat began leaping around the house and enjoying his new digs, exploring his property outdoors and playing with his toys. His owner believed that his coal-black, four-legged companion was living up to his name.
As Scrappy began developing into a young cat, he was starting to change in appearance. At around seven, David noticed that Scrappy was forming white patches here and there, as if the feline were dunked in bits of white frost. It was actually a very unique look and gave the cat quite a regal presence. Neighbors and friends began observing the black and white patterned coat and were charmed by Scrappy, falling in love with his rare beauty.
David thought his cat resembled a “Nordic God,” as it resembled some kind of a fantastical black creature coated in snow and ice. Veterinarians told David that Scrappy was advancing with vitiligo, and these white patches would continue to appear on its coat, giving it a lacy or web-like pattern.
The feline depigmentation did not harm Scrappy physically, because he is still growing strong at age 19. The condition is quite rare though, and none of Scrappy’s siblings from the litter of five had inherited the vitiligo.
Scrappy gets moody once in a while, and he wasn’t too wild about some new kittens David brought into the family. He’s coping well, however, and still the kind, fearless feline anyone would adore.
Scrappy is special and resembles a beautiful marble work of art. Here’s wishing God’s gorgeous creature a continued long, happy life.