In late June, a stray kitten named Gelato was taken to Cincinnati Animal CARE in Ohio after being found in a nearby park with a spinal injury that prevented him from using his back legs. Mallory Smith, the shelter’s veterinary assistant lead, designed a makeshift wheelchair for Gelato using rulers, zip ties, and toy Hot Wheels cars, allowing him to regain mobility.
Read More
Gelato gained significant attention on social media following the release of his photos and videos in July, accumulating nearly 19,000 likes on Instagram. As a result of his newfound fame, he received a customized set of 3D printed wheels from a friend of Smith’s. "I didn’t expect him to go viral and cause such a story to talk about over his little wheelchair," Smith told TODAY.com, noting that the attention has sparked conversations about adopting special needs animals.
Gelato, approximately 10 weeks old now, was found alongside four other kittens, but details of his prior life remain unclear. He arrived at the shelter with visible injuries, and Smith speculated that he may have been hit by something or suffered a fall. Initially, he needed cage rest to prevent further injury.
As his condition improved, Gelato began showing interest in playing and running, although he lacked the muscle mass needed for these activities. While the shelter had donated wheelchairs, none fit him due to his small size, prompting Smith to create a custom solution.
Not long after, the 3D printed wheelchair was completed, which is adjustable and even has Gelato's name engraved on it. Currently, Smith is fostering Gelato, providing him with daily physical therapy aimed at strengthening his legs. She anticipates that he will be ready for adoption in about a month and remains hopeful for his recovery, despite uncertainties regarding his ability to walk independently in the future.