Social Zazz

Dog Lends Helping Paw to Disabled Cat

Cats and dogs may have their differences, but when the two rely on each other for companionship and survival, it’s a love story sweet enough to charm the Internet.

Online animal channel Wakaleo shares the story of Ralphee, who was born with a neurological disorder called cerebellar hypoplasia, or CH. This means the cerebellum is not completely mature at birth — it’s an underdevelopment in the part of the brain that controls fine motor skills and coordination.

Despite Ralphee’s inability to walk with a sense of direction, cats diagnosed with CH and no other unrelated conditions should have a normal lifespan, as the disease does not get better or worse with age. But Ralphee has the comfort of Max, a cattle dog that has taken a protective interest in the kitten.

“Ever since Ralphee was brought home, Max is never far away,” the video’s description on YouTube explains. “He appears to be forever curious and watches over Ralphee wherever she goes. Ralphee is growing more mischievous by the day and loves to see what Max is doing as well. She will often get excited when he is nearby and leap in the air before playfully charging in his direction.”

ralphee and max