Dymka the kitten endured a traumatic experience when she lost all four of her limbs after being buried in the snow for an extended period. This type of injury is particularly devastating to animals as it limits their mobility and often leads to illness and death. However, Dymka’s story took a different turn when she was fitted with four titanium prosthetic limbs, allowing her to walk again. In 2018, Russian veterinarian Sergei Gorshkov met a woman who had rescued Dymka from the snow, and he knew he had to help this brave little kitten. Today, Dymka is thriving and inspiring all those who learn about her remarkable journey.
Dymka was discovered tightly wrapped in the pristine snow, enduring a severe case of frostbite.
Dymka had unfortunately suffered from severe frostbite due to the harsh winter, which caused irreparable damage to all of its four limbs, ears, and tail. Sadly, there was no other option but to amputate the affected parts. In Novosibirsk, veterinary teams often deal with cats who have been affected by the cold weather. While it’s rare, there are cases where severe injuries result in amputations.
Fortunately, Dymka is one of the fortunate felines who was able to receive prosthetic limbs. A group of veterinarians teamed up with kx sự, a researcher from Tomsk Polytechnic University (TPU), in order to develop custom-made titanium prosthetic parts that could replace Dymka’s missing limbs.
In order to create these prosthetic parts, the researchers first used computed tomography (CT) scanning to scan Dymka’s existing limbs and turn them into a 3D model. From there, they utilized a 3D printer to fabricate the rest of the prosthetic pieces. The doctors also used calcium phosphate as a means of attachment in order to prevent rejection. This substance was able to bond the prosthetic limbs to Dymka’s leg bones through the oxidation process.
After seven months of having her prosthetic limbs installed, Dymka has made incredible progress in adapting to her new limbs. She is now able to walk, jump to a certain height, and even run.
Meet Dymka and Ryzhik, two of the world’s most remarkable felines who have become the first cats to receive prosthetic limbs. While Dymka may be making headlines now, she’s not the only cat to have undergone this surgery at the clinic. In fact, Ryzhik, a male cat with similar limb injuries, underwent a similar procedure back in 2016. Both cats have adapted well to their new paws and are now living happily. In fact, Dymka has been lucky enough to find a new home with the woman who discovered her and took her to the clinic.
