Penny joined the League's Sponsor Program in 2007. Penny is an exceptionally sweet cat. A gorgeous, grey feline, she is very playful, often goofy, and always affectionate. Penny first came to us as a tiny infant weighing only 14 ounces. Chances of survival are slim for such a young kitten without her mother. But the amazing staff at the League's Medical Center saved her little life with around the clock treatment and expertise. When Penny was three months old, she was adopted.

Just one month later, however, her owner decided to return her when it became apparent that she had a medical condition. Penny was back in our care. North Shore Animal League America's veterinarians diagnosed Penny with ringworm, which was resolved, and the more serious acute renal dysplasia or renal failure. Renal failure is a condition where the kidneys fail to function properly. It is not uncommon for a cat to have this condition and not show any symptoms. Then all of a sudden, what may seem like out of nowhere, symptoms appear. Renal failure is a life-threatening disease, however, with proper treatment; a cat can still enjoy a good quality of life. Penny has to have a treatment of subcutaneous fluids once a day to help her kidneys function normally. Without this treatment, she will die. At some point, she will probably go on a special kidney-friendly diet, too. Penny has her whole life ahead of her. She is an amazingly friendly cat with a warm and loving disposition.