2-Year-Old Amputee and Her Family Adopt Three-Legged Kitten

Matt and Simone Tipton, an Orange County couple, have a 2-year-old daughter who was born with a rare form of cancer that ultimately led to an amputation. Her story caught the attention of several local media outlets, which reached the Tipton family, who was looking for a kitty just like her.

The poor kitten was found bleeding with her paw dangling by two women in Perris, Calif., on December 17, according to a news release from San Jacinto Valley Animal Campus.

"Although the family could not take her home that day, the shelter employees told the Tiptons that Holly was all theirs - as soon as she fully recovered from the surgery", animal services said. "They specifically sought out a kitten that had to have an amputation surgery too". The first time Scarlette saw Holly, she pointed to the cat's missing limb and told her mom "owie", Facebook page.

Staff members believe the leg may have been mangled in the fan belt of a vehicle engine while the kitten was trying to stay warm.

Doc arrived at the San Jacinto Valley Animal Campus in Riverside County with a severely injured right front leg.

Movingly, she added: "When we were playing with the cat on the floor, Scarlette noticed it had staples on its side and a drainage tube sticking out, which she had to deal with as well, after her own amputation".

"She's actually the only one to ever have her exact type of cancer documented on earth", Simone Tipton said.

Her parents thought of something that could help: a friend going through the same thing, so Scarlette would know she's not alone.

A 2-year-old has formed an incredibly close bond with her new kitten, as they share one very special characteristic.

They learned about Holly by accident. On Christmas Eve, the Tiptons visited the kitten, who was still recovering from the amputee surgery.

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