This is the story of Vituzzo, also called Vito, an orange tabby cat, who enjoyed a quiet life with Silvia Gottardi and Linda Ronzoni, his human companions. However, his life was turned upside down due to a traffic accident. While Gottardi and Ronzoni were traveling, a car hit him and crushed both of his hind legs. His life was in danger. The suggestion of euthanizing him loomed over Vito’s human companions, but a veterinarian offered them an unusual solution: outfitting the cat with bionic prostheses.
At first, the adaptation was a challenge for both the feline and his human companions, but over time Vito became accustomed to his new limbs to the point that it seemed he never lost them. Today, he enjoys a full life as Italy’s first “bionic” cat, and has his own social networks, managed by Gottardi and Ronzoni.
Vito’s story has moved thousands and on social media many people have reacted to it: “What can I study to make prosthetics for bionic kittens,” asked a TikTok user. “That I can study to make prosthetics for bionic kittens,” added another Internet user.
“I love you bionic kitten,” confessed one user. “Think that these animal prostheses are easier to make and there is no risk of rejection due to the use of the materials used,” said one Internet user.
Vito was a stray cat born in the town of San Vito Lo Capo in Sicily, Italy. After being rescued by a family in Riva del Garda, he was temporarily transferred to Milan with Silvia and Linda, according to local media Radiobau.
The impact of Vituzzo’s story has transcended borders, generating reflections on the love and care of animals, as well as on the possibilities of science and technology in the veterinary field.
