a day ago
Tears at How Cat With Two Legs Proves Sceptics Wrong: 'Better Without Them'
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
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A fearless two-legged cat is capturing hearts across the internet after a video showcasing his impressive jumping skills went viral on Instagram.
Shared by his owner, who goes by @ the clip has racked up over 1.6 million likes and countless comments cheering on Rocket, the determined feline.
"I tell them 'I have a cat that only has two legs'. 'oh so he need wheels?', Holy fluffin airball," the video begins, with text overlaying a shot of Rocket launching himself from a shelf and landing gracefully on his front paws.
The video then transitions into a montage of Rocket jumping from various surfaces—bookshelves, counters, and more—demonstrating incredible strength and coordination.
It finishes with a clip from his kitten days, where he clings to a chair and drags himself around it, paired with the caption: "He never needed wheels."
"Holy fluffin airball - no he needs no wheels. Rocket can do it better without them," the owner added in the caption.
While the video doesn't go into Rocket's medical history or explain why he only has two front legs, two-legged cats can thrive with the right care and support.
In some cases, cats are born with congenital conditions such as Swimmer Syndrome, which affects limb development. Other times, amputation is required due to injury or illness. Regardless of the cause, many cats adapt remarkably well.
According to Forest Vets, amputee cats can lead full and happy lives once they adjust to their new way of moving. Cats have a strong instinct to adapt to their physical limitations and often show great resilience. With some modifications to their environment—such as ramps or soft landings—they continue to climb, play, and explore.
The Cats Protection charity also emphasizes that disabled cats still enjoy toys, affection, and exploration just like any other cat. Owners are encouraged to provide enrichment and monitor their feline friend's comfort, but there's no need to feel sorry—many disabled cats don't know they're "different" at all.
A stock image showing a cat leaping.
A stock image showing a cat leaping.
Anmfoto/iStock / Getty Images Plus
Instagram users were quick to show their admiration for Rocket.
"Have you told HIM he only has two legs??" asked Rayne.
"Disability? Yeah, I got dis ability to go wherever tf I want," quipped another user.
"Give him a little kiss on his forehead and tell him 'a random stranger on the internet is so proud of you and sent u a lot of love'," shared another impressed cat lover.
"Bro's an amazing calisthenics athlete," added another user.
"That core! That upper body strength! He is fitness goals," said another viewer.
"I love this about animals. They're not sad about this kind of thing. They live, learn, and adapt," said another viewer.
Newsweek reached out to @ for comment via Instagram. We could not verify the details of the case.
Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@ with some details about your best friend and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.
