Otto was born on Christmas Day 2017. His parents were rescued ferals, too young and ill themselves to look after their family. Despite his shaky start, he grew into a confident, sociable personality. He preferred riding on our shoulders on our shopping trips. Harassed commuters would stop and chat. Frowns were transformed into smiles. Otto is a loving soul. He'd instinctively settle next to anyone in need of a cuddle: the elderly, the homeless, children and the busy business professionals. He truly is a People's Cat!

We considered raising him as an emotional support therapy cat but our funds are limited or instead, we were considering finding him a lovely home in the countryside.

Then the unimaginable happened. Suddenly, inexplicably, he flopped over 5 days ago,lost control of his movements, and became paralysed. His mind is very much alert. He desperately needs a scan to find out the cause.

The vets thought he was unable to eat or drink by himself. But he was just very depressed. We visited Otto today at the animal hospital, thinking we had no choice left but to sign the euthanasia form - because he is so very sick and we can't afford the medical care. However, when Otto saw us, he cheered up: started to purr, eat and drink! He managed to move his legs and arms and head. He drank his gravy too.

When the vet returned, ready to put poor Otto down we said, “No, LOOK at the video. He is EATING. DRINKING. Purring and winking!”

Otto may be tiny but he has a strong will. He WANTS to LIVE!

So his vet, at the animal hospital decided to give him another chance IF we can raise the medical fees for this little 7 month old kitten. And that's a big 'if'.

The only chance for survival is figuring out what's wrong. The blood tests were all clear. At first, they thought it was a brain injury. Then FIP. A brain scan is the only way forward BUT it costs £2000 and that doesn't include his daily care, accommodation and medication.