When Otitis the cat developed Otitis externa, a condition that caused him to develop large cysts on his ears, his original guardians left the condition without medical attention, and unfortunately, when it got to the point that it was untreatable, they could not afford surgery to remove the poor feline’s ears. Sadly this led to Otitis being surrendered to Feline Rescue Association of Baltimore, but good news soon came! The rescue organization was able to get the surgery Otitis needed and set out finding this sweet cat a forever home. And find the perfect forever home he did!

Over a year ago Molly Lichtenwalner suffered from a serious car accident, leaving her with severe anxiety. Knowing how therapeutic animals can be, Molly went on Petfinder.com to find a companion. Molly found Otitis’ listing, adopted the sweet kitty and helped him become an Instagram celebrity.

With over 17,000 followers on Instagram, people just can’t handle all the greatness that is Otitis. 

The cuteness is a bit much to handle, tbh. 

Look. At. That. Face. 

Otitis lost some of his hearing because of the surgery but Molly explained in an interview with People that he is doing just fine.  She also noted that he saved her from her anxiety. 

Just like any cat, Otitis loves to play in bags, boxes, and of course, he enjoys trying to get the evil laser monster.

“Mom! Please! Some privacy here…” Not only is Otitus adorable, he also quite sassy. 

Keep on doing you, Otitis! 

Molly started the Instagram page to show off Otitis’ unique look, hoping it would inspire others to give homes to traditionally less adoptable animals. But Molly and Otitis haven’t stopped there. The duo is on a mission to raise awareness about special needs animals. Molly and her roommate, both of whom are speech therapists, are creating a children’s book about Otitis and his journey in the hopes that others will learn to embrace their own differences.

There are thousands of deserving cats waiting for their forever homes at a shelter near you. Every year, six to eight million dogs and cats find themselves tenants of animal shelters with 2.7 million being put down, approximately 70 percent of the euthanized animals are cats. Many of these marked cats are healthy and adoptable.

Choosing to adopt rather than shop for a new pet helps to reduce the homeless pet population and can help free up more space in a shelter for other animals who desperately need it.

To follow Otitis on all of his adorable adventures, be sure to follow him on Instagram!

Image source: Adventures of Otitis/Instagram