This story was shared by our shelter friend The Cat House on the Kings. The Cat House on the Kings saves pets’ lives in the Fresno County, California area, and the Animal Rescue Site is proud to share their stories. You can learn more about their work here!

How could a tiny kitten that only weighs a mere 1.3 pounds have such a salacious story about his battle for a healthy life? Well, it begins with him and his siblings being taken away from their mom too early so that they didn't get all that they needed from her.

PHOTO: THE CAT HOUSE ON THE KINGS

When kittens lose or are removed from their mom, they not only lose their nutrition that she would have supplied, they lose their comfort practice of nursing, and they miss their mom's bite inhibition training. This litter deprived of mom's growth support ended up creating a serious health issue for Benjamin Buttons.

Tiny Benjamin Buttons has three siblings that in lieu of nursing on mom, began nursing on Benjamin Buttons' penis. This can create a wince or a giggle when you hear the story, but what was created for Ben was a lot of pain and scar tissue. It is very dangerous for anybody to not be able to eliminate waste.

PHOTO: THE CAT HOUSE ON THE KINGS

Suffering, tiny Benjamin Buttons had to be separated from his siblings and taken to the veterinarian, where he had to endure trying a catheter to help him urinate, get shots and take medications. Please remember this is a very wee lad and only just a bit over 1 pound.

Our dear Benjamin Buttons will have to continue to receive medical care, including laser treatments and treatments that no one would want to share about with others. We are very happy to report that he is a trooper and he is patient with his treatments and seems to know that everything being done to him is to help him.

PHOTO: THE CAT HOUSE ON THE KINGS

He has had a reduction in his swelling, and he is continuing to put litter to good use. This is a slow recovery injury, especially for a little growing body, so he will need much more medical care. It will be thrilling to see Benjamin Buttons develop into the age of adoption, our hearts are shining brightly for him. We need more positive energy, light and support for this minikin champion.

Through Greater Good Charities' Emergency Animal Medical fund, which provides grants to shelters to cover life-saving medical care, a fundraiser has been launched to raise $5,000 for Benjamin's treatment. If you'd like to help, click below!

This story was submitted by our shelter friend The Cat House on the Kings in Fresno County, California. Learn more about them here!