A three-month old tabby kitten with severe burns on his nose, paws and tail is on the path to recovery at a local animal center.
The kitty, now named Phoenix, was burned by caustic chemicals and left at a Los Angeles shelter last Monday, according to a spokesperson with the Helen Woodward Animal Center, where the kitten is being cared for now.
He was transferred to the Helen Woodward Animal Center in San Diego on Wednesday with swollen front paws and a damaged tail, face and ears.
"[Phoenix] has been treating staff members to gentle nuzzles and soft purrs," read a statement from the center. "In fact, despite his amputated tail, struggle to walk and newly heavy-laden front-feet bandages, he even attempts to lovingly knead on the arms and chests of his new-found friends."
Staff at the center said they named the kitten Phoenix because he "rose from the ashes" and had a resilient and warm spirit.
The center does not know whether the chemicals were purposely poured on the kitten or not.
Veterinarians say Phoenix has a long path to recovery but is thriving under their care and will be closely monitored.
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He'll be available for adoption in the next month or so. Adoption information can be found on the center's website.
