His nine lives aren't up yet! Hughie the blind, deaf and autistic cat celebrates his 20th birthday after vets said he wouldn't live past the age of two
Hughie the blind, deaf and autistic cat has defied medical odds and lived to the ripe old age of 20, despite vets saying he wouldn't live past two.
Dubbed 'Australia's luckiest cat', Hughie the geriatric feline from Perth celebrated the end of his second decade on November 25 while surrounded by jovial family and friends.
The purebred Birman was chauffeured by pet ride share company Pawba from the home he shares with owners, sisters Judi and Janet, to his birthday celebration at the Perth Cat Hospital.
Hughie the geriatric feline from Perthturned 20 on November 25 while surrounded by jovial family and friends
Veterinarian Martine has known the beloved cat since he was two said she didn't think he would see his fifth birthday
Staff who have known him since he was a kitten sang happy birthday and presented the sightless feline with a chocolate cake.
The sisters bought Hughie for the bargain price of $50 due to a range of health issues, including a genetic vestibular disorder which affects his balance, when his siblings were sold for $1,500.
They each agreed the unconditional love they have for their pet has eclipsed the 20 years of vet costs needed to keep his many ailments at bay.
Veterinarian Martine has known the beloved cat since he was two said she didn't think he would see his fifth birthday.
Staff who have known him since he was a kitten sung Happy Birthday and presented the sightless feline with a chocolate cake. Left: Pawba owner Terry Butts with Hughie
She said his extraordinary lifespan is thanks to the love and care of Judi and Janet. Pictured: Hughie with his cake
'It's such a milestone,' she said.
'He's got balance problems, he's blind, he's deaf, he's always been quite little, and he's exceeded our expectations by a very long time and we're so proud of him.'
She said his extraordinary lifespan is thanks to the love and care of Judi and Janet.
Terry Butts, the founder and CEO of Pawba, said the beloved cat is his favourite customer.
'I've had the privilege of chauffeuring Hughie to and from the vet for the last four years and always go out of my way to ensure his journey is comfortable,' he said.
'I always feel so privileged to have such a beautiful boy on board ... This cat is the most dearest to my heart out of any animal.'