A couple in Kamloops, British Columbia, utilized 3D printing technology to create a feeding stand for a foster kitten with a unique medical issue. Piglet, a five-month-old kitten under the care of Angela and Jason Lyall, struggled to eat properly since she was two days old. Despite being a bottle-fed kitten, Piglet couldn’t suckle effectively, leading to stunted growth compared to her littermates.
Initially perceived as lethargic, Piglet’s health deteriorated, resulting in pneumonia. Following veterinary examinations, it was revealed that she likely had megaesophagus, a condition affecting the food passage to the stomach. To address this, the couple designed and 3D printed a vertical feeding stand based on a free online template. The customized stand allowed Piglet to consume food without the risk of regurgitation, preventing potential inhalation into her lungs.
The couple’s innovation gained attention after a video showcasing Piglet’s feeder went viral on social media, amassing over a million views. Angela emphasized the educational value of Piglet’s story, highlighting the rarity of megaesophagus in cats compared to dogs, which can use specialized devices like Bailey chairs for feeding assistance. The adaptable nature of the vertical feeding stand enables adjustments as Piglet continues to grow.
Angela shared that Piglet requires five feedings daily, followed by a 15-minute upright posture to aid digestion—a task requiring collective family support. Despite moments of uncertainty about Piglet’s survival, Angela expressed gratitude for witnessing her remarkable progress, emphasizing the kitten’s resilience and the family’s unwavering commitment to her well-being.