“It’s Just Adorable”: Cat with Unusual Gene Mutation Becomes an Internet Hit

Updated March 5, 2026 – 4:29 am

Reading time: 2 min.

A cat from Alabama is gaining viral fame thanks to a rare genetic mutation that gives him an extra set of ears. Dobby, a 7-month-old black cat, has captured the hearts of thousands online.

Meet Dobby

Dobby’s unique appearance is the result of a genetic anomaly that causes him to have four ears instead of the usual two. Stephanie Brown, a volunteer with Kitty Kat Haven and Rescue, and Dobby’s foster mother, explained to Newsweek that the extra ear flaps don’t affect his health or hearing.

Brown described Dobby as having a “wonderful temperament” and a particular fondness for children. She also noted he’s very trusting, curious, and playful, and has never once hissed.

A Second Chance at a Forever Home

Dobby was recently placed in rescue care after his previous family could no longer care for him. He initially struggled to adjust to life with another cat in his previous home, leading his family to seek assistance from Kitty Kat Haven & Rescue.

Currently, Dobby is thriving in foster care with Brown. While his online fame grows, the focus remains on preparing him for a permanent home. He will require minor corrective surgery for an overbite before he is ready for adoption.

A Rare Genetic Mutation

Veterinarians have told Brown that this genetic mutation is extremely rare, occurring in approximately one in a million cats. Kitty Kat Haven and Rescue confirmed this rarity, stating they haven’t encountered a similar case in the over 6,800 cats and kittens they’ve rescued since 2017.

Adoption Details

Once Dobby completes his medical care, he will need to be adopted by a family local to Kitty Kat Haven & Rescue in Hoover, Alabama, ideally one with young children.

Dobby’s story highlights the beauty and worth of animals with unique needs, as emphasized by Brown, who previously adopted a cat with cerebellar hypoplasia.