If you take a look at this cat named Francis, you’ll probably think, “That’s the cutest kitten I’ve ever seen in my entire life.”

Well, prepare to be pleasantly surprised, for this forever kitten-looking fellow is, in fact, a 13-year-old cat with dwarfism. 

When I first laid eyes on Francis, I was equally astounded, but once I learned his story, everything became clear.

It all started when construction workers found Francis as a tiny kitten on their job site. 

Upon hearing about this precious fur baby, a nice, cat-loving family decided to adopt the kitten and name him Francis. Melina Avane, the daughter, couldn’t believe just how endearing that little kitten was. She recalled:

“He was as big as my fist then. My parents have taken care of him since that day.”

However, little did the family know what lay ahead. As time passed, everyone expected Francis to grow into a large, robust, and healthy feline, but that simply didn’t happen… 

@francisandmaggie Outdoor Francis 🥰 #cat #cats #catsoftiktok #catlover #cattok #catvideo #catvideosontiktok #catvideos #viralvideo #trending #tiktok #fypシ #fyp #fypシ゚viral #foryoupage #funnycats #funnycat #love #francisthecat #tiktokdeutschland #katze #katzen #uk #germany ♬ original sound – melinaavane

It was as though he stopped growing at all or was destined to remain a ‘forever kitten.’ Being confused, the family took Francis to the vet, where they discovered something shocking…

The vets diagnosed Francis with dwarfism, a condition caused by rare genetic defects that lead to the development of disproportionate and undersized mature cats.

To make matters worse, the vets gave Francis a maximum life expectancy of only 6 years. But guess who proved those veterinarians wrong? Of course, it was Francis himself. Melina said:

“He’s not a special breed. He’s a regular cat with a genetic disorder. That’s why he stopped growing. But, otherwise, he is perfectly healthy. He’s just small.”

Today, Francis is a 13-year-old, happy, and healthy cat who looks like a forever kitten, crushing the internet with his cuteness overload, and stealing people’s hearts.

Here are more photos of Francis next to random objects, including more facts about this incredibly cute feline.

Francis may be small, but that’s only in his size. When it comes to his personality, he’s the boss. Melina said:

“My parents have many rescued animals at home, but Francis is the boss, and he knows that. He doesn’t show any fear of the big dogs and loves to cuddle with them.”

For most of his life, Francis was a very playful cat, never letting dwarfism stop him from living his best life. However, no one can stop the years from doing what they have to do. 

Therefore, Francis slowed down a bit due to his age, but he still knows how to enjoy life. He just wants to eat, sleep, and cuddle.

The most important thing is that Francis’ condition doesn’t cause him pain. He is in perfect health, and it’s his distinctive appearance that makes him wonderfully unique.

People all over social media are crazy about him, sharing a lot of loving and supporting comments.

“Not to be dramatic, but I would die for Francis.”

“He’s the most beautiful thing in this world.”

“How do you even deal with having him? I would have zero productivity and just walk around all day with him in my arms and kissing his tiny face.”

Well, I couldn’t agree more with the last comment. I have no idea how Francis’ family manages to do everything properly with such an adorable little creature by their side.

Besides his good health and unique appearance, the most important thing is that Francis is one happy kitty, who has no idea he’s different at all!

If this forever kitten has captured your heart as well, then I’m sure you’d love to keep up with Francis and his daily adventures.

Finally, if my guess is correct, then be sure to follow him on Instagram and TikTok, and bask in a daily dose of Francis!