'Cross-Eyed' Cat Looks Permanently Worried But Is Totally Normal
Say hello to this cute kitten with permanently worried eyes.
This cutie named Bum is becoming a bit of a celebrity for his adorable stare, which is actually from being born cross-eyed.
According to the American Optometric Association, crossed eyes, or strabismus, is a medical condition in which both eyes are unable to look at the same place at the same time. Normally, our eyes work together so they both point in the same place when we target our gaze on something; we count on the normal function of six muscles to do this. However, when problems develop with eye movement control, an eye may turn in, out, up or down, according to researchers.
Fortunately, there is nothing wrong with Bum, who was adopted by owner Courtney Morman from the San Diego Humane Society in 2014.
"He just has perpetually crossed eyes," Morman told ABC News. "His eyes and lids are also shaped a little funny, but other than that, he's totally fine. He's been seen by a vet and nothing is wrong with him."
She also commented on his "sharp vision" despite the issue--noting that he "loves to catch bugs and chase down toys," according to ABC News.
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