A Christmas Miracle for Lisa the Kitten
Donation protected
Meet my foster kitten Lisa, who is in need of a serious Christmas miracle.
I am a foster with Claws and Paws Rescue out of West Branch, MI.
Back story:
Lisa and her brother Bart were pulled from a barn a few weeks ago. When I got them into my care they were both underweight, covered in fleas and terrified. After a little patience and a good bath, I was able to examine them and noticed that Lisa seemed to be having some sort of rectal issue and was walking on her paws funny. Bart, her brother, also has a very notable deformity in his spine. The issue seems to currently affect Bart far less than it is affecting Lisa.
These kitties both have Manx Syndrome, which is a form of Spina Bifida in felines and can cause a variety of issues. The most recognizable trait of a Manx kitty is that they are born with no tail. This congenital defect is known for causing some neurological issues and could be affecting her GI system and causing her inability to walk correctly.
This week, Lisa had a procedure to correct a rectal prolapse and while she was sedated we were able to take some x-rays. After examining them, it is clear that the majority of Lisa's issues are likely related to the severe case of Kyphosis she has in her spine. We have not yet x-rayed Bart but are suspicious that he may also have Kyphosis, or an abnormal dorsal curvature of the spine.
Lisa's severely in-turned feet results in her to walk on her forearms causing bruising, open sores and some discomfort. We have tried splinting her arms to straighten them, but if the cause of her inability to walk properly is neurologic, splinting is only causing her stress and we want to avoid that.
What I'm asking:
We have exceeded the level of care that our local vet can provide and we have decided to consult with a neurologist out of the Detroit area. They have graciously waived their consult fee and discounted their diagnostics panel, but we still must come up with some funds to get her formally diagnosed and to get a treatment plan in place.
The estimate I received was anywhere from $2000-$3500. We will need to fundraise the entire amount before her appointment on 12/28.
The money raised will go towards initial diagnostics, creating a treatment plan and any aftercare. Any additional funds will go back towards the rescue I am partnered with.
Why I'm Asking:
I feel strongly that it's unfair to accept a mediocre quality of life for little Lisa as she is a remarkable kitten deserving of nothing but joy. She is sweet, bright and playful. I believe that her forever home is out there, but in order to find it I must understand what her life might look like long-term.
Seeking the professional advice of a Board-Certified Veterinary Neurologist is the best chance Lisa has at getting a solid care plan in place to live a happy life, no matter how long that may be.
If you feel compelled to donate, all proceeds will go directly to her care. I have been humbled again and again by the kindness people have in their hearts for the kittens I rescue, and I am so inspired by the kindness the world has shown her so far.
If you cannot donate, please share her story in hopes that I may be able to connect with someone who might be able to.
Thank you all from me and my sweet friends Lisa and Bart.
You can also find more about Lisa and Bart's story on TikTok, Instagram or Facebook.
Sources:
Manx Syndrome
Kyphosis
I am a foster with Claws and Paws Rescue out of West Branch, MI.
Back story:
Lisa and her brother Bart were pulled from a barn a few weeks ago. When I got them into my care they were both underweight, covered in fleas and terrified. After a little patience and a good bath, I was able to examine them and noticed that Lisa seemed to be having some sort of rectal issue and was walking on her paws funny. Bart, her brother, also has a very notable deformity in his spine. The issue seems to currently affect Bart far less than it is affecting Lisa.
These kitties both have Manx Syndrome, which is a form of Spina Bifida in felines and can cause a variety of issues. The most recognizable trait of a Manx kitty is that they are born with no tail. This congenital defect is known for causing some neurological issues and could be affecting her GI system and causing her inability to walk correctly.
This week, Lisa had a procedure to correct a rectal prolapse and while she was sedated we were able to take some x-rays. After examining them, it is clear that the majority of Lisa's issues are likely related to the severe case of Kyphosis she has in her spine. We have not yet x-rayed Bart but are suspicious that he may also have Kyphosis, or an abnormal dorsal curvature of the spine.
Lisa's severely in-turned feet results in her to walk on her forearms causing bruising, open sores and some discomfort. We have tried splinting her arms to straighten them, but if the cause of her inability to walk properly is neurologic, splinting is only causing her stress and we want to avoid that.
What I'm asking:
We have exceeded the level of care that our local vet can provide and we have decided to consult with a neurologist out of the Detroit area. They have graciously waived their consult fee and discounted their diagnostics panel, but we still must come up with some funds to get her formally diagnosed and to get a treatment plan in place.
The estimate I received was anywhere from $2000-$3500. We will need to fundraise the entire amount before her appointment on 12/28.
The money raised will go towards initial diagnostics, creating a treatment plan and any aftercare. Any additional funds will go back towards the rescue I am partnered with.
Why I'm Asking:
I feel strongly that it's unfair to accept a mediocre quality of life for little Lisa as she is a remarkable kitten deserving of nothing but joy. She is sweet, bright and playful. I believe that her forever home is out there, but in order to find it I must understand what her life might look like long-term.
Seeking the professional advice of a Board-Certified Veterinary Neurologist is the best chance Lisa has at getting a solid care plan in place to live a happy life, no matter how long that may be.
If you feel compelled to donate, all proceeds will go directly to her care. I have been humbled again and again by the kindness people have in their hearts for the kittens I rescue, and I am so inspired by the kindness the world has shown her so far.
If you cannot donate, please share her story in hopes that I may be able to connect with someone who might be able to.
Thank you all from me and my sweet friends Lisa and Bart.
You can also find more about Lisa and Bart's story on TikTok, Instagram or Facebook.
Sources:
Manx Syndrome
Kyphosis
Organizer
Anna Dickerson
Organizer
Roscommon, MI