Baloo's dental bill
Donation protected
Recently my 10 year old cat Baloo was diagnosed with Feline Chronic Gingivostomatitis (FCGS) - a gum inflammation disease, which effectively causes him to have an autoimmune reaction to his own teeth. While not life-threatening, this diagnosis causes him severe pain if untreated, especially while eating.
The only treatment for this is for Baloo's teeth to be fully taken out so that his inflammation can go down. My vets do not feel that this can be done in general practice so we have been referred to a specialist dental hospital in Haddington, Scotland, which is best suited for this but is, unfortunately, much more expensive.
Baloo is insured, however insurance cover for dental issues is complicated. I am currently in the process of negotiating with my insurance company and trying to find out whether they can cover at least part of his treatment, but ideally I would like to schedule him in for the first stage as soon as possible as he can only be on his medication for a certain amount of time before it stops being effective in fighting the infection.
The estimates for both stages of the treatment are:
- Stage one: complete oral assessment, full work up, dental radiographs and initiation of elective cheek teeth extraction. Total cost: £2,548.48
- Stage two: any required dental radiographs and conclusion of elective cheek teeth extractions. Total cost: £1,738.95
Total treatment cost: £4,287.43
As all cases of FCGS are unique, the hospital cannot commit to those estimates as of yet and there is a possibility they may be higher as he is put under general anaesthetic to go into surgery. The remainder of this fundraiser will be used to cover my transport costs to and from Haddington for all procedures, any follow-up costs relating to treatment and any processing fees from the fundraiser. If there is any remainder (or if insurance does end up covering some of the cost) it will be donated to the Edinburgh Cat Protection League, the shelter Baloo was adopted from five years ago.
Those of you who have met Baloo or seen photos of him online know that he's the gentlest, kindest cat, who loves human company, his toy string and his treats. I want nothing more than to see him live out his old age free of pain. Those of you who have met me know how much he means to me. He is my family and I'm determined to get him the best possible care. It's the least I can do for all his love and his unwavering company that I've been lucky to have for the last half decade.
Any donations are much appreciated, as is the sharing of this fundraiser.
With many sincere thanks
Toni and Baloo
Organizer
Toni V
Organizer
