Bruce needs a neurology consult, imaging, labs, and surgery to diagnose and remove a lesion on his spine so that he can regain motor function in his left hind leg.

My name is Emily and I adopted Bruce when he was 8 months old from a local adoption center near my university. Bruce is named after the caped crusader, Batman, because that was my favorite superhero as a kid. However, Bruce has truly grown into the name and has become my hero. Bruce loves people and enjoys playing with his favorite blue feather toy, watching kitty TV on YouTube, and cuddling up for bedtime. Bruce is fascinated by the outside world and is often found surveying the backyard for birds and squirrels. He also has a little brother, Bean, whom he loves to chase around the house and give baths to. Bruce is my emotional support animal (ESA) and helps me battle my anxiety and depression. Bruce helps me every day, and now it is my turn to help him.

Bruce has had a small bump on his back since before I adopted him. This ailment was not disclosed or previously treated upon adoption. I was told that Bruce had previous owners and that he was given up. At the time, I couldn't imagine why. Now, I wonder if Bruce's condition was the reason why he was sent back to the shelter. Bruce is now 3 years old, and as he's gotten older, the bump has grown in size and has become increasingly painful. Bruce went from walking normally as a kitten, to favoring his left back leg, to now completely dragging it on the floor behind him. He can also no longer jump up onto higher structures like his favorite cat tree or beds. As his physical ability has decreased, so has his mood. As his back is very sensitive to touch, Bruce is aggressive and unlike his normal, loving self the majority of the time.

In May 2024, Bruce was prescribed a painkiller to be used when needed. However, his motor function has significantly depleted in the past week, and he needs more than a pill. Although veterinary services are expensive, I am hopeful that we can get Bruce the help he needs to live a long, happy, and healthy life.

Thank you for taking the time to read a little bit about Bruce's story! We are appreciative of any and all support you provide. Please share so that we can reach our goal and get Bruce healthy!