From Stray to Safe: Help Nacho Get the Surgery He Needs

Hello, animal lovers and friends,

I’m reaching out today because of a sweet stray cat named Nacho who came into our lives at just the right time. About six months after we lost our beloved Tater, Nacho, an orange-and-white cat, showed up at our house. Since then, we’ve been feeding him regularly and providing outdoor heated shelters and a heated water dish. We’ve tried to find his owners through social media, but no one claimed him. He’s not chipped either, so for over a year now, we’ve been looking after him.

As the weather is beginning to turn here in Minnesota, we wanted to ensure Nacho was healthy, especially since we have two very special and amazing indoor cats, Rambo and Hercules. Earlier this week, we took Nacho to the vet for a full check-up, which cost $394.81, to make sure he wasn’t carrying anything dangerous to our boys. While we were waiting for the results, Nacho returned to the garage to recover but wanted to be let back outside. We hadn't seen him since then…until this morning.

Nacho came back today, and it broke our hearts. He was in rough shape—bloody nose, drooling, and struggling to breathe with his mouth open. We rushed him to the emergency vet, and they believe he suffered injuries consistent with “high-rise syndrome,” meaning he likely fell from a significant height (2+ stories). He has a fractured palate, which requires a rare specialty surgery.

We’ve already paid $3,853.79 up front for his emergency care, which includes his initial exam, fluids, full-body X-rays, pain medication, and 24-hour ICU care. But the costs could go up to $5,300—and that doesn’t even cover the surgery he needs to repair his fractured palate.

We’ve always been hesitant to ask for financial help, especially knowing how tough times are for many. But we’re at a loss for what to do. Nacho is such a sweet and good-natured cat, and he deserves a chance to heal and live a long, happy life. Anyone who knows us knows how much we care for animals, especially cats, and every life is worthwhile.

If you are able to contribute, no matter the amount, we would be forever grateful for your help in getting Nacho the medical care he desperately needs.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.