Help Stitch Get a Diagnosis and a Chance at Treatment

Hi everyone,

I’m reaching out to ask for help for my beloved cat, Stitch. He’s almost 12 years old, but aside from what we’re facing now, he is remarkably healthy—his blood work is excellent, he has no joint issues, and he’s still happy, affectionate, and very much himself.

Recently, a large mass was discovered near Stitch’s anus. Initially, it was thought to be an anal gland abscess, but it never drained. A biopsy was inconclusive and showed abnormal lipoma-type tissue, raising concern that this may be something more serious. At this point, we don’t know if the mass is benign, a locally invasive cancer, or a malignant tumor—and that uncertainty makes it impossible to know how to help him without further testing.

A veterinarian has now recommended an exploratory surgery to obtain a proper tissue sample so we can finally determine exactly what this mass is, whether it has spread, and whether it can be safely treated or removed. The estimated cost for this procedure is $2,500–$3,000, which includes anesthesia, surgery, and necessary care.

The mass has continued to grow and is now pressing on Stitch’s rectum and colon, making it increasingly difficult for him to pass stool. Gastrointestinal obstruction can become life-threatening, and there is real concern that without intervention, this mass could eventually block his GI tract. Even partial removal or debulking of the mass during surgery could relieve this pressure, improve his comfort, and potentially extend his life—especially if the mass turns out to be benign or only locally invasive.

Despite everything, Stitch remains bright, loving, and full of life, which makes this so hard. He’s not ready to give up—and I’m not ready to give up on him without at least giving him the chance to be properly diagnosed.

I recently began residency and became a single mother to my infant just three months ago. While I’m doing everything I can to provide for my child, my financial resources are extremely limited right now, and I simply cannot afford this surgery on my own.

All I’m asking for is the chance to get clear answers so I can make informed, compassionate decisions for Stitch—whether that means treatment, surgery, or knowing when to let him go peacefully. Any donation, share, or kind thought truly makes a difference and brings us closer to that goal.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for supporting Stitch and our little family. ❤️