When Cookie’s teeth started falling out, she did what anyone in trouble would do – she tried to find help. The plucky, elderly stray sat on the sidewalk and meowed hopefully at Brooklyn passersby but though countless people flicked a glance at her tired face and half-shut eyes slitted in pain, no one stopped. Poor Cookie had no choice but to keep going, wandering the city streets day after agonizing day as the infection in her mouth spread and the pain worsened. Finally, she made her way to a house with a feral colony living in the yard. The caretaker there quickly saw the thin gray cat needed immediate medical attention. With no money to pay for urgent care, she reached out for help. And Neighborhood Cats answered her call.

We rushed Cookie to our veterinarian where she was diagnosed with an extreme case of periodontal disease. Most of her front teeth are already gone. Those that remain are nearly invisible, swallowed in the angry mass of swollen gums. She’ll need surgery to remove damaged tissue, clear away deep pockets of inflammation and extract teeth that cannot be repaired. She’s also battling anemia and a respiratory infection brought on by stress and prolonged neglect. Still, we need to move ahead with surgery as soon as possible, to arrest the deadly disease in her mouth and spare Cookie even more pain and suffering.

Cookie is about 12 years old. She’s been sad, battered and alone for too long - but with your support, better, brighter days can still lie ahead! Your donation, in any amount, will help cover costly dental surgery, hospitalization, laboratory tests, antibiotics, pain medications, and an extended recovery in a caring foster home. Join us – because together we can give this gentle senior the comfort and peace she deserves in her golden years. Please, make your gift to save sweet Cookie today.


Cookie is one of many special cats being helped by Neighborhood Cats. Any funds received in excess of Cookie's medical expenses will go towards saving other cats in need.