This Christmas has brought heartbreaking news for our family. Our beloved kitty, Benson, suddenly became lethargic and stopped eating like his usual self about a week ago. Concerned, we took him to our regular vet, where bloodwork revealed he was suffering from severe, life-threatening anemia. The diagnosis was immune mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA), but the underlying cause was unclear. The vet recommended a blood transfusion, but due to the high cost and uncertain outcome, we initially tried steroids and antibiotics to suppress his immune response, hoping his body would start producing red blood cells again.

Throughout Christmas, we agonized over our decision, not wanting to give up hope if there was a chance to save Benson. Late on Christmas Day, we decided to take him to the emergency hospital for the transfusion. There, a full workup revealed that Benson is FeLV positive—a devastating surprise, as his adoption paperwork had shown a negative result (which we now know can be a false negative in kittens under six months). The emergency vet believes his anemia may be non-regenerative, meaning the transfusion may only buy us a little more time, but we’re holding onto hope until his next blood test.

We are not typically ones to reach out for help monetarily, but this year has been especially rough for us. We’re facing significant costs for further care, testing Benson’s sister and our other cat, and, if it comes to it, humane euthanasia. Any funds received will go directly toward Benson’s vet bills, emergency care, and the urgent needs of our other kitties. Your support would mean the world to us and help give Benson the best chance possible. Thank you for your kindness and compassion.