We adopted Cass from a shelter in 2018. Her previous family surrendered her for unspecified reasons. She was malnourished and dirty, weighing only 3.3 pounds and her fur matted in thick clumps. It was love at first sight. She is very cuddly, with the playful spirit of a kitten. Life hasn't been the kindest to her, but she loves everyone (human or animal) fiercely.

This past year has been especially challenging for Cass. In March, she battled a nasty cold that had us feeding her by syringe for 6 weeks. She lost over 2 pounds of hard-gained weight during that time. Just when we thought we had resolved her illness, we discovered her ear infection. After months of specialized diet, medications, diagnostic testing, and specialist consults, the costs have added up. An echocardiogram was $1,000, CT scan was $920, hundreds per consult and follow-up visit, plus antibiotics, antifungals, steroids, etc. We finally know what the definitive recommended treatment is: TECA-LBO. It will cost $7,000 to upwards of $9,000, since the vets are unable to determine what is causing the obstruction in her ear until they operate.

Despite all of this, Cass has relatively remained her "normal" self. Since cats are masters of disguise, we aren't sure how much she's suffering from her ear infection. But we know we need to get her this treatment so the infection doesn't spread and potentially lead to even more invasive treatment. Cass is so important to us, she is our fish-loving fluff ball. Please help us afford the surgery she needs; any amount will make a difference.