Nico, my gentle giant of a cat, has always been a beloved member of our family. Four months ago, he was diagnosed with a urinary polyp, which we have been managing with alternative supplements. Over the past two weeks, however, Nico began to stumble and show signs of hind leg weakness. Last night, he suffered what we suspect was a cardiac event—crying out in pain, collapsing, and hyperventilating for several minutes. He remained on his side for 45 minutes with abnormal breathing and heart rate. It was terrifying to witness, and I knew he needed urgent help.

This morning, our veterinarian acted quickly. Blood work was sent out to determine if Nico is anemic or struggling to oxygenate his blood due to an underlying heart condition. He also had two radiographs, a quick ultrasound, and we are now waiting for an echocardiogram. We expect the results of the radiographs and bloodwork tomorrow, and once we have a date for the echo, we can move forward with a treatment plan. Nico’s heart muscle is thickened, his heart rate is elevated, he has arrhythmia, and his breathing remains abnormal. Without the echocardiogram, we cannot begin treating his heart condition.

Given last month's emergency visit with my other cat, Cole, and the costs of today’s diagnostics and the upcoming ultrasound, I am in need of help covering these recent expenses. I want to do everything possible to keep Nico happy and comfortable for as long as possible. He turns 16 on March 9th, and it would mean the world to us to celebrate that milestone together. Any support you can offer would be deeply appreciated by Nico, his fursiblings, and our entire family.