Help Ruffin Cover Tipsy's Medical Expenses

Hey all! We are raising funds to cover emergency medical expenses for my partner Ruffin’s beloved cat and long-time companion Tipsy. She spent two nights at the emergency veterinarian this week after collapsing and struggling to breathe on Monday night. After many tests, two days of oxygen therapy, and draining the fluid that had built up around her lungs, Tipsy was diagnosed with Restrictive Cardiomyopathy. This means she has heart disease, which is now being managed with medication. This is in addition to the kidney disease she already had (which is unfortunately common in older cats).

Tipsy is now happily home and will be closely monitored for the time being. She is not in any pain or discomfort, and her breathing is back to normal. At 17, it was a very difficult decision deciding whether or not to treat her. But ultimately, she has a strong appetite, is still quite mobile and relatively active, and still sets strong boundaries (i.e. swipes and tries to bite when she doesn’t like something).

While her health will likely slowly decline in the coming 6 months to a year, she still has quite a bit of fight in her. And she is not suffering now that she is properly medicated. The Pet Emergency of San Rafael did an amazing job taking care of her, and Ruffin and I are so grateful for the way they have cared for Tipsy this week.

We are looking to raise some money to cover some of the vet costs, some of which we paid for with a credit card, and some of which was very generously loaned to us by dear friends. Anything helps, and if you cannot contribute, please share!

Ruffin and I are beyond grateful for the support of our community.

Best,

Shannon (Ruffin’s fiancée)