Help Us Get Answers for Theodore

I never imagined I’d be writing this, but here we are.

Over the past couple of months, Theodore’s health has declined in ways that have been scary and heartbreaking to witness. What started out as dandruff has developed into painful skin lesions covering his whole body, hair loss that falls off in chunks when he moves, chronic ear infections, inflammation, and clear extreme discomfort. All of which hasn’t responded to treatments. Despite numerous vet visits, medications, and normal bloodwork, thousands of dollars.... we still don’t have answers as to why this is happening.

We are now under the care of a specialist, and the next steps are critical.

What the specialist recommends

To properly diagnose Theodore and determine the right treatment plan, the specialist has recommended:

• A 4 site skin biopsy (performed under IV sedation) to determine whether his condition is autoimmune, infectious, or cancer-related

• A full-body CT scan (also under sedation) to evaluate internal causes that cannot be detected through bloodwork alone

Specifically, the CT scan is being used to look for possible thymoma or lymphoma, which can sometimes be associated with immune-mediated skin disease and other systemic symptoms.

These tests are necessary to move forward responsibly. Treating without a diagnosis could delay proper care or potentially make things worse which we feel has already happened considering how quickly he is declining.

Current estimated costs

• Full-body CT scan: quoted $4,550

(We are urgently trying to schedule this)

• Biopsy, sedation& pathology: quoted $1200

Follow-up care: additional costs will depend on findings

Why timing matters

If the CT scan shows evidence of thymoma or lymphoma, it would:

• Temporarily limit Theodore from flying, including planned travel to the East Coast for Christmas

• Potentially require surgical intervention, with average costs around $12,000 before other fees.

We are not at that stage yet, and we are taking this one step at a time. Right now, our focus is simply getting the diagnostic imaging needed to understand what’s happening and what comes next.

Asking for help is not easy for me. I’ve always tried to handle things on my own, but right now my priority is getting Theodore the answers and care he deserves.

Every donation will go directly toward diagnostic testing and medical care. If results indicate further treatment or surgery is needed, I will update this page transparently as we learn more.

If you’re unable to donate, sharing this page means just as much. The kindness, encouragement, and support during this uncertain time mean more than I can express.

Theos journey updates are daily on @a_cat_named_theo

Thank you for taking the time to read Theodore’s story and for helping us take the next step toward answers.

With endless gratitude,

Carrie