Hello, my name is Ella.

At 4am this morning, I was woken by Raku the cat - who can't meow - trying to communicate his pain.

He was terrified, dragging his body, covered in feces, bleeding from his leg and head. The pain had him shaking and shallow breathing. He may have been hit by a car, we're not yet sure. He must have crawled home with broken bones.

He's now in urgent care, receiving treatment and waiting amputation surgery. I didn't realise his healthcare package doesn't cover emergency care and so I've been charged £1300 this morning and told the total cost may exceed over £4000 by this evening. I'm paying for his life-saving treatment but this is difficult and unexpected and has a big impact on my financial stability.

If you've ever been lucky to love a cat, you'll understand what Raku's life means.

Anyone who knows him feels his light. He lives life with a brightness that gathers people, and softens strangers into friends.

He moves towards sounds and crowds, turns up at neighbours' parties and falls asleep on their guests laps while the music plays into the night.

He climbs onto shoulders, curls onto chests (even when you're in the bath), sleeps on pillows and wakes loved ones with his face against theirs - his love is loud, even without a sound.

Every day, he teaches me how simple it is to love. He is a deeply cherished friend.

If you're able to help, I would be grateful beyond words. For the people who support us during this uncertain time, we hope to celebrate Raku's first birthday and recovery with you (perhaps Raku-style, together, enjoying play and food in our garden).

Ella & Raku