Growing up, I had always thought of myself as a "dog person". That was until 2021, when Romeo came into my life, a tiny fluffy Persian/Himalayan kitten. Little did I know that this would be the start of the most bonded, affectionate and loving relationship I could have imagined. From that day I committed myself to provide him with the most love, care and protection possible.

Fast forward to 4 years later: Romeo has grown into his big personality, strutting around the house with his RBF - Although do not be deceived, he is just looking for some pets and a lap to sit on. Every day when I come home from work, he immediately rolls on his back awaiting belly rubs. He's a big cuddler, a social butterfly, and unquestionably the life of the party.

Unfortunately, Romeo was diagnosed with a bladder disease a couple years ago, but at the time symptoms were minimal and manageable. Over the past few months, he began having more frequent accidents outside the litter box, however the doctors informed me this was normal given his disease. Two weeks ago, these symptoms worsened significantly. He began straining in and out of his litter box, vomiting multiple times a week, barely eating or drinking, and acting lethargic, uncomfortable and anxious. These extreme, abnormal signs led me to take him to the hospital immediately, where he spent a week under emergency care. After running various tests, the doctors found that he had developed multiple stones in his bladder that led to urethral obstruction, at which point a cat only has 1-2 days to live. The only viable option was to undergo life-saving surgery.

I'm currently waiting for him to come home from the hospital and begin the 2+ week long recovery process. Knowing him, I believe he will come out of this stronger than ever. I've spent countless nights hoping and praying for his pain to be relieved so his bright personality can shine again.

I am not one to ask for help - but several people have asked if there is a way that they can support, and suggested for me to start a GoFundMe. His vet bills from this week will be around $15k, and his insurance will not approve this claim since it is due to a pre-existing condition. While my utmost priority through this has been Romeo’s wellbeing at any cost, the financial stress is a lot.

If you would like to and are able to donate to support his medical care, anything helps. I cannot express enough gratitude for all my family and friends who have been here for me during this time.

With love,

Livy