Hi, for those who know me, you probably have met my cat Oliver (Ollie). I adopted Ollie when he was 3 months from the Nashville Human Association in 2021, and he has become an integral part of my family. Over the past few years, he has accompanied me through many difficult and exciting transitions in life - to the point where I can’t imagine what my day to day would look like without him. Yet, this past week has brought this fear too close to reality. Over the last few days Ollie started to act a bit abnormal, displaying semi-aggressive behavior and vocalizing his pain. After spending four hours in urgent care, we learned he developed a severe lower urinary tract blockage. The vet said he would need a $3000-$3600 procedure to unblock his urinary tract and save his life. Without this procedure, he will likely die in the matter of days.

I love Ollie and would do anything in my power to give him the best care. However, as a school teacher I simply can not currently afford it.

In the meantime, they provided a limited temporary intervention option which did not fix the underlying anatomical problem, but provided Oliver symptomatic relief within a price range I can afford. The vet emphasized that while momentary relief, this does not put Ollie in the clear and he still is considered high risk.

Despite this, I've witnessed moments of relief—Ollie has peed on my lap, on the floor, and in the litter box, bringing both relief and concern. But, again later this evening he experienced yet another partial reblockage, leading to another visit and vet bill. Once again the vet reiterated the importance of this surgery for Ollie. It breaks my heart to see him in pain. Amidst the chaos (yes, cat pee on my lap included), I'm reaching out for a lifeline this holiday season.

I appreciate you taking the time to read our story and for your support, whatever amount you can spare, to help keep Ollie on his paws.

Best,

Emily Fry