We are a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit run entirely by volunteers.

Hi friends,

We recently shared Felix’s fundraiser - and while some have shown support, we’ve also received some critical comments: “Why help a cat when people are dying from war or cancer?” or “Is this serious - it's just dental work for a cat while kids are dying.”

We understand where this perspective comes from. But we want to explain why this matters - because it’s about more than just dental care.

Felix was surrendered when his owner had to enter hospice care. He didn’t end up abandoned on the streets - but only because we stepped in. He’s one of those heartbreak rescues - sweet, loving, highly adoptable - but he’s currently in pain, and until he gets the treatment he needs, we can’t find him a forever home.

As a small rescue, we try to help as many cats as we can. Emergencies, surrenders, abandoned kittens, abused cats - these situations are constant. But we can’t take on new cases if we can’t move cats like Felix through the system. Every cat must be vetted and treated before they’re eligible for adoption. If we delay, that spot stays filled, and more urgent cases go unaided.

Dental care may seem trivial, but for Felix, it’s serious. He has severe periodontal disease. Even a gentle touch makes him flinch. At his last vet visit, the doctor couldn’t even look in his mouth before Felix recoiled in pain. He likely needs multiple extractions, and also has a painful ear hematoma we’re closely monitoring.

His next appointment is July 3rd. The estimated cost for his care -including dental surgery, bloodwork, medication, ear treatment, vaccines, transport, and follow-ups - could reach $3,000–$3,500.

Right now, Felix is in a loving foster home, but we don’t know how long that will last. Our fosters are amazing, but we can’t pressure them indefinitely. We also can’t delay care, because the longer Felix waits, the more he suffers.

So while it may seem like "just a dental issue," for us, it’s about keeping our rescue running and giving cats like Felix a real second chance.

If you can, please consider donating - even a small amount helps. And if you can’t give, sharing Felix’s story is incredibly meaningful too.

If this fundraiser isn’t for you, we kindly ask that you scroll on by instead of commenting negatively.

Thank you for being part of this journey with us.

– The Cat Connections NYC Team