Hello! This cutie patootie is Sokka. I found him 2 years ago roaming the streets of Troutdale, Oregon, and decided to take him in. He's been my bestest bud ever since. He's been there for me through so much, and he truly is my best friend. I don't know what I would do without him.

Today, November 10th, I received news that has absolutely devastated me. Sokka, the sweetest guy around, has been diagnosed with a fatal disease at just the age of 3. He has Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP).

Here is some background on FIP: Coronavirus is very common in cats; about 80% of cats over the age of 2 have detectable coronavirus. It usually lies dormant and harmless for the entire duration of a cat's life. However, 5% of these cats will develop a mutation of the virus, which causes an intense immune response. This immune response is what FIP is. Symptoms can include inflammation of the eye, blindness, vomiting, seizures, paralysis, and other neurological symptoms.

Without treatment, FIP is 100% fatal. All cats with untreated FIP will eventually develop seizures and paralysis, eventually leading to death. The issue is the fact that the treatment is not FDA-approved and therefore extremely expensive. A full round of antivirals for one cat is $2,700.

I have already looked into other options: Taking out a credit line, financial resources in my area, and even surrendering Sokka to a shelter. I got denied for 3 separate credit lines, there are no financial resources available to me in Eugene, and shelters will not take him knowing he has an FIP diagnosis. His only 2 options are treatment from me or death.

Sokka means the absolute world to me. Anyone who has spent time with him knows how special he is. He is so sweet and kind. I have never seen him aggressive, angry, or territorial. He is just happy to be alive. He loves to be held like a newborn baby and just be involved with whatever someone is doing. He's so silly, often making my household laugh and laugh. He is a very vocal boy. Fun fact: before he was given a real name, we called him Alarm Cat because of how loud he is. I love that about him so much. He really means the world to me. We have seen each other through so much, and I'd hate to have to let him go so soon. I don't know how I'd make it these next few years of my life without my best friend.

I really appreciate you taking the time to read this. Donations of any size are appreciated beyond belief. Thank you so much.