Save Zuko: Urgent Medical Care Needed

Hi, my name is Nataliaha, and I'm reaching out for help with my beloved cat, Zuko. He is only 4 years old and has always been full of life, love and a sweet personality. Before his injury, Zuko was one of the 3 heart beats of the household. I call him the personal house greeter because he warmly welcomes anyone and everyone who comes into our home as long as you have the time for pets, he is your new best friend. Prior to his injury he loved chasing his brother, rubbing on his sister, following me to the bathroom, and greeting me at the bedroom door every morning and demanding pets until he is satisfied. All that changed one morning when I noticed he didn't greet me at the door per usual. I assumed maybe he wanted some privacy, but by the time breakfast came he was nowhere in sight as he ensures he is the first to receive his meals. I searched the home and found him curled up, motionless, in the corner of the closet. I picked him up brought him to his food and after some time he finally moved severely wobbly, uncoordinated and dragging his back paws behind him. That same day I rushed him to the emergency vet. They performed radiology scans and give him pain medication for possible inflammation. I was hopeful the medications would help alongside monitored care. Over the next couple days, he stopped drinking water and laid on his blanket motionless and under the emergency vet's guidance I took him to a neurologist where they ran their own lab work and neurological exams. Zuko was noted to have abnormal posture, delayed rear limb movement, and neurological distress. He was admitted overnight for follow up exams and given fluids through an IV. So far, I have spent over $7000 out of pocket for Zuko's emergency room visit and his care at the neurologist. Unfortunately, I couldn't afford the full neurological workups they recommended. The neurologist explained that to move forward, Zuko would need an MRI, Spinal tap, and cerebrospinal fluid testing (CSF), and overnight care again all together that would total $7000. The tests are essential to identify the cause of his condition. It was stated that based on his symptoms he is likely suffering from a slipped disc. If that is confirmed he will require surgery that would cost $10,000. Zuko has been on pain management for the last 2 weeks with no clear signs of improvement. Zuko can no longer jump to his favorite spots like the windowsill or his cat tree for nap and misses the litter box due to how severely his coordination has been affected. He no longer allows me to pick him up without hissing in pain and is confined to a room to ensure his safety. Despite his visible pain, Zuko is still loving, purrs when he sees me, adores affection, and tries his best to remain who he once was. He is young and has so much life left to live. I'm asking for help to give him the chance to run, play and feel like himself in his body once again. Any donation or even sharing this will go directly to his medical testing and surgery. I'll also post updates so everyone who supports can follow his journey back to health.

Thank you for taking the time to read Zuko's story and for helping me fight for my best friend.

With love and gratitude,

Nataliaha & Zuko