In February of this year, I noticed my cat Avery's gums were bleeding and that his fang, in particular, looked like the enamel was peeling/breaking off. I immediately scheduled an appointment for him at the Bridge Clinic to be evaluated for dental issues. Turns out, he is suffering from Tooth Resorption. This creates painful lesions along the gum line as his own immune system and cells break down and absorb the tooth structure. This is a progressive and irreversible process which has affected many of his teeth, causing significant pain, inflammation, and tooth loss.

Cats hide pain well, and while he has likely been dealing with some dental pain for a while, his behavior and eating habits have changed, so he is absolutely in more pain. He has been having difficulty eating, is spending more time hiding, and isn't playing with toys as much anymore. The only way to help him find relief is to undergo dental and tooth extractions. He will likely have nearly all of his teeth removed, but he will be MUCH happier after when the pain is gone.

His surgery is currently scheduled for the end of April. I am excited for him to return to his playful, cuddly self but am financially strapped and really struggling to afford the procedure. Dental for pets is notoriously expensive and even though his procedure is through a lower-cost clinic, the estimate provided is still upwards of $1200.

After being laid off from my job of 13 years this past fall and trying to figure out my future while the cost of literally everything gets higher and higher, I feel like I have few other options than to ask for help.

I understand that times are difficult for many of us, but if you could spare any donation amount, even as small as $5, I would be so grateful. Thank you.