Support Peanut through Treatment of Rare Cancer

Hi, my name is Peanut and I’m an 11-year-old Tabby cat (turning 12 on August 5th!).

Some of my favorite hobbies include snuggling with Mom, chasing the mysterious red dot, watching Cat TV, making biscuits, and getting brushed. I love Greenies, Churrus, chicken, and raw eggs.

My mama’s name is Abigail “Abby" Johnson. She grew up in Hutchinson, Minnesota (both of our birthplaces!) and now resides with me here in beautiful Minneapolis! I'm not sure what exactly she does for a living, but I think it has something to do with money and computers. That warm tray with letters and numbers on it that she uses sure is cozy to sleep on though! In her (currently non-existent) free time, she enjoys practicing yoga, visiting thrift stores, collaging, and relaxing at the beach!

Mom says I've had her wrapped around my tiny little bean toe since before I even opened my eyes

I am a proud Emotional Support Animal and I take my role as an ESA very seriously, but now I need a little support myself

My Diagnosis

In May 2025, after many tests, a surgery, and second opinions, I was diagnosed with non-epitheliotropic lymphoma, a rare form of feline cancer that affects my skin and subcutaneous tissues. The cancer has spread across my abdomen, into my tail muscles, and even some abdominal lymph nodes. It’s aggressive and uncommon — but we’re giving it everything we’ve got.

After careful consultation with veterinary oncologists at both the University of Minnesota (UMN) and Animal Emergency & Referral Center (AERC), we have begun a full course of chemotherapy treatments at the UMN Veterinary Medical Center. Because my case is so complex and unique, our best hope for managing this disease is systemic chemotherapy.

We’re just taking it one day at a time and despite it all, I’m still purring, snuggling, and loving life.

The Costs

The total cost of treatment is estimated between $10,000–$13,000. Insurance should cover about 80% (up to $10k), but we are still facing around $2,500 out-of-pocket for treatment plus:

• Several thousands already spent on diagnostics, surgery, and care
• Monthly pet insurance premiums, medications, and special diet
• Travel to appointments
• Time off work and caregiver wellness support for Mom (like therapy, groceries, and gas)

We’ve set a fundraising goal of $5,000 to help cover past, current, and ongoing care. Every little bit helps more than you know.

How You Can Help

If you're in a place to contribute, thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Every donation — no matter the size — makes a difference. If you’re not able to give, please consider sharing this campaign in your circles and sending healing energy our way.

You can also follow along on Instagram: @peanut.mpls

Whether your loved ones talk, meow, bark, chirp, or squeak — hold them extra tight.

We feel your love, and we’re so grateful you’re here.

With Gratitude,

Peanut & Mom