We need your help to support Leo Messi

Hi! Thank you for taking the time to read about our little warrior Leo...

Many of you know Leo, the emaciated kitten that I fostered for Kitten Rescue and provided him with care and love until he fully recovered and got adopted.

On Monday 12/9 Leo saw an internal medicine specialist for his chronic congestion. The doctor conducted testing and found his lungs were filled with fluid. They drained as much fluid as possible.

The fluid results tested positive for pyothorax, with raw bacteria found on the inside of the cells which is life threatening. Further imagining showed a potential collapsed lung lobe. He immediately started antibiotics.

To save his life, Leo needs a very delicate and costly surgery. He will go under anesthesia and have a CT scan which will provide the surgeon with 3D imaging of his lungs. A thoracotomy will be conducted to flush out the pyothorax from his lungs, and a potential lobectomy on the top right side of lung (removing the lobe). The tissue will be sent for biopsy to determine potential underlying causes of the infection.

Leo will stay in the hospital an estimated 3 days with a chest tube to drain any additional fluid, in recovery.

The success rate of the surgery is high. We are hopeful Leo Messi will come out winning and stronger than ever with a big, bright future ahead of him.

In addition to the specialized surgery, his recovery will involve costs for medication and aftercare. To date, his adopter has spent almost 5K on vet visits, tests, and other costs related to his symptom management.

Donations are greatly appreciated and will go directly to his adopter. Any contribution, no matter the size, will make a meaningful difference and is truly appreciated.

Please help us save Leo, he deserves a second chance. We love him so much. ❤️