Cat has leg amputated by PDSA after mystery injury

Two-year-old Middlesbrough moggy, Tibbles, had to have his leg amputated by PDSA after vanishing for over a week and returning with a mystery injury.

Owner, Hollie Thompson (32), was frantic when he disappeared, and was overjoyed when he returned. But her joy turned to concern when she realised he was seriously injured: “Tibbles had been missing for over a week so when he walked in one morning I was so relieved,” said Hollie. “But then we noticed he was barely able to use his left front left leg. The kids were incredibly upset to see him in so much pain.”

“I rang a local vet but they estimated it could cost several thousand pounds depending on what treatment was needed. We just didn’t have that kind of money and, although our dog is insured, I hadn’t thought to insure the cat too – I didn’t think vet fees for cats would cost so much,” said Holly.

Hollie had heard of PDSA but didn’t think she’d be eligible as her husband works full time. But she rang the vet charity as she couldn’t bear to consider what the alternative might be. She was delighted to find out that, because they receive family tax credits, they were eligible for PDSA’s new concessionary service, which offers reduced cost vet care to people on a wide range of benefits.

Tibbles was taken straight into Middlesbrough PDSA Pet Hospital where tests revealed the extent of the damage. PDSA Head Nurse, Steph Williams, said: “We can’t be sure exactly what caused the injury, but Tibbles had suffered severe nerve damage to his leg. Sadly, this couldn’t be repaired and the only option was amputation.”

Just one day after the operation, Tibbles was well enough to come home. Hollie continued: “I’d not met a three-legged cat before so was anxious about how this would affect him – he’s always been a very active cat who enjoys his independence. I had to keep him indoors until his stitches healed, but I needn’t have worried about him adapting – he was back to normal in almost no time and flying up the stairs as usual.

“Tibbles still loves going outdoors and my son, Kodi, who has Downs Syndrome and didn’t used to go near him, now loves him! I’m so grateful to PDSA for their help – it cost us around £350 for the treatment, but without them I don’t know what we’d have done.”

PDSA is the UK’s leading veterinary charity, and provides affordable vet care to pets in need. Owners who receive Housing Benefit or Council Tax benefit are eligible to receive free vet care for their pet, while owners who receive other benefits can access treatment at a reduced cost.

For more information visit www.pdsa.org.uk or call 0800 731 2502.