Archie Cat's message board from his friends in need

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Posted by "charlotte" (charlotte dot cotd at gmail dot com) [1 week ago]

Just quick up date, Matt had the vets and is off the meds!!! He was quite the celeb when he went in with nurses, vets and reception staff coming through to see him!! All three cats are happy to sleep in the same room now! Yay! Matt figured out how to make Tinker stay out from under the bed....by taking her spot under it!! Will up date his blog tomorrow! Barb, I would't worry about Tilly...she looks one smart cookie :) night all x

Posted by "charlotte" (charlotte dot cotd at gmail dot com) [1 week ago]

Posted by "Barb" (campbell dot 64 at hotmail dot co dot uk) [1 week ago]

Hi everyone

Good to hear about your furball Mur Meli, i can remember your first post, i think all our hearts were in our mouths.

Chris, I was wondering if you could have a gallery on your site for us to post piccies of our babies for others to see how well they are doing. Just a thought.

I have had to leave Tilly out this morning when i left for work as she was chasing a squirrel and wouldn't come in. I rang my neighbour earlier and she said Tilly is doing fine and not to worry. I can't help it though, i think she is so fragile with 3 legs, but watching her i know deep down that she isn't - LOL

Best wishes to all xxx

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [1 week ago]

I've fixed the uploading. Sorry, its probably not worked since I move servers. Its fixed now...

Posted by "Mur_meli" (mur_meli at hotmail dot com) [1 week ago]

it doesn't want me to post pictures... =o(

Posted by "Mur_meli" (mur_meli at hotmail dot com) [1 week ago]

Chris: No-one really know what to expect with Tuhka's leg. They were cutting tumor at first. Then, when it wasn't a tumor, they came up with the idea, that it might be an autoimmune disease.. It was supposed to weaken the leg, but now we have learned that it actually grows "more bone" (gristle?) to it.. Like layers.. They have never seen anything like this, and they are in aw that she actually uses her leg and is not in constant pain.. So, we really don't know anymore what is going on in her leg... I'm just happy she is still around!

Posted by "Charlotte " [1 week ago]

I'm exactly the same Barb (fortunately i work from home majority of the time). My 3 have developed an annoying habit lately of buggering about late at night and not coming in - Black cat (Leo) is worst for it, at least once a week! I think it's their way of dealing with the heat - they want to be out once it gets cooler.

Jasper has spent 1 night out so far but think that was more his big brotherly instinct kicking in as someone had left a little kitten outside which he would not leave.

We left our bedroom window for him to come in if he chose - middle of the night there was a thump and then someone settled down to sleep between us - through torchlight realised it was the kitten and not Jasper!! Jasper was too put out to come in LOL

Kitten was tattooed so contacted his owners and they came for him the next evening - we are expecting repeat visits!!

The vets are not concerned about his weight, he is just very active and we have had to restrict leaving food down as lady cat is in permanent chomp mode - she weighs 0.5kg more then Jasper and is half his size!! Can't win - i just keep trying to feed him up when she is not around LOL

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [1 week ago]

Barb. That's a good idea. I will do that when I get chance. I could break it into a gallery per user, but that would mean you'd have to have a username/password combination so you don't get spam pictures on it.

On a separate note, you can attach a picture to a board post. When you're filling out the comments, theres a 'Add picture' box (in yellow) - just please ensure its a JPG file.

Archie goes out an he worries us still to this day. He's recently taken an interest in a big cherry tree in the street, and we actually caught him climbing it. I guess you just need to leave them to it, because they'll just do it when you're not around anyway (like a small child)

Mur_meli, was Tuhka's leg expected to increase in size?

Posted by "Barb" (campbell dot 64 at hotmail dot co dot uk) [1 week ago]

Posted by "Mur_meli" (mur_meli at hotmail dot com) [2 weeks ago]

Hi all!
About Jasper - did the vet check his thyroid values (t4-hormone)? That might be the reason, why he's not gaining weight.. Just one idea...

Lucky Matt, he's got 2 loving families, and he's been rescued twise. He must have angels with him! Speedy recovery!!

My little 3-legged furball is still doing quite well. Tuhka's remaining back leg is twise the normal size (maybe more) but she's still using it. And doesn't seem to be in pain. I'll give her the painkillers in courses.. And it's almost a year since her op. 1/2 year ago, I didn't think she'd make it this long!!

Posted by "Charlotte " [2 weeks ago]

Hi Barb

Jasper had the same leg removed as Tilly and our problem is getting him to put on weight! He needs to put on about half a kilo but no matter how much I feed him he is burning it all off!

Our female cat is turning into a right porker though - unfortunately think it must be a girl thing :(

Posted by "Barb" (campbell dot 64 at hotmail dot co dot uk) [2 weeks ago]

Thanks Charlotte, she is a feisty little madam and we are made up with her progress. We have noticed, and I don't know if this is a side effect of having 3 legs, she has started piling the weight on. She is becoming a tubby chubby. The vet seems okay about this but has said just to keep an eye on her. That's a laugh as she never stops moving, even when she is that tired she can't be bothered hopping and just drags her back end on the floor behind her. You have to physically put her in her basket and tell her to go to sleep - LOL

Love and kisses to Matt from all of us xxx

Posted by "Charlotte" (charlotte dot cotd at gmail dot com) [2 weeks ago]

Awwww she's gorgeous Barb!!! Cute and full of mischief, what a great combination!! I take it she's the boss out of the three of them?! :D

Matt is moving so much better today, running around after Jack!! Think he'll be the boss round here soon enough! :)

Posted by "Barb" (campbell dot 64 at hotmail dot co dot uk) [2 weeks ago]

Hi Charlotte

How lovely to read about Matt and welcome to the club! Have a look at the link below, this is my 3 legged baby in action. Tilly lost her leg on Christmas Eve last year (we think a fox got her) when she was only 9 months old and we found this site an absolute god send in helping us and reassuring us.

Tilly was still under the anaestethic when we picked her up from the vets as the closed over Christmas and Boxing Day so we had no choice but to bring her home.

I can't tell you the pleasure i felt when i woke up about 4.30am and Tilly was standing next to my face (we had relocated to the living room floor to sleep so when whe awoke in the night we were there for her) purring and wobbling.

She now catches birds, butterflies, anything that moves - people are surprised when she comes over for a chat and they suddenly realise she is hopping because she has 3 legs.

Matt will surpise you daily with his progress until in the end you cannot remember him with four legs.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Fix3lyw9cQ

Posted by "Barb" (campbell dot 64 at hotmail dot co dot uk) [2 weeks ago]

Posted by "Charlotte" (charlotte dot cotd at gmail dot com) [2 weeks ago]

Hey Chris and Charlotte

Thank you for the comments. Matt has come on leaps and bounds today!!! This morning he was up and ready to play at 8!! He came down stairs and has chosen to stay down here all day (Jamie took the day off, my turn tomorrow). Today's activities have included attacking Jack (in a friendly way) playing with and bunny hopping a mouse (toy one) and coughing up a hair ball (in his litter tray!). I think he's worn himself out now as he's fast asleep on the sofa just now. He is drinking more but only from the other cats' bowls and not his own. What is it with cats and 'used' water? His toilet trips are becoming a little more regular so I guess it's just taking time for his body to adjust.

Thank you again for replying, it's great to know that other people have such success stories with Archie and Jasper. I think it's really great that you set this site up Chris as the other sites out there seem so daunting!

Posted by "Charlotte " [2 weeks ago]

Forgot to add - Jasper licks me a lot since his accident, something he never did before (other cat always has) I like to think it's his little thank you!

Posted by "Charlotte " [2 weeks ago]

Hi Charlotte

Just read the blog - very good! I didn't realise it was his front leg he had lost (Jasper's is a back leg).

Jasper's not a very good example for recovery as his was quite unique with having to be kept in a cage for 6 weeks to let his remaining back leg heal. That said, to read that Matt is already going up and down stairs is brilliant progress!

I assume it's like humans when we have a GA, some recover in a couple of days, some more like a couple of weeks (I've had both reactions) so would say give him a couple of weeks and he'll be his usual self just a bit more limpy :)

It's good he has a keen playmate, when we moved to France (3 months after accident) we got a new kitten and she gave Jasper a whole new lease of life! Our other cat that we got with Jasper is just like your black one and reacted the same! Took him about a month to go in to the room with Jasper's cage in it. Jasper was always the dominant cat and pleased to say he still is!! Plus being a local celebrity - not many 3 legged cats in France (pet insurance does not exist here yet).

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [2 weeks ago]

I should imagine it might take Matt longer than all the other stories here, as he has to cope with a new house, and new friends as well as his recovery. Probably wonders what he has done wrong!

Archie took a while to go to toilet properly. He slept lots and lots after the operation, and it wasn't his usual sprawl across the bed, he slept under a nursing chair in the corner of the room.

I think it was a good 2 weeks before he started coming out a bit, and it was 2 months before he was back to his old self completely.

Its just over 2 years since the accident now, and I can't really remember what he was like before the operation.

You're clearly a very caring cat owner who'd go the extra mile to help out an injured cat. Kudos to you.

Posted by "Charlotte" (charlotte dot cotd at gmail dot com) [2 weeks ago]

Hey Charlotte,

Thanks for the idea! He didn't wee all day, then last night I put him in his tray and he'd obviously saved it up! He had a bit of a runny tummy last night but has only weed once today so far. He's more active and has chosen to come down stairs twice. He's licking hands a lot...but I don't know if this is just one of his natural traits. My other two cats don't do this.

Generally how long did everyone notice before they started seeing a noticible improvement? Matt is doing well but i feel like he's trying to push himself a little today.

Thanks :)

Posted by "Charlotte " [2 weeks ago]

Hi Charlotte

Jasper did not drink much when he was first home so we developed a little trick with the prawns he was fed everyday - putting extra water in with them - he was more than happy to drink prawn juice water and could not get enough!

Is Matt going to the toilet OK?

Posted by "Charlotte" (charlotte dot cotd at gmail dot com) [2 weeks ago]

Hi Sue and Charlotte

We agree, now know what a loving cat he is it must be so hard for them letting him go. But as Trevor is still going between Spain and Scotland his wife is left with 2 dog and 2 kids under 4 so they are so scared of him getting out. They will always be welcome to come round and see him when ever they like. He may be small but has certainly a lot of love bestowed on him.

He got through his second night really well with out the 5.30 am wake up call this morning. he does seem to be sleeping an awful lot which I guess is normal, but he doesn't seem to be drinking much has anyone else experienced this? He's eating well so maybe he's getting enough moisture from that.

Posted by "SueH" (sue dot harris at dsl dot pipex dot com) [2 weeks ago]

Interesting to read Matt's story and his blog - he is a lucky boy to have survived his accident and to have two loving families to look after him. It was very unselfish of his non-resident family to realise that he was not in the ideal environment and to make his main home yours - not all cat owners are so considerate

Posted by "Charlotte " [2 weeks ago]

Hi Charlotte

Posted by "Charlotte" (charlotte dot cotd at gmail dot com) [2 weeks ago]

As a very new owner of an amputee cat I was so happy to find this site. Matt the cat in fact came home with us only yesterday! Nearly two weeks ago my fiance and I were driving home in the early hours (We work for a ghost tour company!) when I spotted two little eyes in the gloom on the other side of the road he was lying on the other side of the road. When I stopped the car to try to see if he'd run away we realized that he had been hit by a car. So we managed to track down the number for the 24hr emergency vet who we met at the surgery even though he wasn't our cat. He was chipped but it was un recognised. By this point (a couple of days later) we talked about dipping into our wedding fund and getting the poor little thing the treatment he needed. At this point the nurse phoned to tell me his chip had registered in Spain!!! (We're in Fife in Scotland) The next day the owners tracked him down and after a lovely phone call we learnt his name was Matt. And it turned out that they had got him in Spain when they rescued him out of their swimmming pool when he was just a few days old and nursed him back to health. They have just moved back to the U.K and it was the first night they let him out that it happened. We got a call on Monday past asking if we would like to take him as we live in a quieter place than they do and as we were so taken by him they felt it would be better all round. We already have two cats but there is always room for another (although we are definitely at full capacity now!). We have set up a blog for Matt's other family who are welcome to visit him any time and for any one who wants to keep up with Matt's life. http://matt-t-cat.blogspot.com/

We know it may be a difficult road as he's got a few changes to deal with but he's such a lovely cat.

Thank you for sharing Archie's story it definitely helps to read a personal account...rather than the clinical ones I have found on the net.

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [2 weeks ago]

Hi Jolene

Did you read the other's stories here? If not, I would whole-heartedly recommend it. There are a few sad stories, but on the whole they are great outcomes, and you'll get a lot of insight into what lies ahead for you and Neo.

On another note, please let me know how easy it is to read everything, as I think there are quite a lot of stories now, and it might be a good idea for me to separate them somehow into bite-size chunks.

Let us know how you get on, I know there are some people that have contributed here that keep tabs on new people like yourself for encouragement and advice.

Chris

Posted by "Jolene" (idroppedmyspoon at hotmail dot co dot uk) [2 weeks ago]

Hi Chris
Thank you for linking this website on DS. Just reading your website today has helped me hugely.
My 9 year old Neo has a tumour on his front left leg. Still waiting for the results to see if its agrerssive or not, but best case scenario is the leg will be amputated. So I am constantly researching 3 legged cats to prepare myself.
I will be back with questions providing the results are good which I'll know either today or tomorrow.
Well done to you and Archie for doing so well

xx

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [1 month ago]

Researchers are looking into Phantom Limb pain, which could be beneficial to animals I guess.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-oxfordshire-10725254

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [2 months ago]

That's great Barb. Its nice to see other 3 legged cats in action. Interesting that she is feisty. Archie is too, I wonder if they get a chip on their shoulder with a missing leg!

Posted by "Barb" (campbell dot 64 at hotmail dot co dot uk) [2 months ago]

This link below will take you to Tillymint in action. Alfie is next door's cat which Tilly takes great delight in ripping the face off everytine she sees him. She makes his life hell, but he comes back for more every time. Hope this link works :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Fix3lyw9cQ

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [2 months ago]

That's super to hear about your cats. What a great outcome for you all.

Barb, that must've been a little odd having Tillymint bring home a yorkshire pudding. Archie left us a little pile of intestines the other night, which was nice. He'd never leave a yorkshire, far too tasty to leave!!!

Mur_Meli - we had some issues with the website but they should all be resolved now. Thanks. 8 months to grow back the hair! Thats a long time, poor Tuhka.

If you missed the programme on BBC1 last night about Oscar the bionic cat, then you can still watch it on the iPlayer here http://bit.ly/aoh0iu

Happy to hear you all are doing well.

Posted by "Mur_meli" (mur_meli at hotmail dot com) [2 months ago]

Hi!
It's great to hear about Tillymint!!
I also have some good news. Tuhka can still go without (everyday) painkillers!! The glucosaminepills she takes, have so far been enough! Every now and then, when she is more quiet, I give her some painkillers, because it's so difficult to tell, if she's quiet because of the pain.. A year ago I didn't believe she would still be around!!
And it took 8 months the hair to grow back...

Thanks Chris for putting up this site!! It has been a friend in dark times!
(lately i've had some difficulties opening this page - error code keep showing up...)

To ALL of you and your furry friends: Have a GREAT summer!!!

Posted by "Barb" (campbell dot 64 at hotmail dot co dot uk) [2 months ago]

Hi everyone

Its been 6 months since Tillymint lost her back leg and she is doing just fine. The scabbing on her remaining limb turned out to be a food allergy (only Tilly!), she can't have "cheap" cat biccies, only the real expensive ones!!

So far she has brought home mice, various birds, baby chicks, butterflies, pegs, a yorkshire pudding(!) and the list goes on.

Losing a leg has not hindered her in any way and i hope people feel encouragement from this message. Your pet will cope better than you, believe you me!

This website was my saviour in a time of great need and we all thank you in our house xxxxx

Posted by "SueH" (sue dot harris at dsl dot pipex dot com) [2 months ago]

People might be interested in Oscar, the bionic cat. He's had his back feet amputated after an argument with a combine harvester and has been fitted with revolutionary artificial feet. The clip/article also has mentions a TV programme to be shown on Wednesday 30 June at 2245 on BBC1 called the Bionic Vet.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/jersey/hi/people_and_places/nature/newsid_8762000/8762217.stm
http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/jersey/hi/people_and_places/nature/newsid_8762000/8762326.stm
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/science_and_environment/10404251.stm

Posted by "JJ" [5 months ago]

What a great story. Well done archie!

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [5 months ago]

That does sound like an awful position to be in. There is only so long that medication can make your life better...

When she's not in pain, I bet she's still a happy bundle of fur... Such a tough time for you all.

Posted by "Mur_meli" (mur_meli at hotmail dot com) [5 months ago]

Hi Chris.
No, it's not arthritis. It's an autoimmune disease, that's affecting the joints. Or then it's some sort of tumor (the pathology result didn't tell us what's causing this). Anyhow it is destroying Tuhkas joints from the inside. The outcome is similar to arthritis, that's why I'm thinking of possible ways to cope with it.. And as I found out earlier the cortisone injections make Tuhka sick, so we can't use them.. This sucks!!!!

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [5 months ago]

Sorry to hear about your elder cat. Sounds like you did the right thing though.

Not sure about arthritis. But, as over 8 million people in the UK suffer from the most common type of it, I am sure there are medications available. How much different could it be for a cat?

Did the vet say it was definitely Arthrtitis?

Posted by "Mur_meli" (mur_meli at hotmail dot com) [5 months ago]

Ooops... Felixe's duck. Got the names wrong, sorry.

Posted by "Mur_meli" (mur_meli at hotmail dot com) [5 months ago]

It's great to hear, all your little huntters are doing so good! My cats are indoorcats, so they only bring me toys... Jasper's duck made me laugh (in a good way)!
I had to put my old cat to sleep 2 weeks ago. He was 18yrs, had kidney-, thyroid- and bloodpressure problems. So it made sense..
This weekend I realized I might have to do that decision again soon with Tuhka. She woke me up crying on night, clearly in pain. Luckily the painkillers calmed her down. I don't know how people handle animals with artheritis - how they can keep the pain in control? Is it even possible? I have to figure out all the options or then I have to face the only option.
With a heavy heart..

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [5 months ago]

Archie brought back a vole this weekend. I'm waiting for him to bring us back a duck. That'll go nice with some red wine gravy!

Posted by "charlotte and jasper" (charlottemoir at hotmail dot com) [5 months ago]

WOW a duck! Jasper has brought a mouse once but it was ages ago - he seems to have lost interest in hunting

Posted by "Alice" (alice dot corkill at education dot nsw dot gov dot au) [6 months ago]

Felix is doing quite well now. he managed to catch a full size duck and bring it inside. He doesn't seem to be expriencign any more phantom limb and seems quite happy with three legs.

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [6 months ago]

Hello.

I've uploaded a new video of Archie to the front page of his website. I tried to get a video of him walking to show the 'hops' but he was less than helpful...

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [6 months ago]

Yeah, he didn't have any problems last night.

Perhaps its not something to worry about.

Posted by "charlotte and jasper" (charlottemoir at hotmail dot com) [6 months ago]

sounds like a bit of muscle strain from extra activity - jasper is out more now too so will keep and eye on him for signs of it

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [6 months ago]

He does chase the other cats, but he's twice their size so its not really fair to class it as a fight. More like he sits on them.

He play fights with us more. And his back leg does give it some but I think he forgets sometimes. Plus we've noticed he's going out more in the nicer weather/brighter evenings. So perhaps he's just more tired.

Posted by "charlotte and jasper" (charlottemoir at hotmail dot com) [6 months ago]

Does Archie play fight with other cats? When Jasper does he is on his back kicking like crazy with 3 legs and i'm amazed he does not hurt himself.

It's generally after a vigorous fight that he is a bit stiff/wobbly and not able to jump so well.

Posted by "charlotte and jasper" (charlottemoir at hotmail dot com) [6 months ago]

Hi Chris

I notice that with Jasper sometimes but it never lasts long - think it may be a case of pulling a muscle or something similar whilst out and about.

It was a year this weekend since Jasper's accident and I'm pleased to say he is doing exceptionally well and is loving all the sympathy that comes from new people who meet him - he is so spoilt!

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [6 months ago]

Archie seems to have suddenly gone backwards in his ability to jump.

We have a small thing for him to sleep on, which is about the height of a coffee table. He had no problems jumping onto it before, but in the last few days he doesn't seem to be able to make it first time and has to have another go.

Has anyone else had this?

Posted by "cj" (force1959 at msn dot com) [6 months ago]

Onyx was sleepy for about 48 hours and plus the help of the pains meds given during the day. Be reassured that all will be fine. Phanton pains do go away i beleive for that is what onyx has showed since her surgery. Just make sure that keep them quite for some time. Keep us up to date and we will be more then happy to help with any questions that you might have. the main thing i am working on is to watch on Onyxs weight. and have also noticed that the back leg that remains is checked on for i have noticed when she is in the litter box some of the litter will harden on the leg so daily checking and cleaning is needed. She also gets tired after play time for it takes alot of energy

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [6 months ago]

Hi Rachel.

Archie was also very sleepy after the operation. Probably a mix of drug effects, and a little depression. He slept under a chair in the bedroom for a couple of weeks after the operation - but that's probably also because he wasn't allowed outside.

He didn't take long to get back to normal, and we've not had any phantom pains for months now. He's either got used to them, or they've stopped. I really did think they'd last longer to be honest.

Chris

Posted by "Rachel Day" (i-animals at hotmail dot co dot uk) [6 months ago]

yesterday our cat had her leg took off and she has been very sleepy, is that normal?

i just wanted to ask since you have been through and just incase our cat goes through it... do those phantom pains stop?

Posted by "cj" (force1959 at msn dot com) [6 months ago]

Hello all

Since i have last talked to everyone Onyx is now spayed and doing just fine. Pic of missy and Onyx Onyx seems to need closeness and the mother companionship.

I hope all kittens are doing well. and tillymint is getting better day by day.

This site is just what owners of loved amputees need we have all been there and have different stories to tell and have experienced. Your cat will be fine after surgery. It is just something they get used to on there own. I also agree that to tape a leg up to see what happens is not necessary. I do not blame them for being upset. This is something they learn and deal with it on a dividual basis. You will go thru emotion up and down and will think you are making the right/wrong decision. I was there myself. I had cried for nights and i am blessed with this site and the people here to listen and been thru the same. Please your decision which everone you make will work out in the end. Please keep in touch for we all care deeply.

Posted by "Barb" (campbell dot 64 at hotmail dot co dot uk) [6 months ago]

Hi all, I cancelled Tillymints x-ray as i noticed some scabbing and bleeding on her remaining back leg which she kept licking like mad. She has an allergy of some kind and the vet has given her an anti inflammatory jab which should last 2 weeks. Apparently, as the leg is sore from licking it she is trying to protect it, so basically she is "limping". I am just so pleased that she hasn't damaged her hip or back and it is "just an allergy". Hopefully the only way is up for her now.

Posted by "Maiken - Lala" (maiken85 at hotmail dot com) [6 months ago]

@ Chris: That is what I also thought, so after about 5 mins with the hissing, meowing and so on, the tape went off. Then she whas hiding for som time and now she's herself again.

I did see the video and it's incredible to see him runing like that. It really is possible :)

I will read the stories and hopefully it will give me some peace in mind. Thank You

@SueH: The vet it's actually very good and has been a great support in the entire process. But the strapping was not the best idea.

Thank you for the input concerning her weight. She is on a diet now and hopefully the weightloss will continue, even after the leg is removed.

Posted by "SueH" (sue dot harris at dsl dot pipex dot com) [6 months ago]

Maiken

I really think that doing that to your cat is not a realistic way to see how she would manage with three legs - it is at best uncomfortable and at worst painful for her, and she is going to be concentrating on freeing herself rather than on getting about. Are you happy with this vet? Does s/he have any experience with amputation/amputee cats? If not I am sure you could change....

As stories here show, cats manage very well with three legs after initial adjustment.

Good lcuk. I wouldn't worry about the weight as far as the op goes although it will be good to lose it for her mobility and health in the future.

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [6 months ago]

Barb, perhaps Tillymint hasn't quite adjusted properly. I think running is more natural for the limb movement...

Let us know what the vet says...

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [6 months ago]

Taped it under her belly? I'm pretty sure I would be hissing and angry if someone was taping my broken leg!!!

That must've hurt, a lot.

Anyway, your cat will adjust fine with a missing leg. Just read some of the stories on here. If she's only 3 years old, then I personaly think she'll be fine.

Did you have a look at the video on the front page? It shows Archie running around fine with a missing leg. It doesn't affect him at all any more.

Not sure how a pound over weight will affect things, but I don't really think a pound is a lot. Someone else might know better...

Posted by "Maiken - Lala" (maiken85 at hotmail dot com) [6 months ago]

Hi Guys

I'm sitting here in Denmark searching the net trying to find information about amputation, there's not a lot to find. I have have a almost 3 year old cat, who is going through surgery on monday. She has a broken ligament on the back right leg. The vet thinks the only way out is an amputation of the leg. The problem is, that my cat is apox. 1 pound overweight. She is on a diet now and has lost 110 grams in 14 days, so it's going in the right direction. I'm very anxious about having a 3-legged cat and I can't help thinking what kind of live she will have afterwards. I'm just tearing up, because I dont know what to do. The wet took the leg on friday and taped it under her belly, so we could see how it would be. She was very upset, biting, scrathing, and meowing like she never did before and the tape went off. Did any off you try this before the amputation and how did your cat react? How did your cat react after coming home from surgery without a leg?

Best regards,
Maiken

Posted by "Barb" (campbell dot 64 at hotmail dot co dot uk) [6 months ago]

Well, Tillymint is having an x-ray on Monday morning. The vet (and Tilly) are not happy, she is still dragging her good leg - he wants to check she hasn't damaged her spine in some way. He said she is still in pain and is compensating for that. She walks fine for about 3 steps then squats down and drags the leg. Anyway, i will let you know what happens on Monday, fingers crossed she has just decided that that is the best way to walk!! Watching Archies video, Tilly runs exactly the same, it is only when she is walking. We live in hope.

Posted by "charlotte and jasper" (charlottemoir at hotmail dot com) [7 months ago]

Jasper spent 5 weeks in a cage following his amputation (he had damaged the other leg too). It's now 11 months on and he moves around fine - hopefully she just needs some rest and possibly she hurt that leg a bit at the same time

Posted by "Mur_meli" (mur_meli at hotmail dot com) [7 months ago]

Poor Tillymint! Hope she will be fine soon!! Lots of TLC!!

We take one day at a time with Tuhka. Her remaining back leg is very swollen, but I don't think she's in pain. She hops around, plays with her toys, aso. Sometimes she slows down a little and at those times I wonder if there is some sort of sensations in her leg.. As long as she doesn't feel pain...

Posted by "Barb" (campbell dot 64 at hotmail dot co dot uk) [7 months ago]

We had to take Tillymint to the vet in the end, she could hardly walk. Apparently, after much scratching, hissing, spitting and general nastiness from our baby the vet (god bless him) was able to ascertain that she has strained her hip and is in terrible pain with it. She is now on antibiotics and painkillers and is confined to a cage to stop her moving around. She also had a temperature and he gave her something for that as well. This poor little cat is just trying to have fun. Hopefully in a week or so she will be able to walk properly but at the moment she could do with a wheelchair. I will keep you posted anyway, thanks for the replies.

Posted by "charlotte and jasper" (charlottemoir at hotmail dot com) [7 months ago]

Jasper does not seem to have problems walking and is fine on his remaining back leg. When he was first 'up and about' he stuck close to walls etc but I think that's just cos he was wobbly at first but seems fine now

We saw a siamese hopping on 3 legs last night whilst holding up a front leg - couldn't get it to come close to us so we could check it but really hope it's OK and was on its way home -I felt so guilty having to leave it (it looked OK otherwise)

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [7 months ago]

Yes, Archie sometimes walks a bit funny. We think its because he tires quickly (or is after some sympathy!) - it must be quite hard to grow the muscles required for walking on one less leg...

If you're worried or she keeps doing it, then I would recommend a visit to the vet.

Is it sore? Will she let you massage that area?

Posted by "Barb" (campbell dot 64 at hotmail dot co dot uk) [7 months ago]

Hi, it's me again regarding Tillymint. Has anyone noticed with their 3 legged pet who has lost a hind leg that they went through a phase of not walking properly.

Tillymint started yesterday walking like a rabbit, meaning she is not walking on her back leg as normal but is "hopping" on the lower leg part - like a rabbit does. She is also swinging the leg out to the side and almost dragging her "stump" on the floor.

We are debating whether or not to run her to the vet tomorrow for a quick check and to put our minds at rest that she hasn't had a fall and hurt her back, but i said let's see what Archie's site has to say first.

Thanks guys.

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [7 months ago]

Hi Barb.

Yeah, Archie quite often tries to scratch his ear with his missing leg. He goes through patches of doing it a lot, and then not so much. Although he doesn't hiss at us...!

I would suggest that perhaps a good brush should sort out a few knots that might cause an itch. We do brush Archie more often these days to try and keep his stump wiggling down to a minimum.

And its winter so he brings back twigs and leaves and all sorts so we constantly have to brush them out!

Perhaps Tillymint is in a bit of a strop about being shaved and having her leg taken from her. Its probably been a very traumatic 10 months to be fair to her. Time is a great healer and she'll soon forget about it.

Posted by "Barb" (campbell dot 64 at hotmail dot co dot uk) [7 months ago]

Hi everyone, this site is fabulous for the parents of amputees. Archie looks great on the front page.

Tillymint is doing great, running around like an idiot and loving life to the full. We've just had her spayed (last week - she's only 10 months old god bless her) so she is looking a bit bare from the waist down :).

I have a question though. She had her back leg amputated and can't scratch behind her ear. If we go to do it for her she spits at us and walks away in a huff and then carries on trying to scratch. Its actually quite heartbreaking watching her - does anyone have a suggestion or will she sort it out herself?

Many thanks and love to you all.

Posted by "charlotte and jasper" (charlottemoir at hotmail dot com) [7 months ago]

Hi Chris

It would appear he has had a few episodes but my OH did not know what they were and never told me!

I witnessed one but it was literally 5 seconds of him throwing himself around then he was fine so i'm not too worried about them.

Posted by "cj" (force1959 at msn dot com) [7 months ago]

Thank you so much for your response. I do beleive in what you are saying. yes here in the US it is exceptable--for i also do not feel this is necessary and inhumane for any animal. Being harsh is a good thing for the support i get on this site is very valuable. Thanks for taking the time.

Posted by "SueH" (sue dot harris at dsl dot pipex dot com) [7 months ago]

No, no, no!! Don't even think about it! It is cruel and barbaric mutilation and is illegal in the UK and in many other countries unless done for medical reasons. Vets in the UK can be struck off if they declaw. I know that in the US sadly some vets will do it because ignorant people demand it and pay for it, so it can seem that it's acceptable - but how would you like your nails pulled out? The Humane Society's statement to many this side of the pond would seem pretty wimpish in its opposition but it does state the downside very clearly. Board won't accept the link but put the usual in front of this - http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/cats/facts/declawing.html
The only reason anyone would do it knowing the damage it does to the cat's welfare would be if they value their soft furnishings above the cat's wellbeing.

An amputee cat in particular might need their claws to act as crampons when they move about.

Sorry to sound harsh because you clearly love your cats very much and would not do anything to harm them, but please realise that declawing does just that

Posted by "cj" (force1959 at msn dot com) [7 months ago]

Need some help: what do u all think about getting declawed. It is time for Onyx to get spayed and just want to know all opinion on declawing our cats. Hope all is well.

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [7 months ago]

Hi Charlotte, has Jasper had any "phantom" pains yet or have you managed to dodge that particular problem completely?

Posted by "charlotte and jasper" (charlottemoir at hotmail dot com) [7 months ago]

I love the video of archie, I couldn't even see that he has a leg missing!

Jasper is less fluffy so his is more noticeable but he can run very fast which amazes me considering how damaged his remaining back leg was.

He's doing very well now, over 10 months on from his amputation.

He's more sedate now and doesn't roam far from the house (none of our 3 do really anymore) but I'm happy with that.

He still manages to put a good fight with his 'brother' and 'sister' and pull's the sympathy vote when he feels he's not getting enough attention!

Hope everyone is recovering as well as jaspie xx

Posted by "cj" (force1959 at msn dot com) [7 months ago]

Archie has come along way. The video says it all. The care that you have provided and the love you have given, it really show a happy cat. I just love it. Keep safe and in touch.

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [7 months ago]

I have put an online video of Archie running on the site. It can be found on the front/home page of this site; if anyone is interested.

Thanks, Chris

Posted by "anita" (anitatk at iol dot ie) [7 months ago]

thanks to you all again, the support given on this forum is second to none and such a wonderful help to us all.

Posted by "cj" (force1959 at msn dot com) [7 months ago]

It is good to hear all is well. Onyx is doing well she got her first bath---and she feels so much better. Those two are just precious. It is always better to have a buddy to cuddle with. Keep us informed on how everyone is doing.

Take care all

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [7 months ago]

Hi Anita, it's great to hear about OJ.

Its nice when people come back and tell us how they've been getting on. It also helps people I think to see and be able to read the natural progression through the recovery process.

We're very pleased for you. I bet it all seems so long ago now!

Posted by "Anita" (anitatk at iol dot ie) [8 months ago]

sorry, forgot to say, these two cuddle up to each other all the time...never get an opporunity to take a photo of them on their own!

all the best to you and hope all your beloved feline friends continue to thrive.

Posted by "Anita" (anitatk at iol dot ie) [8 months ago]

just another pic, cos I'm so pleased with his recovery!...

Posted by "Anita" (anitatk at iol dot ie) [8 months ago]

Hi everyone,

glad to hear all are doing well, its weird that we all seemed to be going through the worst at the same time! thought I would update you on little ossie (OJ). well he is doing great; is flying around, jumping up no problem and is just doing brilliantly! has started to go out, but as soon as he hears a car he is back inside before hte car is in sight! so thats actually a good thing...heres a photo of him with his little buddy millies!

Posted by "Barb" (Campbell dot 64 at hotmail dot co dot uk) [8 months ago]

Thanks everyone, Tillymint took her first tentative "run" this morning, took 3 steps and fell over, got up, did the same thing. A couple of hours later and she can now "run" albeit sideways so she is balanced - what a brainy cat. Its brilliant watching her progress, I'm just dreading the day when she goes out again, but we will cross that bridge when we come to it.

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE xx

Posted by "cj" (force1959 at msn dot com) [8 months ago]

Barb she is just adorable. i am so glad she is doing well. the hard part is over. she will do just fine. It has been a month tomorrow for Onyx since had her leg taken off and she is doing fine. she is a handfull and exploring everything. Just remember they have to learn all over again on some things they used to do. protect them and love them and you will be surprise. sending prayers to all.

HAPPY NEW YEAR

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [8 months ago]

Barb, that's really great news that she's recovering so well. That photo really brings back memories of when Archie came back from the vets. Sometimes we forget how horrific it was at first.

Posted by "Mur_meli" (mur_meli at hotmail dot com) [8 months ago]

Great news Barb!
The photo is not at all upsetting, it's comforting! It must be a relief to see her like that after all she's been thru: alert and active.

Posted by "Barb" (Campbell dot 64 at hotmail dot co dot uk) [8 months ago]

Hi everyone, thanks for all your kind messages.

Well, Tillymint slept all through Christmas Day and night, only got up once to go to the "loo". Boxing day she awoke with a huge appetite, but still quite groggy. Since then her progress has been astonishing to say the least.

She can now climb up her frame and leap, yes leap, onto the top of the wardrobe. She wants to play and is quite alert. You wouldn't think she has just lost a leg. We have stopped sleeping on the living room floor and have relocated back into the bedroom, along with Tillymint. She follows us everywhere and needs reassurance all the time which she is more than welcome to receive.

I have attached a photo of her in her "recovery box" - I hope I don't upset anyone.

Once again, thank you all.

Posted by "SueH" (sue dot harris at dsl dot pipex dot com) [8 months ago]

Barb, so sorry to hear about Tillymint but I hope you can be reassured by others' experience. One thing - if she can't get on with a conical collar you could perhaps try a Comfy Collar (google cat comfy collar) which are less traumatic.

Posted by "Lorna" (sexpistolsfan at hotmail dot com) [8 months ago]

Sorry I was automatically calling your cat a he out of habit. I meant she

Posted by "Lorna" (sexpistolsfan at hotmail dot com) [8 months ago]

Hi Barb, sorry to hear about your kitten that's so so sad. What an awful thing to happen at such a young age. Horrible, really really awful.
Fingers crossed he'll grow up and his other legs will really strengthen and he'l adapt really well.
I am sorry for you it's an awful thing to go through.
I can't believe how well they can adapt and carry on. They really are amazing animals.
I still can't believe it happened to my cat, I hate that he had to go through it all. Because your cat is so young that goes in his favour and his muscles will strengthen and his balance improve.
Let us know how he gets on and I really hope everything is ok.

Posted by "Mur_meli" (mur_meli at hotmail dot com) [8 months ago]

The first week after Tuhka's surgery was the worst week of my life. She was unhappy and confused, she had phantom pain and hallusinations. The second week was a bit better and it has gotten better a little bit after every week. The only real setback is that her remaining back leg is swollen. And there is nothing I can do about it.
Barb, it will get better!! Just give the littleone all the support you can. You may have to make some re-furnishing, so that Tillymint can get to places...

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot om) [8 months ago]

Barb
So sorry to hear about Tillymint, but as you will see from the site, our little furry friends recover very well from there injuries, its us that tend to take longer to adjust.

The best thing you can do for her, is just give her love and attenton, which I'm sure you would/are anyway.

They probably just want re-assurance from you that you're not going to take them on any more trips to the vet!!!

Posted by "cj" (force1959 at msn dot com) [8 months ago]

I am sorry to hear that this has happened. I am glad that all is well and there was no other injuries. Do not worry all will be fine. All of us has been there and know what you are going thru. Keep us informed on the progress and prayers are with you.

Glad to hear all is doing well.

MERRY CHRISTMAS HAPPY NEW YEAR

Posted by "Barb" (campbell64 at hotmail dot co dot uk) [8 months ago]

Tillymint is at home with us. The vet had to take remove the whole leg I'm afraid and she is not very happy. She has already removed the "cone" from her head and is tugging on her stitches at every opportunity, but i am monitoring this and trying to stop her. We are going to take shifts tonite so that someone will be with her throughout the nite, her suffering is so heart rending but it can only get better we hope. Thanks for taking the time to read and respond.

Posted by "Mur_meli" (mur_meli at hotmail dot com) [8 months ago]

Barb, I'm so sorry to hear about Tillymint! My fingers are crossed for the littleone. I wish you all the strength to go thru all these hard times. Keep us posted how things are going. You're in our hearts!

Posted by "Barb" (campbell64 at hotmail dot co dot uk) [8 months ago]

Tillymint our 9 month "kitten" was hit by a train last nite and is undergoing a further amputation as i type. The train cut her back leg clean off, but left a large piece of bone jutting out which the vet is tidying up this morning. Finger crossed she will be home for Christmas, traumatised but safe.

Posted by "Mur_meli" (mur_meli at hotmail dot com) [8 months ago]

It's been a tough year for many of us, but we've pulled it thru. Thank you all for your support and kind words.
I want to wish you all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Take care of you furry ones!
Mur_meli, Tuhka and Leevi

Posted by "Anita" (anitatk at iol dot ie) [9 months ago]

It is so good to hear all are doing well. Hope Tuhka is ok and gets better and better.....I have taken in another kitty now that needed a home and I have to say she has been a tonic for OJ. He has really livened up and I think having his new buddy after losing his other friend ( I still feel so guilty) has been a real motivation for him for him. He still isn't able to jump up though...don't know if it will come or if thats the way he will be. He is venturing outside but as soon as he hears a car he legs it inside; obviously remembers his ordeal. Though I think its a good thing that he is afraid of the noise of cars......Anyway, hope you all have a wonderful christmas and thanks again for all you kind support. I can't tell you how much it has meant and helped me through the awful time. god bless for now x

Posted by "cj" (force1959 at msn dot com) [9 months ago]

i am glad that all is doing well. Prayers are with you. Keep in touch and up to date on all. and Onys hair is no where in site. I know it will take time.

take care all

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot om) [9 months ago]

Good news about Onyx CJ. Thats great.

Archie's fur took about 3 months to get back to almost normality, but it wasn't until he got his winter coat that it was all the same length/thickness.

Posted by "Mur_meli" (mur_meli at hotmail dot com) [9 months ago]

Hi!
It's great to hear Onyx and OJ are doing well - as well as all the others!
It's been 3 months since Tuhka had her op, and she is doing quite well. Her remaining back leg is still swollen, and the cortisoneshots made her vomit blood.. So I've only given her some painkillers if she needed them, not all the time. She is playing with my other cat, climbing to the scrathigtree, aso. She seems quite happy. I'm hopeful that the swelling is not the cancer has spread.. Time will tell.
Hey, how long does it take the fur to grow back?
Merry Xmas to all of you!! And kisses to kitties!
Tuhka and Mur_meli and Leevi

Posted by "cj" (force1959 at msn dot com) [9 months ago]

Well it has been a week and Onyx is doing well. she is playfull and getting into everything. Now that christmas is coming she loves all the decorations and lights--she is very interested in the computer and watches everything on the scene. What a joy she is now that she feels much better and out of pain. Thank you all for your friendship during this ordeal and i my blessed to have met such friends.

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [9 months ago]

That's great to hear CJ. I'm sure sure Onyx will soon get back to misheivous ways!!! You just got to be patient with him and give him a lot of love (which I'm sure you would anyway)

Posted by "Anita" (anitatk at iol dot ie) [9 months ago]

ah she looks lovely, glad to hear it went ok. lots of TLC now and plenty of rest...and hopefully shouldn't be too long till she is hopping about the place! I put little oz in a cage for the first week or so for time outs, so that he didn't overdo it, but sure you will find what suits you and Onyx best.

Posted by "cj" (force1959 at msn dot com) [9 months ago]

thank you so much for your concern---picked little one today and she looks strange but doing well. keeping her settled is going to be a challenge. now that i see her i know i did the right thing. She feels so much better. she has ate some and she has drank alot of water. i will keep you posted. it just will take time for my pocket book to heal lol.

but it is worth it.

Posted by "Anita" (anitatk at iol dot ie) [9 months ago]

CJ, hope the surgery went well. you are so doing the right thing, you are giving the little chap/ girl a chance and thats all you can do. I agonised over OJ ( actually I call him' little ossie' now cos he is a replica of one of my other cats, Ossie!) and am so glad I gave him a chance. He is coming on really well. All the best and be patient, it will take them time to get back to themselves. will be thinking of you x

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [9 months ago]

Hi CJ. Sorry to hear about Onyx.

Sounds like the surgery is definitely the right option. We hope the infection hasn't spread any further. Fingers crossed for you.

Posted by "cj" (force1959 at msn dot com) [9 months ago]

I found a little kitten that had a injured right back leg and i caught it on a thurs and friday taken to the vet. make a long story short vet states amputate since the infection was so bad and the bones were infected also. got a second opinion and same thing was advised. Her name is onyx and is all black and her surgery is schedule for tomorrow 11/30/09. i am sure this is the right thing to do for the injury is very painful to her. please say a prayer for this little girl and i will try to keep update on her process--

signed little scared

Posted by "cj" (force1959 at msn dot com) [9 months ago]

Posted by "Anita" (anitatk at iol dot ie) [9 months ago]

well OJ is back to his normal self in that he is more alert and itching to get about, but is still only 'hopping' for a couple of mins before he lies down again. Am taking him outside, supervised, but he doesn't seem to have confidence to want to explore yet..think its going to take him longer than normal. if he had his little mate I think it would make a big difference. My other three cats are older and not as tolerant with him, grouchy old biddys!

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [9 months ago]

Yeah, after the operation, Archie stayed under his chair in the bedroom for quite a long time. He got a bit depressed we think, and he wasn't really himself until he got the stitches out and was allowed out again. Then he really started exploring again and getting his strength back.

Posted by "Anita" (anitatk at iol dot ie) [9 months ago]

Chris, thanks for that, yea I kinda guessed it will take time, but because OJ injured his remaining back leg too, I was afraid it could be a case of him never getting his strength back in it to support himself properly..and no matter how much ti would hurt, if he hasn't got a decent quality of life I wouldn't keep him alive just o ease my own feelings. I'm making sure he is getting plenty of rest between his walks around the house to make sure he doesn't over do it either.

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [10 months ago]

Alice. Sorry to hear about Felix. Shot with what? An air rifle?

If you do manage to get it on video, would you be interested in uploading it to Youtube, as it might help others diagnose a Phantom Limb attack...

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [10 months ago]

Hi Anita. We're sorry to hear about Sooty. Thats one of my biggest fears... Terrible, but don't be too tough on yourself, as Sue said, you can't protect them from every eventuality, everytime...

However, on the walking, yeah, Archie took a while to get used to walking distances. He still has to have a rest sometimes, but he is a lazy cat.

The remaining leg has to do quite a lot of work now, so I can only imagine how long it takes. If you think about humans in rehab after amputation, it takes months to get right...

Posted by "Alice" (alice dot corkill at education dot nsw dot gov dot au) [10 months ago]

My cat Felix, he was shot about a month ago and is back left leg had to be amputated. Yesterday my dad had to take him to the vet because he was yowling and sounded like he was in pain. Turns out he had phantom limb syndrome. The vet had never seen anything like it and asked us to film Felix when he did it again. Very funny Felix!

Posted by "Anita" (anitatk at iol dot ie) [10 months ago]

Chris, just noticed a message i thought I had posted to you didn't actually get through...anyway, just wanted to ask you and others whose cat lost a leg; did you find your cat was not as confident with walking for a while, and did they lie down alot after taking some steps. OJ seems to be exhausted after a few steps and lies down waiting for me to pick him up. I am putting this down to him still re cuperating and having to build up the strength in his other leg and having to get confidence?

Posted by "Anita" (anitatk at iol dot ie) [10 months ago]

Sue, thanks for that. I know...my brain says that but my soft heart says otherwise! I cried my eyes out all the way to work and when I got there my eyes were obviously red and when my colleagues asked was I ok and I told them, although they were very sympathetic I know they just could not comprehend how much my cats mean to me, and thats why this forum is so helpful and supportive for people like us who hold cats and other pets so dear to our hearts. It helps immensely to be able to share my feelings with others who really understand.

Posted by "Sueh" (sue dot harris at dsl dot pipex dot com) [10 months ago]

Anita, I am so sorry about little Sooty. What a terrible thing to happen. I can't imagine how you must feel. Try not to blame yourself, you cannot guard against all bad things however vigilant you are.

Good news about OJ, though.

Take care....

Posted by "Anita" (anitatk at iol dot ie) [10 months ago]

hi all, sorry I haven't got back to you about OJ. he is doing well. Had his stitches out last friday, and is hopping along nicely. Taking it slow though cos his other leg is still healing. Some very sad news though and I feel absolutely awful about it.......the other little kitten I found on the road about the same time as OJ came into our lives died today.....I had named him sooty. I ran over him....I am only now able to talk about it without bursting into tears....I was going out to work this morning, closed the door behind me, making sure he was on the inside, and then my son went back in to get his jacket and didn't check if the cat got out. I was in my car and just moved off when I went over a bump. I knew straight away it was sooty...cos we have a flat driveway...I actually saw him inm y side view mirror run in through the cat flap but when i went in he was lying there with his back legs splayed, crying....I think his back was broken..I am welling up just going over over it again...he dies about 10 min later. I feel so guilty that it was me who killed him. I have never killed an animal in my car and to kill my own cat is heartbreaking. he was the most beautiful friendly little chap, pure black..and if he hadn't been following me like he always did....anyway I buried him this afternoon beside my dog homer who got run over earlier this year. Needless to say its not the best place round here for cats and dogs with cars, but we live down a country lane, so i thought they would be safe...poor little OJ will miss his buddy terribly I'm sure. Only last night they werre sitting playing and washing each other...and the worst thing is my husband loved little sooty, and he went to england to visit family about 2 hours before it happened, so he will be gutted that sooty won't be here when he gets back...ah well, just hope now that OJ continues to make progress.

Posted by "Leah" (jacqiblacki at hotmail dot com) [10 months ago]

Hi Chris,
Ebony still has the stitches in I took her back to the vet yesterday and they said it is healing well,but they don't want to disturb the stitches and make it sore again as she is doing so well,she has to go back on the 30th November I can take her collar off in a weeks time see how she gets on without it,but I took it off for about 20 minutes today so she wash herself and she seems really happy and was even playing in a box today which I have not seen for a month nearly so I am so happy with her,she is back to her old self again,thank goodness,
Thankyou for asking ,I have a recent picture to post later of Ebony to show how she is doing and how relaxed she is bless her :)

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [10 months ago]

Hi Leah, how's Ebony getting on? How's her tail healing?

Anita, what about OJ? Has he had his stitches out yet?

Posted by "leah" (jacqiblacki at hotmail dot com) [10 months ago]

update on Ebony,she still has to wear the cone because her tail is still a bit sore,but like the vet mentioned it is still only 7 days since the second amputation so she is doing well and its healing well,she is back again on Monday,but I know she is getting better as she is rolling all over the place and generally happy again :)

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [10 months ago]

Archie hates head cones. I mean *really* hates them... He cowered in the corner of the house when we had to put it on him when he was biting at his stitches. He soon learnt to leave them alone. Thankfully. Anita, I hope everything goes well with OJ.

Posted by "leah" (jacqiblacki at hotmail dot com) [10 months ago]

Anita,I am praying your all goes well with your babies recovery and that he does not suffer too much pain,my cat has had her tail amputated and she is doing really well,she is struggling with the cone and seems to be scratching a lot of fur out because of it,but we are back at the vet tomorrow morning and hopefully it can come off,
has your cat got the cone on?

Posted by "Anita" (anitatk at iol dot ie) [10 months ago]

for those of you who knew about OJ, just letting you know he came home on wed. evening minus his leg. He is in good form but he's not out of the woods yet cos we have to wait and see if the fracture on his pelvis heals....if not ...well, I don't really want to think about it...so am making sure he is resting alot in between holding him on my lap for hours on end! Don't know how long it will be to find out if its healing,but he is getting his stiches out in ten days, so will have to wait and see then I suppose.

Posted by "Anita" (anitatk at iol dot ie) [10 months ago]

Lorna,

so sorry to hear about Timmy. Its heartbreaking I know, but try not to dwell on it...never a truer word said than time is a great healer. x

Posted by "David" [10 months ago]

I've just read Archie's story and all the board posts, and I have to say, I didn't realise how well cats seem to recover from losing a leg!!!

Very interesting stories.

Posted by "leah" (jacqiblacki at hotmail dot com) [10 months ago]

Dear Lorna,
I want to apologise to you because I have mistaken you with another poster and did not realise that Timmy is not with you now,I am sorry for your pain and I would never intentionally hurt anyone,I just get a bit dilly at times ,I know how much you loved and miss your baby and how much it hurts,my thought are with you and I wish you peace x

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [10 months ago]

Lorna, its such a shame about Timmy, but you can't protect them forever. You couldn't possibly check under every car or lorry whenever someone is moving off.

Don't be hard on yourself. You're not to blame.

Posted by "leah" (jacqiblacki at hotmail dot com) [10 months ago]

looks like tuhka is happy on his scratching post and on the road to recovery,they are true fighters for sure,my Ebony has not stopped eating this morning she is so much better,and their fur will grow back again to be beautiful .

Posted by "leah" (jacqiblacki at hotmail dot com) [10 months ago]

Good Morning Lorna,
I can understand how you feel not running out and warning the builders,but you cannot turn back the clock now,you need to stop feeling guilty and just think that it never killed her,I lived on a main road for 20 years and often saw gorgeous cats squashed by parked cars when they never knew they were under them and it was horrible to see,they never survived but your little baby did and she is on the road to recovery,also her fur will grow back in no time,and she will be gorgeous even though she is gorgeous now,we love our animals and they get deep into our hearts,but we are loving them and making their lives wonderful,so don't beat yourself up about what happened,she is here and she is making recovery. big hugs to you both xx

Posted by "Lorna" (sexpistolsfan at hotmail dot com) [10 months ago]

That photo's really sad. It's horrible to think of them going through so much, and having their fur shaved silly and stuff. They're so dignified and it's so unfair.
Timmy had a bit of belly hanging down, they stitched it up but the stitch fell out so it always hung down. When his fur grew back it wasn't noticable at all. I hate every day what happened to Timmy. I can't believe he made it that far in life and had that happen. We told the builders that were workin next door to check under their vans. The sickest thing is I knew he was under one of the vans and I watched as they got in and pulled away. What a sh!tty thing to happen I hate myself everyday for not running outside

Posted by "Mur_meli" (mur_meli at hotmail dot com) [10 months ago]

This is quite new picture, and it shows the truth... Except, Tuhka's on diet and has lost some of her hanging belly.. They should have performed lipo when they did the amputation... ;o)

Posted by "leah" (jacqiblacki at hotmail dot com) [10 months ago]

aww what a gorgeous cat very much like Ebony and she has the same shaved bum as Ebony lol,bless her xx

Posted by "Mur_meli" (mur_meli at hotmail dot com) [10 months ago]

Hi all!
It's great to hear that Coco, Ebony and all the other cats are doing well! They are fighters, they'll recover!

I've been giving Tuhka the painkiller for over a week now and she seems happier, so it obviously helps. The swelling is still there, but I believe the pain is reduced. She'll be on painkillers for one more week, and then we try cortisone shots. I'm not sure, if she'll be on painkillers at the same time or not.. Hopefully we can keep her pain to minimum and I'll have her around for many more years...

Here's Tuhka scratching the post 9 days after the operarion..

Posted by "Leah" (jacqiblacki at hotmail dot com) [10 months ago]

Update on Ebony,
Ebony had her first operation on 23rd October and had half her tail amputated,she came home the next day,I noticed during this time that she always seemed to be hiding anywhere and was constantly growling at her tail,she got another injury somehow and I cannot understand where it came from,but it ended up with her having another two inches of her tail she now only has about 1-2 inches left ,this time it has a bandage on and Ebony has a bigger Ecollar ,but somehow she can twist her body to reach het remaining bit of tail and lick the bandage,she has not managed to bite the bandage off and I really hope she does not succeed this as it will make healing longer,but her mood is so much happier and she is even socialising with us,but this might be because we have the fire on the lounge and at this moment she is lying in front and nothing seems to be bothering her,I can honestly say she is much improved from the first operation and I cannot help thinking that the tail was still infected from the dog bite which resulted in the amputations.
The vet told us that 90% of cat tail amputations nearly always end up with another amputation or some kind of infection,I am praying this is the last of the operations and that she will now make a full recovery without any further problems :)

Posted by "leah" (jacqiblacki at hotmail dot com) [10 months ago]

Ebony,who is at this moment acutally lying on her back in her box on the new blanket and is really relaxed and seems sooooooooo happy :)

Posted by "leah" (jacqiblacki at hotmail dot com) [10 months ago]

gorgeous cats they are the most beautiful creatures on this earth .love them all xxxxx

Posted by "Lorna" (sexpistolsfan at hotmail dot com) [10 months ago]

He's the most handsome black and white cat I've ever seen, all his face was perfect and his fur was all nice and silky soft. My poor baby

Posted by "lorna" (sexpistolsfan at hotmail dot com) [10 months ago]

Oops I clicked the wrong one. Have only got a few off my brothers phone on this computer cos it's a new computer and only got a few from his phone, hence the poor quality as well. I think I got thousands on my computer

Posted by "lorna" (sexpistolsfan at hotmail dot com) [10 months ago]

Aww she's really pretty. I don't know if this picture will work, but I've tried putting one of Timmy on.

Posted by "Leah" (jacqiblacki at hotmail dot com) [10 months ago]

a recent picture of Ebony

Posted by "leah" (jacqiblacki at hotmail dot com) [10 months ago]

these are up to date picture of Ebony

Posted by "Leah" (jacqiblacki at hotmail dot com) [10 months ago]

Lorna thankyou,Ebony is a lot bigger now that picture was taken when she was only 5 months old,she is quite a big cat,but when we got her she was as light as a feather and the vet was worried because she was so tiny.I am trying to find some recent pictures of her I will post if I find some :)

Posted by "lorna" (sexpistolsfan at hotmail dot com) [10 months ago]

Thats well good news and what a pretty cat she is!
My cat loved lying in cardboard boxes as well, they look so cute all curled up in their boxy

Posted by "Leah" (jacqiblacki at hotmail dot com) [10 months ago]

Ebony had not problem with her balance at all and was able to jump onto chairs and even balance on the window ledge,I asked the vet if having the remaining part of her tail amputated would affect her balance and he said it would not ,he said balance is not an issue with domestic cat's and she would be just a perfect to balance as if she had a tail,so I am trusting him at his word and when she comes home this afternoon I will post back and let you know how she is getting,I got her big cardboard box because she loves sleeping in them and I bought her a new fleece blanket in red with black paw prints,my son just looked and said she will be like a queen lying down in it.

Posted by "Desi" (desi dot marshall at ntlworld dot co dot uk) [10 months ago]

Hiya Chris - ohhh yes we were same, clock watching, running from room to room to see if we could see him, i was positive he would get stuck and couldnt get back - i was ready to go look in all neighbours gardens looking for him - but he came back no prob. Then slept all nite - thankfully !!! he was shattered but pleased with himself bless him.

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [10 months ago]

Desi, thats great news. I remember when Archie went out for the first time, we were bricking it!!!

Posted by "Desi" (desi dot marshall at ntlworld dot co dot uk) [10 months ago]

Hi all

I have some fab news, Coco has had his stitches out yesterday and went outside for the 1st time in 10 days and he managed to climb our 6ft fence and go into the field behind the school and was gone for 1hr 30mins - not like i was counting or anything :) He came home and came for a cuddle, he was so proud of himself, we now have our beautiful cat back and hes even more special now he only has 3 legs. xx

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [10 months ago]

I have only just noticed that the image upload tool was broken. I have fixed it, so feel free to upload images of your cats with your posts. Chris.

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot om) [10 months ago]

Leah,

I'm sorry to hear about Ebony. How did she cope for the couple of weeks? Did she learn how to balance again quickly?

As for the questionaire, I believe you have to print it off and post it, like the old days.

Alfiecat, its nice to hear that you adopted a cat "after" the amputation. The RSPCA in Cambridge put Archie's story on their website to aid amputee adoptees. Its nice to hear a story like that.

Posted by "Leah" (jacqiblacki at hotmail dot com) [10 months ago]

Lorna,
Yes I am posting on the cat forum also,I was trying to fill in the questionaire about cat amputations but there seems to be a problem and I cannot do it.

Ebony is 4 next March 26th,I am hoping she can come home this morning she cried yesterday when I left her she really is a mummy's girl and that pulls on my heart strings when she cries.

Posted by "Anita" (anitatk at iol dot ie) [10 months ago]

Lorna,

thank you for your kind words too. The support from everyone here has been great. thanks to you all.

Posted by "Anita" (anitatk at iol dot ie) [10 months ago]

Mur_meli,

thanks so much for your kind message. I am so sorry to hear of Tuhka's ongoing difficulties. I really hope everything turns out for the best. My little OJ is still at the vets; having his op tomorrow and the vet said he is doing really well; trying to get around even with the broken leg! One piece of really good news is that he is moving his tail so it will only be his hind leg that he will be missing. Having read all the messages from people whose cats are getting along so well with 3 legs makes me feel so much better as I am sure now OJ will adapt . He is a little fighter!

Posted by "Lorna" (sexpistolsfan at hotmail dot com) [10 months ago]

Mur_meli thats really sad about your cat, I hope the cancer hasn't spread and she is well soon. I haven't heard anything about swelling or pain in the remaining leg sorry. I've heard of phantom pains in the leg that was removed and them still trying to scratch themselves with it and stuff.
Keep us updated how your cat is. Fingers crossed for you.

Sorry to hear about your kitten going through so much Anita. I don't know anything about tail amputations, or much about leg amputations in younger cats to be honest. But I think when they're a kitten is the best time for it to happen if it's going to happen. They adapt so so well and recover well. There is a 3 legged cat round the corner from us whose been like that his whole life and he's absolutely fine and hops round with the other cats. I hope your kitten is a fighter and I'm sure when he's on the road to recovery he'll adapt well. They're so amazing.

Leah I think you just replied to me on the catchat forum. That's really sad about your cat, how old is she?

Posted by "Alfiecat" (kpark28 at hotmail dot co dot uk) [10 months ago]

Hi, i adopted my cat just after he had his hind leg amputated. He still had the staples in. It doesn't seem to affect him all that much, never stops him getting into mischief

Posted by "Leah" (jacqiblacki at hotmail dot com) [10 months ago]

Hello,My cat had half her tail amputated 23rd october,it went well but then a few days ago I noticed an new wound on the remaining tail above the sitiches it looked like a knife wound and it concerned me so much,I took het for a check up today and the vet decided to amputate the rest of the tail,I was gutted and I still feel sick about this I cannot stand the thought of my cat going through this operation again,but the vet phoned and said she had come through the operation good and she doing well ,she might be able to come home tomorrow,I am just confused because I have no idea how this new wound got there and feel guilty about the whole thing ,my poor little Ebony having two major operations in ten days seems so unfair.Ebony is much older than this picture but she has not changed much just the absent tail now bless her

Posted by "Mur_meli" (mur_meli at hotmail dot com) [10 months ago]

Hi Chris
I have only talked with the vet, so no further diagnosis is done. The treatment would be the same, since I will not amputate her remainig backleg... First we try with the painkillers and glukosamine, and after a few weeks or so, she'll have cortisone shots.
She has some kind of sensations in her leg, so that's why she's on painkillers. She still hops around, and plays, and eats. If the swelling and the pain doesn't go away, we have to assume the cancer has spread.. but I don't know the timeline - vet said it can't be estimated.
I'll keep my fingers crossed.

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot om) [10 months ago]

Hi Mur_Meli

Is the vet doing some more diagnosis on Tuhka's remaining hind leg? Are you waiting for results?

Is she suffering any pain? Or is it just some swelling?

Posted by "Mur_meli" (mur_meli at hotmail dot com) [10 months ago]

Anita, sorry to hear about Oj. Hope, he's doing well.

Tuhka's remaining back leg is swollen. I don't know what to think. It can be because of all the hopping, or the cancer has spread. I started with the painkillers and glucosamin. If it doesn't help I have to face the difficult decision.. It has only been 7 weeks since the amputation.
Did any of you experience anything like this? Did the remaining legs swell? This is killing me.... >'(

Posted by "Anita" (anitatk at eircom dot net) [10 months ago]

Desi and Chris,

thanks so much for your messages. Vet rang this morning to say Oj is fine in that he is eating, still a little bit traumatised though. She did the x rays and one of his hind legs has multiple fractures, his pelvis is cracked too and while his tail isn't broken, she thinks there is some nerve damage . Must say it sounded pretty gloomy...the outcome is OJ will lose one of his hind legs and his tail. My vet is great and she said having 3 legs won't be a problem for him but not so sure about loss of the tail as cats use them for balance. talked about the money side of things and she is happy to accept partial payments over a few weeks. But you know what, it didn't matter cos I had already decided to give OJ a chance, its the least he deserves after dragging himself back into the house. Have to say reading the messages here and finding further info on the net has helped enormously. I have trawled the internet and found a few cases whereby cats with 3 legs and no tail are getting along fine.So, OJ is having his leg amputated on monday and then his tail a week or two later; would be too much all at once. Given his young age will be a huge factor in his recovery. Just hope now there are no complications with the op. I just want to thank you guys for your support, its great to know there are other cats/ animal lovers out there who care as much.

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [10 months ago]

Hi Anita, Very sorry to hear about OJ. I did a quick search on the internet and found this site which has a small explanation about tail amputation, and honestly it doesn't look so bad. I completely understand the financial problems and hard decisions, but there was really only one choice we could make, and we do not regret it for one minute. As Desi said, your vet may be understanding at a time like this and allow you to be a bit more flexible.

Posted by "Desi" (desi dot marshall at ntlworld dot com) [10 months ago]

Hi Anita
Sorry to hear yr story - i was in that position last wk, my coco dragged himself home after a car accident and i was beside myself, hes only 1 and his sister would be lost without him, it is a very expensive thing to go through, trust me im still paying for mine but the animal hospital i took him to has allowed me to pay in installments - it is an RSPCA hospital and they were fab. I refused to take to my local vets cos he would just told me to put him to sleep if i couldnt afford it.
I understand yr predicament with him possibly losing his tail aswell, my coco came home same day he had his back leg amputated and i was shocked in what he could do, they gave me pain killers and told me to treat him as normal, i thought i would have to lock him in a cage etc but no i was told to act like it was all normal and its been a wk now and hes running around like normal, only thing he cant do is go out at the moment cos he still has his stitches in and im glad really with the fireworks at the moment. He does use his tail to steady himself when hes climbing up his 5ft scratching post so im not sure he would be able to do it without.
I wish i could give you more help but i cant. I think best thing to do is find out about his tail from the xrays then make the hard decision to save his life or not, at the end of the day is his life gonna be the same without tail and leg or not. Its hard and i wish you all the luck and pls let us know how you get on pls. Thinking of you at this time xx

Posted by "Anita" (anitatk at eircom dot net) [10 months ago]

Hi all,

I took in 2 stray kittens a couple of months ago, both found within a couple of weeks of each other. they are about 5 or 6 mths old now and like true brothers. The first one I found got run over today. I called him Ossie jnr, cos he looks just like one of my other cats, Ossie , also a stray. Poor OJ managed to drag himself back to the house and through the cat flap and I found him lying there, not able to get up. Rushed him to the vet and she says his tail is paralysed and he will lose it, and one of his legs prob has multiple fractures. He was in shock and could have been lying there for up to 3 hours cos I was out... i feel so guilty not being there. His little mate sooty is just lost without him... Vet has kept him to x ray in the morning but says she thinks he will be ok but will most likely have to have his tail and leg amputated. Says depending on the xrays....but that orthopedic surgery will cost a bomb... I am torn as to what to do....I honestly don't think i could have him put to sleep. I lost one of my dogs 9 mths ago and I still have tearful moments when i think of him, and had to get my older dog put to sleep a couple of years ago and I will never forget the pain that caused.....OJ is such a little character, and even though he was in shock and his blood pressure had dropped right down, he still rubbed his head against my hand and rested his head on me....such an affectionate and loving little lad.... Reading Archies story has given me some hope, but for OJ to lose his tail as well? Would that not be totally unfair to him just to ease my conscience and make me feel better? Its his quality of life thats the priority. Plus, financially times are so hard I don't even know where I would find the money for the vet bill. I would have to rob peter to pay paul....of course I won't know till tomorrow what the final prognosis is, and i hope he makes it through the night... but I just needed to share this with people who understand what I am going through. thanks for taking the time to read this.

Posted by "lorna" (sexpistolsfan at hotmail dot com) [10 months ago]

Oops I meant ArchiE*

Posted by "lorna" (sexpistolsfan at hotmail dot com) [10 months ago]

Thank you Chris. I hope Archis lives as long as Timmy. I hope all cats that are loved and happy do.
We'd still have our boy if he hadn't had the accident, probably for another 3 or 4 years maybe.
I went out to sit by him earlier but had to come in cos the builders were in the garden next door. I just wanted to shout and tell them it was all their fault.

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot om) [10 months ago]

Lorna.

I don't think there is anything anyone could say to ease your pain. Timmy won't be in any pain now, and you can remember him, for all those years.

I only hope that Archie lives as long as Timmy did.

Take care of yourself.

Posted by "lorna" (sexpistolsfan at hotmail dot com) [10 months ago]

Thanks for your message. I hope your kitten recovers well. Having a limb amputated when animals are young usually heals well and causes no problems for them. There's a cat round the corner with 3 legs and he runs round like a lunatic.
I don't know what to say about losing my boy. I'm just so so lost without him. It's like a huge part of me is missing

Posted by "Desi" (desi dot marshall at ntlworld dot com) [10 months ago]

Hiya Lorna
Im sorry to hear about yr sad news, it is really hard to come to terms with it when they sadly die, i had a cat who adopted us 10yrs ago and we had him for 10yrs until he sadly died due to clots on his lungs, we took him to the vet and he had to be put to sleep , that was a yr ago and we got the new kittens a few months after his death to help with my sadness, and although they didnt replace him they helped take our mind off our little boy. We treated him like a person too and we got him before we had any children so when he went we felt we lost a child. It is hard and at the moment you feel lost and unable to cope but you will and if you need to chat pls email me - i came on here cos my kitten got run over last wk and we were unable to save his leg, he is doing well and im glad we had it done cos we have him back home and we love him very much and hes special to us now. It is hard when you lose a pet cos alot of cat lovers treat their cats like people and not animals. My heart goes out to you and if you need to talk pls contact me, i found talking about our cats death the 1st starting point in helping to come to terms with his death - i was a mess for months. I know its hard but try and think about his happy times, look at pics of yr cat and remember the good times not the bad times of his accident. my thoughts are with you at this sad time Take care xx

Posted by "Lorna" (sexpistolsfan at hotmail dot com) [10 months ago]

I know, our house feels so empty and lonely. Everything we did revolved around him, and included him. He was so much more than a cat. He was my best friend and I can't believe he's gone. I've been telling people he's my best friend since I was 7 years old, that's 16 years. Primary school friends, secondary school. I didn't move to uni I travelled to the closest when I could be bothered because I'd have missed him and it's like it wouldn't have been fair on him. If he hadn't of had the accident and had his leg amputated a few months ago we would have had him for a good few more years. My poor boy was such a fighter and it just got too much.

It is so sad when they die, I've never experienced it before. I've had friends die in accidents or from illness, and as sad as that is and as much as it hurt at the time, this is killing me.

Posted by "Kath" (kathmounce at handbag dot com) [10 months ago]

Lorna,

I'm, so sorry, my boy Ceef died 6 weeks ago after the tumour which led to his amputation spread to his lungs. We all love our cats so much that it's such a horrible wrench when they are taken from us. Please take some comfort from the fact that Timmy was obviously a much loved cat who led a wonderful life.

Love and hugs,

Kath

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot om) [10 months ago]

Lorna. We're very sorry to hear about Timmy. Such sad news, our hearts go out to you.

Posted by "Lorna" (sexpistolsfan at hotmail dot com) [10 months ago]

Thank you. I've had Timmy nearly my whole life. My Dad got him for me and my 2 brothers when I was 7 and he's been there through everything. He was more than part of the family, he held our family together at times, and he was my best friend in the world. We buried him in the garden this afternoon wrapped in my old cardigan he liked to lie on with a picture of me and him on my bed tucked into the inner pocket.
I think had the accident not have happened we'd have had him a good 3 or 4 more years maybe. There were only good times with him cos he was just amazing.

Posted by "SueH" (sue dot harris at dsl dot pipex dot com) [10 months ago]

Lorna, I'm so sorry to hear about Timmy. It was a big op for an old boy but you did your best for him and gave him a chance - his end might have been nothing to do with the amputation. Remember the ggod times. Rest in peace, Timmy

Posted by "Mur_meli" (mur_meli at hotmail dot com) [10 months ago]

Lorna, I'm so sorry to hear about Timmy. You did what you could for him, and that's what counts. My heart goes out for you!
Mur_meli

Posted by "Lorna" (sexpistolsfan at hotmail dot com) [10 months ago]

After a couple of months fighting after his leg was amputated my boy couldn't fight anymore and died the early hours of this morning. He was about 18 and it was a huge operation after his leg was run over in August. He seemed to cope fine but just deteriorated so quickly over the last few days. I've never seen anything so scary and I cannot believe my boy is gone

Posted by "Mur_meli" (mur_meli at hotmail dot com) [10 months ago]

Hi Desi!
I'm curious to hear, what kind of homecare instructions you were given? Did you get a collar for Coco, or is he to be kept in a cage? And what kind of medication did he get?

Hopefully things are still going great for you!
Mur_meli and Tuhka the tripod

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmailc dot om) [10 months ago]

We're glad Coco is home and doing well.

All you can do now is comfort him if he gets depressed or frustrated, and give him lots of love. Although, don't leave his sister out. She might suffer emotionally too!

Posted by "Desi" (desi dot marshall at ntlworld dot com) [10 months ago]

Hi all
Update : Coco is home, hes come running over to us wanting stroking, eaten fresh chicken and is now resting and playing with his sister, he doesnt even look like hes had anything done, he was running and purring and im soooo happy. The vet has done a very clean job and you can hardly see the stitches. he goes back in 3 days for check up, then in 10 days for stitches out - im so pleased we went ahead with the op, we've got our beautiful coco back xx

Posted by "Mur_meli" (mur_meli at hotmail dot com) [10 months ago]

Hi Desi! I'm so sorry to hear about Coco! I hope you've read this forum from the first message... It helps you to prepare what awaits you.
It's been 6 weeks since my cat Tuhka had her leg amputated. I have stopped crying, but tears comes to my eyes sometimes when I think of the time before the op.
I promise you - they cope well, better than we do. The hardest thing is to let them do the recovering...
Let us know how you're doing, and remember, our hearts go out for you!!!

Posted by "Desi" (desi dot marshall at ntlworld dot com) [10 months ago]

Hi Linda
Thanks for yr advise, my son has just come home expecting to see him and hes abit upset, although he knows hes coming home soon, he's not ready for his cat to have only 3 legs, my daughters are off at mo sick so ive showed them footage of 3 legged cats on "you tube" and they have gradually got used to it, however my son is not wanting his cat home now - i can completely understand cos i felt the same way this morn but after repeatedly watching more and more cats coping ive grown used to the idea, i will have to be strong for all my family not only myself. everyone has been so nice on here so far and im sure in days and wks to come it will get easier and hey maye i will be able to put someone mind at rest too. talking about it definately helps and i appreciate everyones input, will keep you informed xx

Posted by "Linda Reynolds" (lindar06 at aol dot com) [10 months ago]

Hi Desi
I am so sorry to hear about Coco - we have all been there and all understand what you are going through. Ouchie was 18 months old when he had his leg amputated in March. I was concerned how he would look when he came home, especially to my 10 year old daughter. The vet prepared us for the worst but in the end, we were both so happy to have him home, we didn't care what he looked like. It does look sore to start with but the fur soon grows back and now when he is laying or sitting down, it is not noticeable at all. Ouchie coped amazingly well, as all the cats seem to do. When he is walking, he hops, but as soon as something catches his eye and he runs, he can run as fast as ever and you forget he only has 3 legs.
Just remember, you are still in shock and all your feelings are perfectly natural. You have definitely done the right thing and I am sure you will get strength and support from everyone on this site.

Posted by "Desi" (desi dot marshall at ntlworld dot com) [10 months ago]

Hi just a quick update, Coco has now had his op and is out and recovering, waiting for another phone call to let me know when he can come home, ive checked out you tube for 3 legged cats and wow im astonished at how they get around, i am confident i have made right decision and im sure if others can cope then i can xx

Posted by "Desi" (desi dot marshall at ntlworld dot com) [10 months ago]

Hi thanks for yr replies, im scared to look at you tube, i havent come to terms with it all yet, it only happened yesterday and was told last nite it had to happen so im trying so hard but i havent got the courage just yet, im hoping i can in a few hrs cos if he comes home today i need to be prepared. Ive seen pics of archie and im sorry i had to look away - im such a wimp :( i was bad when his sister was neutered cos her scare was bad too but i know its not gonna be as bad as Coco's and im not sure im gonna be able to look at him or help him if he needs my help. ohhh im so rubbish at this and i wish i could grow strength from somewhere - its all been so fast and i know i had to go ahead with it to give him life - i couldnt not but now im sort of regretting it, am i a bad person for feeling like this, im waiting for the phone to ring to tell me its all over and its driving me mad - thanks for yr advise and just one more thing will i ever stop crying :( xx

Posted by "Charlotte" (charlottemoir at hotmail dot com) [10 months ago]

Hi Desi

Jasper lost his rear leg and our vet told us to look at as many pics as possible to prepare us so that we were not horrified when we went to see him (to not upset him too as he was not coming home for another week). Also get on youtube and watch some 3 legged cats getting about - I stupidly didn't realise he would hop forever until I watched those!!

We have another cat who we got at the same time as jasper and he really struggled with it and seemed a lot more emotionally affected than jasper - we got a feliway diffuser and this seemed to calm him down a bit.

Jasper is absolutely fine now and very well adjusted, he doesn't venture far from the house anymore but did manage to bring me his fist mouse since the accident the other day ! (he's only been out 2 and a half months)

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [10 months ago]

Hi Desi

I hope Archie's story didn't fill you with too much dread. It is a lot to take on board, and it is a stressful time, I won't lie to you. But with the correct amount of love and patience from you and your family, I'm sure Coco will come out of it just fine.

Archie's standard of life couldn't really be any better. There is not much he cannot do (apart from "really" high jumping) - his missing leg doesn't hinder him at all.

Hope all goes well.

If you want to prepare yourself for what he'll look like after surgery, there are a couple of pictures on the "Recovery" tab above, which shows Archie's scar.

Best of luck, Chris.

Posted by "Desi" (desi dot marshall at ntlworld dot com) [10 months ago]

Hiya everyone.

I found this site because i have been searching for sites about amputation in cats. My baby got run over sometime Tues night and hes been in animal hospital all yesterday and today hes having his back leg amputated and im trying to come to terms with it. He has a twin sister who is searching for him and wont settle. Im also scared i wont cope seeing him after the op, hopefully he'll be coming home tonight or tomorrow but im scared of what he'll look like and how he'll cope. Ive read archies story and its filled me with dread and also helped. Im not sure im strong enough to cope with this but am trying my hardest to prepare myself. He made it home and hes alive and he is still my baby.I couldnt dream of not helping him out even though its cost us so much and we cant afford xmas pressies now for the kids, they have been so understanding even though they are still young, they just want our lovely cat back. His name is coco and hes just 12mnths old. We adopted him and his sister a month after we lost our family cat of 10yrs to a blood clot on his lungs so Coco and Lola are our world. Desi xx

Posted by "Mur_meli" (mur_meli at hotmail dot com) [11 months ago]

Thanks Chris for the encouraging words!
It's been 18 days since the operation, and I would have never believed, that Tuhka could be almost as she was in such a short time. So far thing are fine, and I really hope that we won't have any setbacks.
Thanks for all the support we have gotten, and best wishes to all of you!
Mur_meli and Tuhka

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [11 months ago]

Its great to hear that Tuhka is managing to balance herself better and that you are in better frames of mind. I remember not knowing exactly what to think and being confused.

A few people have said about the stump wiggle. It is un-nerving at first, but slowly you'll get used to it. Archie still does it, so we have to itch his ear for him, where he can't reach.

Anyway, we're pleased that you're doing okay.

Posted by "Mur_meli" (mur_meli at hotmail dot com) [11 months ago]

some of my message was missing...
Otherwise Tuhka is doing well. She has learned to balance herself nicely. Future looks brighter. I think we are coping.

Posted by "Mur_meli" (mur_meli at hotmail dot com) [11 months ago]

I was shocked and confused yesterday, when I got the pathologist results. We still have no answer what caused the swelling. It could be tumor, inflammation or some sort circulation abnormality. If it's tumor it's most likely benign.. All the doctors, who saw Tuhka's leg were certain that it is either osteo- or chondrosarcoma. Now it turns out it's neither (this would have been visible from the sample).
So I'm confused.. Did we do this for nothing? I tried to think possible ways to cure all the things mentioned above, and I'm _pretty_sure_, we should have amputated later anyways...

I stopped giving Tuhka this neurological painkiller. It ended the attacks.. So we've had 3 full days without attacks. Hopefully that was it!

Otherwise thing are going quite well here. Tuhka has learned to balance herself nicely. She still thinks she can jump higher than she actually can, so she falls quite often.. The fetches the ball, as she used to. Her stump moves, like there is a leg still attached - that's just so sad...
We well manage!

Posted by "Mur_meli" (mur_meli at hotmail dot com) [11 months ago]

I asked my doctor today, if it was possible to have side-effects from one of the painkillers Tuhka has.. It hasn't been reported, but since it affects nerves, it should be possible... I started this medication on Monday and first attack was on Thursday. It takes few days for the medication to start affecting - so I did the math... I will stop giving it gradually, so hopefully the attacks stop.
Tomorrow we get the stitches out.. And I still don't know the results from pathologist.. =O(
I'll keep you posted.

Posted by "Linda Reynolds" (lindar06 at aol dot com) [11 months ago]

Have printed off the questionnaire. Anything which helps little guys like ours is worth doing - thanks for the link.

Posted by "Sue Harris" (sue dot harris at dsl dot pipex dot com) [11 months ago]

I noticed on the Feline Advisory Bureau website that a postgrad vet at the Royal Vet College is doing some research on amputee (tail and limb) cats - how they cope.

If anyone is interested in here is the link: http://www.fabcats.org/owners/disabled/amputee.html

There's a questionnaire.

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [11 months ago]

Yeah, it is scary when they have these attacks becase there is nothing that you can see that is causing the pain... Do talk to the vet, ours was very re-assuring and calm about the attacks. And as severe as they sound, they do appear to end as abruptly as they begin.

It must be hard, its only just over a week since his leg was taken...

Posted by "Mur_meli" (mur_meli at hotmail dot com) [11 months ago]

We've had 3 weird attacs today. First attack of this kind was on thursday. I was thinking of phantompain. The one on yesterday morning was maybe because I accidentally hit her collar.. Maybe. But now Tuhka has been without her collar for 2 days and todays saldo is 3 attacks. I really don't know what to do?! These 3 haven't been as bad as the first one, but I'm still afraid her hurting herself... Worrying makes me sick.. I'll try to contact my doctor tomorrow... =O(

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmailc dot om) [12 months ago]

Archie didnt wear his collar for long, at the start he had it one while we were out and at night, then once the scar had started to heal we took it off. He did pick at it once and made it bleed, luckily he didnt pull any of the stictches out and after that he left it alone. We used to threaten him with it if we caught him licking or picking at it, as soon as he saw it he stopped.
I guess its like when we heal, it starts to itch thats why they pick at it.

Posted by "Mur_meli" (mur_meli at hotmail dot com) [12 months ago]

Hi!
I'm still waiting for the results from the pathology..
All of you whose cat has had a cancer - resulting amputation - do you know what kind of cancer it was? We suspect osteosarcoma or chondrosarcoma. But hopefully it's one of those "not so bad" cancers..

I had to loose the collar, because Tuhka is afraid of it, after having the possible phantonpain attac. I have to sleep my eyes open, before I learn to trust that she wont't lick the wound... Any ideas, how to cover the wound or stop her grooming it?

Thanks for the message board - this has been my source of information for the past week now. =O)

Posted by "Mur_meli" (mur_meli at hotmail dot com) [12 months ago]

It's been a week from the amputation. Things have gone fairly well. Tuhka doesn't seem to be in pain, she is moving around a little, aso.
Just a couple of hours ago, Tuhka was lying under the bed. I thought my other cat went there too, and they had a fight. When I went to break them off, I realized Tuhka was under the bed by herself: skreaming, jumping, hissing. For no obvious reason. She bit me, when I tried to calm her down. After a 2 minutes or so, she was back to normal, except beeing very comfused. She stared under the bed, like there was something there that caused the pain (that's what I think it was). I called a vet, and she prescribed more painkillers. Mom went to pick them up, so now Tuhka's on the painkillers again.
It was really scary. I tried to browse thru to see, how soon after the op your cats have started to have these possible phantompains. For us, it's only been 7 days. =O(
And I have to go to work tonight.. Not the best day to return...
Mur_meli

Posted by "Linda Reynolds" (lindar06 at aol dot com) [12 months ago]

Hi Kath
Just wanted to say how sorry I was to hear about Ceefur. I hope in time you will take comfort from the fact that you did everything you could and when the time came you were able to do the best thing for him, however hard it was.

Thinking of you.

Linda x

Posted by "Kath" (kathmounce at handbag dot com) [12 months ago]

Hi Mur-meli,

I'm sorry that my timing with news of Ceefur was upsetting for you. Please take heart that Tuhka has their age on their side, Ceef was 15 so the survival rate was always going to be poorer. We saw the amputation as a chance to buy whatever precious time we could with the minimum of upset for him. It's just sad that after nearly a year we thought we had got away with it.

For pain Ceef was on metacam for about 10 days and another stronger drug I can't recall the name for 5 days. He hid away a bit so I think he was a bit sore but he could still manage 2 flights of stairs. After a couple of weeks it was like he'd never had a leg.

To everybody else all of your messages are so kind and they do really help me. Thank you all.

Kath

Posted by "Lorna" [12 months ago]

Thats so so sad Kath, I'm really sorry to read about your loss. Awful that you weren't there either I can't imagine anything worse. It's nice you had such a long time with him and loved him dearly, but I doubt that helps at the moment. I can't imagine how devastated I'd be.
I'm really sorry for you.

April-thanks for the message back. I tried to post on here a couple of weeks ago but it kept saying error then my internet died until yesterday. Timmy's now doing really well. His furs growing back well and he's really happy and content. He really does struggle to walk, but he didn't move much before anyway!

Posted by "Mur_meli" (mur_meli at hotmail dot com) [12 months ago]

Kath, I'm so sorry to hear about Ceef. Initially I was so happy to hear a cat recovering from amputation because of tumor. Now, it makes me really sad - I'm afraid that it will happen to us aswell.
Tuhka's hindleg was amputated on Thursday (4 days ago). She's been recovering quite well, except the peeing problem.. She did go to litter box this morning so, I'm hopefull again. I haven't heard the pathology results yet, so I don't know what kind of cancer we are dealing with. I hope we got the tumor out in time, but I'll live in fear that it has spread.

I am interested: what kind of pain medication did your cats have? And for how long?
Tuhka was operated in epidural.
She had fentanyl patch on for 4 days (just removed it),
bubivacain was squirted into pain cannule for 3 days (every 6 hours to make the stump numb),
metacam for 5 days,
and this morning I started gabapentin orally for maybe 3-4 weeks for neurological pain.

Tuhkas's not kept in cage, but she has collar on. And it makes her very unhappy. It's "funny" how the postop treatments vary from country to country.

Thanks to Chris and Arcie (

Posted by "Kath" (kathmounce at handbag dot com) [12 months ago]

Chris and Sue,

Thanks so much for your kind words, this site was such a comfort last year when he was diagnosed I wanted you to know that Ceef had gone.

We let our cats into our hearts and eventually they break them but we still have 12 years of our funny, noisy, naughty boy to talk and laugh about.

Kath

Posted by "SueH" (sue dot harris at dsl dot pipex dot com) [12 months ago]

Kath, I'm so sorry to hear about Ceefur. It is awful to get that news, especially when you are not at home. Take comfort that his amputation gave you a good few months together, and at least he did not suffer for long. You must be devastated but in time you will be able to remember the good times you had and all his funny ways.

I'm not a tripod cat owner but our rescue has rehomed several and they are all such brave, funny cats, so I follow goings on.

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [12 months ago]

Kath. That's so sad. We're really sorry to hear about Ceefur.

Our thoughts are with you.

Posted by "Kath" (kathmounce at handbag dot com) [12 months ago]

Dear All,

It is with a very sad heart that I am writing to let you all know that Ceefur passed away last Monday. For those who are newer to this site Ceef had his front leg amputated last October due to a large tumour on his elbow.
Unfortunately last week we were away on holiday so we had the nightmare call from the Vet. He had been rushed in unconcious with trouble breathing. When they X-rayed him they found the tumour had spread to his lungs, we had long phone conversations with the vet and decided that the kindest thng to do would be to put him to sleep if he got any worse. Within an hour he was really suffering so the choice was made.
As you can imagine we are heartbroken but he did have almost a year of good quality life after the amputation.
He had been our boy for 12 years and the house is just a shell without him.

Much love to you all and your 3 legged darlings.

Kath

Posted by "Charlotte" (charlottemoir at hotmail dot com) [12 months ago]

Jasper had a similar problem after he had the amputation, it was about a week until he went on his own (he was in the vets during this time so they emptied his bladder).

Once he had 'been' on his own he was fine after that - he had issues with the other for 2 weeks tho!

Posted by "Mur_meli" (mur_meli at hotmail dot com) [12 months ago]

Hi
I have a 6yrs old cat, Tuhka. Couple of months ago, I realized some swelling on her hindleg and took her to vet immediately. She was thinking of a) tumor in bone b) tumor in soft tissues c) arthritis d) inflammation. Antibiotics gave no result, xrays were showing some changes in bones.
3 days ago, after 3 months I first realized the swelling I took her to orthopedy to have a bone sample to be sent to pathology. Once the ortho looked thru Tuhka, he called me and said it would be better to amputate the leg now, since that's what we would end up doing anyways.. So I let him do that.
I picked her up in the evening. She was already on her feet. She went around the house with 3 legs and a stump. She ate and drank. She pooped. Only thing that was wrong, she didn't pee. So the next morning we went back in again and they emptied her bladder. I thought the problem solved, since Tuhka went to the litter twise the same day. Now I'm waiting the vet to open up, so we could get her bladder emptied again - its been 34 hours since she last peed..
Otherwise things are ok. She doesn't seem to be in pain (because of the leg, maybe the bladder makes her feel uncomfortable).
Has anyone had the same problem, that you cat hasn't peed?

(sorry, I havent read all the 169 messages, so maybe some one has mentioned it..)

We're off to see the vet again. =o(

Posted by "April" (chris at sdscotland dot co dot uk) [1 years ago]

Hi Lorna,
So glad to hear Timmy is doing so well, aren't they just amazing?! I was so worried every time Oskar attempted to do something after his op but I soon realised he would know his own limits. He decided to make a bid for freedom up the stairs after about a week and it was then that we realised he would know best what he was capable of. Its great that Timmy can do the cat flap - I have a feeling Oskar would just sit and pathetically miaow until I lifted him through it! I think I have spoiled him a bit by pandering to him wanting lifted onto sofas etc but hey, he's my boy and I love him to bits. Hope he is enjoying all his lazing about just like Oskar is.

Valerie - Poor you and Evil, you must have got such a fright when he had his phantom pains! Thanks to this site I was prepared for them but fortunately Oskar didn't get them. I think I would have been beside myself if he had even though I knew what to expect. He doesn't have a stump or anything, the vet took the whole limb away so I don't know if that made a difference. I hope that is the only episode Evil will suffer and I hope he has a speedy recovery.

Hugs to all the pussy cats. x

Posted by "lorna" [1 years ago]

Hiya April. That's really good about your cat, and real encouragaing. Timmy seems to be on his way like Oskar, finding his balance and how many steps he can go. He's doing bloody amazing, I can't believe it! He's gone out his cat flap a few times, but we prefer not to let him and be ready to let him out the door just incase he hurts himself. The Vet rang today to say his blood test has come back and his thyroid and kidneys are perfect! He wil need to go back every 3 weeks for a steroid injection as his remaining back leg is very weak, and has been for a couple of years. All in all it's amazing how well they cope! So pleased for you and Oskar and I can relax and watch Timmy enjoying lazing around again.

How is your cat Valerie? Did you find out why he was meowing and if he's ok? Fingers crossed he's ok.

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi Valerie

Yeah, we totally understand about it. Its the same way Archie did it for the first time, trying to back away from nothing... It was very scary at first as he made so much noise... *Touch wood*, he has only had 2 or 3 attacks since the accident, and I don't think he'll have any more.

I thought it would last him the rest of his life. Although, he doesn't really spend much more than a couple of hours a day on his feet! He's always on his back the lazy tike.

Glad you found the story, thats why we wrote it. I'm sure Evil will get used to it, and you will find it less worrying when it does happen. It soon passes.

Chris.

Posted by "Valerie" (zoopiglet at yahoo dot com) [1 years ago]

Hello,

I just want to say that I am so glad I found this site! Nowhere else on the internet had I seen anyone else discuss phantom pains. My cat, Evil, has recently had a similar experience.

Evil had his rear right leg amputated 10 days ago due to cancer. He was healing fine and getting back to his normal self when something strange and frightening happened two nights ago. He was laying on the couch and suddenly started yowling. I went over to the couch and found that he was up on his front legs (still laying down in the rear) and pushing himself backwards with his front legs. He seemed to not be in pain after that initial few seconds, but he was clearly distressed by the incident. Since then he has been spending more time than usual hiding under the bed.

It did not occur to me that this could be a phantom pain, but it makes perfect sense. We really thought something was instead wrong with his remaining rear leg... So thanks again for posting Archie's story - it has been most helpful.

Valerie

Posted by "April" (chris at sdscotland dot co dot uk) [1 years ago]

Lorna,
Like you, I have an older boy who has had a back leg amputated - Oskar is 16 (17 in December) but I wasn't ready, and neither was Oskar, to say goodbye to him yet.
We decided to go ahead with the op and am glad to say it was the right decision. Our boy had his op in June and is hopping around happily, in and out of the back garden and up and down the stairs.
It is always a worry with the older ones but so heartening to hear that they cope just as well and like you, I found the support everyone gave on this site really helped me through it.
The only difference in Oskar is that he lost a leg and found his voice! He is quite pathetic when he wants up onto the bed or sofa and will shout at me to lift him up (though he can manage perfectly well when I'm not there!!!)
I am so pleased your boy is doing so well - give him a gentle hug from us, and well done to you for all the excellent care you have obviously given him. xx

Posted by "lorna" (sexpistolsfan at hotmail dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi, thank you for yours messages, and reassurance.
He's walking out into the kitchen for breakfast each morning which is good. He's so wobbly and falls but he's making an effort and getting where he wants to go. Hopefully when the wound heals more it wont hurt him to fall a little bit. That sounds horrible but you know what I mean! It wont bother him or anything.
We took him to the vet yesterday and she was AMAZED how well he's doing. She said herself and the other vets never thought he'd be ok at all. They said if we had told them Friday when we picked him up that he'd be walking into the kitchen and using his litter tray they'd have never ever believed it! She watched him take a few steps and although they were very shaky she said it was brilliant-all she needed to check was that he wasn't draggin his bum on the floor. She also said the wound is healing so much better than nearly every cat she's seen that has had the same operation. Normally there's some bruising and weeping but his has none of that and is starting to scar over!
I'm so proud of my boy!!

Thank you for yours comments, they have been reassuring! x

Posted by "Charlotte" (charlottemoir at hotmail dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi Lorna,

Jasper had damage to both his back legs and had to have one removed and the other in a cast for around 5 weeks. He was extremely wobbly at first but managed to use his litter tray (messily) eventually - he was in a cage and prefered it if we left the room whilst he 'went'. Once he lost his bandages his leg was weak and would collapse but gradually built itself up as all he could do in the cage was stand and turn in a circle.

Maybe you should give him a bit of cage rest but encourage him to stand for eating ?

Hopefully your's is just a bit wobbly from the whole trauma of it and can support himself soon x

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [10 months ago]

Hi Lorna, what a terrible accident, poor old thing. Hopefully from reading the site and other peoples experiences you will see that although have your cats limb amputated is a shock at first, the both cats and owners come to terms with the new way of life very quickly, in most cases the cats adapt better than us owners. Every expierience is different and i think that it just depends on the animal how quickly they get back to being their oldselves.

Posted by "lorna" [1 years ago]

Our cat is about 18. We got him from a rescue place about 16 years so we can't be sure of his exact age.
He's had problems with his back legs for a while, they shake and are quite weak so we help him up and down on beds and the sofa. On thursday out worst nightmare happened. One of the builders working on the house next door reversed his van with the cat underneath. We don't know what happened exactly but he ran out dragging his back leg. The vet said because of his age it would be kindest to put him down. We couldn't ever do this without giving him a chance first. He's not insured, we cancelled it last year as it was just too expensive, and was £400 just for pre-op tests to see if they could amputate. It was all ok and they amputated his back leg. Yesterday I popped down but wasn't allowed to see him. They said he was eating and purring but refused to put any weight on his remaining leg. We picked him up last night and she said if he doesn't attempt to use his leg over the weekend it wont be fair on him to let him go on.
He was back to his purring, sleepy content self back home. He did get up and hobble, and drag, himself a few steps into his litter tray last night and this morning, which I'm so proud of. However he's so so shaky and his leg just gives way. Did anyone elses cat have this problem? I'm praying he'll get some strength and balance over the next few days, he did have a steroid injection after his op.

As you can imagine this has been the most stressful most painful sickening few days ever. He's the best cat and just doesn't deserve anything like this to happen, especially at his age. Any advice or comments will be appreciated

Posted by "Anastasia" [1 years ago]

Willow is doing really well, much better than I'd expected! He's maybe doing a little too well, as he keeps jumping and going up/downstairs when he really shouldn't be.

We let him out of the cage for a little while each day, especially over weekends when we're home all day. He generally just sleeps on my lap all day (so my productivity has gone way down). He's using his front leg alot more now, and I've stopped worrying he's still going to lose it. There's some nerve damage apparent still, and he doesn't quite have the fine control over his "hand" and "ankle" that he wants, but he's doing amazingly well and has plenty of time to keep improving.

We've been told to keep him in the cage for another 2-4 weeks to help him heal properly. It's hard locking him in there all the time, but we're getting a little tougher on him, it's for his own good after all.

Posted by "Charlotte" [1 years ago]

Hi Chris, Linda and everyone else,

No Jasper is lucky he's not had any twitching or 'phantom' trying to use his old leg or anything, it's just when stroking him i scratch his ear for him and he moves his head round until i'm scratching the right part !

He doesn't have a stump though as such, it was taken off at the hip as that had dislocated too so not sure if that makes a difference.

His biggest problem now is trying to understand french !!

Posted by "Linda" (lindar06 at aol dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi Everyone

Ouchie had his back leg amputated around the same time as Jasper. He too has made a brilliant recovery with no ill effects so far. He does sometimes put his head back and his stump twitches as if trying to scratch behind his ear, so we feel it only fair to help him out!
I found this site to be a real help, through what was a difficult time so thanks to Chris and everyone for their support. x

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [1 years ago]

Charlotte, does he ever sit and appear to be scratching his ear, but with the missing limb? Like waving his stump at it?

Glad to hear he's doing so well.

Posted by "Charlotte" [1 years ago]

Hi anastasia and everyone else !

Your story seems most similar to mine and Jaspers (although he wasn't shot thank god !!) as he had damaged 2 legs and it was very touch and go for a while whether they could save him.

I'm very happy to say that he has made a full recovery (minus one hind leg) and is happily hopping around all over the place, jumping as high as he ever did before and still thoroughly dominating our other cat and us !

He was kept in a cage for 6 weeks to allow his other hind leg to heal as he had broken the metatarsels, surrounding ligaments and lost a hell of a lot of skin which had to grom back from the inside out. We were lucky in that i work from home so was constantly with him and i think that helped keep his spirits up as he hates being alone or seperated in anyway.

It's been just over 3 months now and *touch wood* he's had no phantom pains or anything like that, he's just got on with it and it's like nothings happened except he can't scratch his right ear !! His fur is also virtually all grown back.

Hope Willow keeps up the excellent recovery and is back to normal very soon ! x

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [1 years ago]

Its good to hear Willow is back home.

And a nice surprise to find he's still got all four legs. Although I bet you're sick of surprises now.

I think the owners of the pets suffer more in the recovery period than the pet themselves. They just seem to "get on with life". Its something that most of us could do with learning from them.

All you can do for Willow, is give him time and care. Show him you're there for you, which we know you'll do anyway. He'll slowly start getting back to his old ways and everything will get easier over time.

Archie's house mates still bow down to him. Its made no difference that he's got one leg less than them. He still rules the nest. Looking at photos of him with four legs is odd now. We can't remember him with all of them any more!

Good to hear he's home anyway.

Posted by "Anastasia" [1 years ago]

Willow came home yesterday. He looks ok, but I'm almost scared to touch him. He's really skinny from not eating all the time he was missing, and with his legs shaved they look so fragile.

They managed to pin both fractures, I guess the front one wasn't as bad as it looked on the xray. The vet his hoping he'll be ok now, though he's got to go back for another operation next week to remove the rest of the bullets from him, and check up on his legs.

I just sat watching him for hours last night. We let him out the cage to walk around the house a little, he's moving ok, but isn't really using his front leg at all. He's just hoping around on three legs, and not really putting the front one down at all. He's using it to reach up to things though, so he has movement, but doesnt seem to want to put any weight on it. Maybe it's sore or stiff.. I dont know.

He managed to clamber up onto my lap where I was sitting on the floor, and promptly fell asleep just like his old self. His brother doesn't know what to make of him, keeps hissing at him. I guess Willow smells of vets and disinfectant. Hopefully they'll get on together soon. I'm keeping a close eye on them though!

I'll keep you posted with progress. Just now, he seems ok, but awfully small and fragile.

Posted by "Alison" (alisonkprior at yahoo dot co dot uk) [1 years ago]

Anastasia, I read about Willow in the Evening News through the week, and saw the pictures. I felt SO angry reading your story - I really hope the pinning is a success and you can bring your wee friend home soon. Again, best of luck

Posted by "April" (chris at sdscotland dot co dot uk) [1 years ago]

Anastasia,

How awful about your poor wee Willow! You must be beside yourself with worry, I know how I was with Oskar and we chose to have this operation done.
Like you, I found great comfort in reading other stories about amputees and chatting to other cat owners - we are a great bunch and always help whenever someone needs reassurance about their kitty. I found this site useful and also chatted with a few cat lovers on the Feline Forum of catchat.org
My heart goes out to you and Willow and we will all be thinking about you. I agree with Chris about love and attention for Willow coz I think Oskar is doing so much better for all the love and attention he is getting from us.
Take care.

April

Posted by "Alison" (alisonkprior at yahoo dot co dot uk) [1 years ago]

Anastasia, I just read your story and I'm utterly shocked! Your poor, poor cat. What is positive is that Willow may only have to lose one leg. He'll bounce back from that physically, I'm sure.
I had my cat in a cage when he first came home after his accident. Max was in an RTA and had a shattered pelvis and required major surgery to his stomach. As a result, he formed a blood clot in his front leg, which caused the leg to slowly die off. So we effectively had a cat who could only really use one front leg for a number of weeks! He shocked us with how well he coped....
You'll be amazed at what Willow will manage! Once he's home and settled, you'll be able to gauge how much mobility he has and you'll know when to let him out the cage.
I'm so sorry to hear your story, and I really wish you and Willow the best of luck.

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [1 years ago]

April, its great to hear that Oskar is doing well.

Anastasia, what a terrible story! How people shoot cats is beyond me.

We didn't use a dog cage with Archie, but with only 2 legs left, recovery will definitely be improved if Willow uses one.

He'll just need a lot of care and love. He'll need reassuring that you're there for him.

It will be a long road for you both, and we wish you the best of luck.

Posted by "Anastasia" (stasi dot monkey at gmail dot com) [1 years ago]

I've been reading as many sites as I can about this recently, and have found the information here very useful.

My cat Willow was found 2 days ago by the SSPCA after being missing since 7th June. I thought he'd just wandered off somewhere, but what I was told by the vet has shocked me to the core. He was found, many miles from home, on a farm looking very poorly. They suspected a RTA and took him to the vet, xrays showed something very different though. He's been shot with an air rifle over 10 times, the pellets seem to have missed his vital organs, but unfortunately he has a broken back left leg, and a smashed front left leg. The vet doesn't think the front leg will be savable, so we're preparing ourselves for amputation.

I'm worried now about the care he's going to need when he comes home. I see dog cages being mentioned on a few sites to restrict his movement, and I'm really worried that with two broken legs he's going to need alot of care and attention.

Reading stories about cats that have gone through amputation and recovered has been incredibly helpful over these last couple of days. Thank you.

Posted by "SueH" (sue dot harris at dsl dot pipex dot com) [1 years ago]

Glad he's doing so well. We've just heard from someone who last year homed one of our tripod cats, Cody, and they report he is doing really well and holding his own with his feline housemates who don't treat him any differently.

Posted by "April" (chris at sdscotland dot co dot uk) [1 years ago]

Oskar came home on Wednesday and is looking fab.
He was a little stressed when I let him out of his cat basket but once he was in his doggy cage he was a very happy and purring pussy. He has now gotten over his initial stress and is a very "chilled" old man; coming out of his cage when we are in the house and happily going back in when we need to go out or when it is bed time. He is getting around very well on his 3 legs but I am trying to restrict him so he doesn't over work the muscles on his remaining leg too much. He is recovering so well that he actually made a bid for freedom out the back door this morning, luckily my husband Chris can move faster than a three-legged Oskar!
We've had a couple of wee mis-haps, one with the litter tray and one when he rushed out of his cage and banged his wound causing a tiny little blood spotting, but apart from that it all seems to be going well. He has a great appetite and everything else is functioning normally. He has even found his voice after all these years of being the strong, silent type! He certainly has no problems in letting us know when he would like to come out of his cage or would like some more food please.
He is back to the vet on Monday for a check-up but I think the vet is going to be really pleased with him.
I am very proud of the way my wee old man has coped with such a big operation and how he has totally forgiven me for putting him through it.
Thanks again for listening.
April x

Posted by "Chris" [1 years ago]

We're glad to hear you're feeling more positive. Hopefuly a sign of the future!

Posted by "April" (chris at sdscotland dot co dot uk) [1 years ago]

Hi everyone,

Oskar had his operation today and it went very well. I visited him for an hour after work and was surprised at just how great he is doing. He hopped out of his cage, managing very well on 3 legs, and purred and cuddled me while I made a huge fuss of him. He is staying in over night so they can monitor him - I must admit I am happier that he stayed in coz I think I would just have worried all night! I have to phone in the morning to see how he has been and find out when we can bring him home.
I'll keep you posted on his progress.

Posted by "April" (chris at sdscotland dot co dot uk) [1 years ago]

Hi Chris,

I have already read Archie's whole story and have looked at all his photos so hopefully I am now as prepared as I can be. Thanks for the reassuring words though.

I called the vet when I got home from work today and spoke to an incredibly nice and very helpful nurse who answered all my anxious mummy questions and told me a story about another amputee who is a bit younger than Oskar but who also had liver problems and he is thriving.

We are now fasting for the operation tomorrow morning - well poor Oskar is anyway! I'll let you know how it all goes and how we both cope.

ps Archie is a gorgeous wee man by the way!

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi April

You'll see from this site, that most people have great concerns, and its not surprising really. However, you will also be surprised at how quickly Oskar will return to his old self.

Apart from the initial shock of the missing leg, I think that the cat will recover quicker than its owner, but saying this, I do believe they try and recover quicker than they should, and this results in a certain amount of depressiveness. I know Archie hid under a nursing chair for a couple of weeks after the operation and wasn't really himself. But it didn't last too long, and he soon returned to his old mischievous self.

The best advice anyone can give you, is to be caring and reassuring for Oskar, and as you've taken the week off I can only imagine he's going to be fine.

All we did was keep Archie inside until his stitches came out. And that was really the hardest thing as he loves it outside. And I think this is what depressed him the most. But that was a small price to pay, better than him ripping his stitches out!

So, just give him love and attention.

PS. Read the section about on "phantom" above, just to give you some for-warning.

Posted by "April" (chris at sdscotland dot co dot uk) [1 years ago]

Hi Everyone,

This is my first time on this site and I was directed here by a cat chatter on Feline Forum as my old boy Oskar is having a limb amputated on Tuesday.

Oskar's story is that we discovered a lump on his back hock joint ages ago but the vet originally put it down to arthritis. We took him into the vet a few months back as the lump had grown considerably even though he was on metacam. It was at this visit that the vet decided that a biopsy was needed and from this we discovered that it was actually a malignant lump on the joint and the only options available to us were to have the limb amputated or to have our wee boy PTS. We were devastated as we weren't sure that amputation was an option because Oskar is 16 years old and we felt we couldn't put him through such a large operation. However, after chatting to a few people on the Feline Forum we felt a bit more positive only to discover another lump on one of his front legs. Back to the vet we went, with very heavy hearts I must add. The vet however was more positive and, after thorough examination and monitoring the lump over a few weeks, was almost certain it was just arthritis. The decision was then made to go ahead with the operation.

As I said earlier, his operation is on Tuesday and I was wondering if anyone has any advice on post amputation care? I have borrowed a decent sized doggy cage, have soft bedding and will make sure I have some nice fish for him. I have taken the rest of the week off work so I can be here for him as I feel he will cope better emotionally if I am around.

I am now in a bit of a panic about the whole thing and really wish I didn't have to put him through it but he is as bright as a button and I don't think he is ready to give up on life yet.

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi Alison.

Sounds like Max is enjoying a massage. I felt a little bit weird giving Archie a massage, but I know it relaxes him. And he does like rolling around stretching, but he always used to!

Posted by "Alison" (alisonkprior at yahoo dot co dot uk) [1 years ago]

Hi everyone, I posted on here a couple of months ago, but I haven't had any replies. Hope all your tri-pods are doing well! Just wanted to let you all know that I had a chiropractor out to Max (who was in an RTA last year and lost a front leg as a result). I've always felt his pelvis was a little squint. I had a 'Mctimony' specialist out to see my horse (natural manipulation of bones rather than the usual cracking), and asked if she could also look at the cat. She was able to detect all his tight muscles and where he was still sore. I have some wee exercises to do with him now to ensure his muscles stop knotting up. So, well worth it I think! He seems to be much more happy and definitely spends more time stretched out on the carpet and rolling around! May be something to think about if your cats still seem to be in pain after their operations?

Posted by "Charlotte" [1 years ago]

Hi everyone

Jasper is doing really well, our problem now is restricting his running and hiding so he's got a huge 'bucket' on whenever he is allowed out of his cage. His leg is healing well and although he's still very wobbly to start with and likes to be near a wall there is no stopping him ! He spends a lot of time sitting at the bottom of the stairs looking longingly but any kind of jumping is still restricted for a few weeks yet to let the leg heal fully.

I'm amazed how fast he can move when he wants to and never thought i'd be chasing him again ! Jasper's naughtiness hasn't been amputated either ! And our other cat is gradually getting used to him and spending more than 30 seconds at a time in the same room.

It's been an horrific experience but i'm so happy that he has never seemed to be in pain or suffering really (even straight after the accident but suppose shock helped then). So grateful to our wonderful vet and nurses for giving him the chance as it was touch and go for a few days whether they could even consider saving him.

Hope everyone else is recovering well and soon charging around again x

Posted by "Kath" (kathmounce at handbag dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi Everyone,
Poor Ouchie and especially poor Jasper - sounds like he is having a really rough time. My boy Ceefur had his front leg amputated in November due to bone cancer. Just to reassure you he is now great. He could walk and run straightaway but did go through 3 weeks of hiding away and about a month of seeming depressed. He is almost normal and as a good friend said the other day his naughtiness was not amputated!! He has learnt to do difficult tasks in new ways but still tries to 'use' the missing limb for washing and playing and as Chris said about Archie he does have a tendancy to be clumsy.
I totally understand your worries about letting them outside again - I was terrified. Ceef had a few falls from the fence and sat mewing to be rescued from the shed roof a few times but I think now he understands that he can't do that anymore. He is 14 now so I think he's quite happy to just sit in the fresh air.

When all this started I never thought that he would be as healthy again as he is now.

Kath

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [1 years ago]

Yeah, Archie amazes me when he walks on top of the fences.

His back leg now appears to have progressively shifted to the middle of his undercarriage, so its probably easier to balance on it. They're so resilient.

Had no phantom pain attacks for a while now. Can't remember the last one.

Posted by "Linda Reynolds" (lindar06 at aol dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi Everyone, well it has been only 3 weeks since Ouchie had his back leg amputated and to be honest apart from not being able to scratch behind his ear, he doesn't seem to notice that it is missing. He has started going outside again for a few hours a day when we are home, not an easy decision but he was desperate to go out and it seemed unfair to keep him in especially as he is such a young cat. He can climb and run just as well as before and although the vet said he may have problems balancing when walking along the tops of fence panels, Ouchie obviously wasn't listening and has no problems at all. He does get more tired than he used to as I guess walking on 3 legs takes a bit more effort but I can't believe what progress he has made. I am very proud of my little guy!

Posted by "Charlotte" [1 years ago]

Hi Linda, Jasper's accident was on the 14th, his op was on the 16th and he was in the vets until the 23rd. He's doing well so far but needs to be kept in his cage for 6-8 weeks which is going to be very trying as he HATES being confined in any way but it's a necessary evil !

He finally went to the loo fully last night and is using his litter tray regularly. Our other cat will not go anywhere near him and is very freaked out and has taken to urinating on my grandmothers bed ! (anyone any tips on how to stop this other than shutting the door ?)

I know what you mean about letting them outside again, i'm not sure i'll ever be able to but it would not be for a long time anyway as we are moving to france soon after 'cage rest' ends. Jasper has always loved hunting, but i will go with the flow and see how he recuperates, he may not want to go out ! For the time being we have bought a large bird table and positioned it so he can watch it all day long and he is chattering away to them most of the time !

There's not a right word for it but i'm 'glad' others have gone through the same kind of trauma and really appreciate this site and being able to see other's recovery stories.

Posted by "Linda Reynolds" (lindar06 at aol dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi Charlotte
Glad Jasper is doing well. Interested to read your note as it seems Ouchie and Jasper had their operations on the same day, although "luckily" for Ouchie it was only 1 leg that was badly damaged and somehow the others were fine. Ouchie is also now back on his food and is desperate to go out again. He looks through the window longingly at the birds outside. Vet says he can go out again when his stitches are out but this is a really scarey thought for me so hoping to confine him to the garden for a while, I'm not quite ready for him to go into the big, wide world again just yet!

Posted by "Charlotte" (charlottemoir at hotmail dot com) [1 years ago]

Jasper has been home since Monday and is doing well, eating like a little piggy and using his litter tray (gradually getting less messy each time !) although he's not yet had a poo but vet checked him yesterday and is not worried about that as he is still eating well and we are mixing liquid paraffin with his food to 'help him along'.

Thanks for all your support - it's really helped me get through the last few days. I'm so pleased he is home and he is now addicted to listening to classic fm whilst relaxing in his cage !

Posted by "Alison" [1 years ago]

Hi Charlotte, your boy is perhaps not eating due to the pain he is in. Max did not pee for the first few nights after he was hit. This was also due to all the swelling and pain of his broken pelvis / ripped abdomen. He was fed through a tube for a while and was on a drip (the drip caused the blood clot in front leg, hence why the leg was removed). Ligaments can be sorer than broken bones....plus he's lost a leg! Poor man! Also, because he's in the vet, a strange environment....he can't get into his litter tray (and it's probably too sore to push!!) and all his food smells funny, no wonder he doesn't want to eat or pee! I found with my cat, if I warmed his cooked fresh chicken, he would nibble at it that way. I really hope he's doing ok. Cat's bounce back very quickly....good luck. x

Posted by "Alison" (alisonkprior at yahoo dot co dot uk) [1 years ago]

Max had his front leg removed due to an RTA. He had a broken pelvis and a lot of surgery done to his abdomen. Just when we thought things were getting better, he formed a blood clot in his leg. After a few days of trying to treat the clot and seeing specialists, it was decided that his leg would have to be removed. It was going rotten!! 4 months on, he is now completely back to normal, perhaps a little more stream-lined, but doing all the things he used to do....and more!!
He has never shown signs have having phantom limb pain, nor does he really try to use his missing 'leg' to carry out routine tasks. A couple of nights ago he woke us up with an almighty wail and scream, like the noises he made when he was first hit by the car. We immediately jumped up and comforted him....and he looked at us as if we'd woken him from his peaceful slumber. He proceeded to purr his head off....has anyone experienced their amputee having nightmares or being a little traumatised from their accidents!?

Posted by "Linda Reynolds" (lindar06 at aol dot com) [1 years ago]

....sorry, posted before I had finished! Anyway it has been a really awful week, although I am just glad that he is still with us and back at home. It has been really helpful to read of other peoples experiences, so thanks Archie!

Posted by "Linda Reynolds" (lindar06 at aol dot com) [1 years ago]

My cat Ouchie, had to have his back leg amputated on Wednesday. I came home from work on Tuesday afternoon and he greeted me with his back leg hanging and blood everywhere. Still not sure how he got home but very glad he did. He came home yesterday and seemed really pleased to be home but today he seems a bit down and is definitely off his food.

Posted by "Chris Tate-Davies" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [1 years ago]

Yes, that must be horrible for Jasper, but as anyone on this site will tell you, cats are extremely resilient.

It will be hard going, but hopefully, other people's stories will keep you string.

Posted by "Charlotte" (charlottemoir at hotmail dot com) [1 years ago]

Thanks Chris, he's got the added trouble of his remaining back leg being damaged and all bandaged up but the vet did say yesterday that he had tried to stand up.

I just want him to come home, i'm sure he'll be much better once he gets back in familiar surroundings as he is such a sociable cat.

Posted by "Charlotte" (charlottemoir at hotmail dot com) [1 years ago]

Thanks Sue, he is still in the vets at the moment so they are keeping an eye on him but i will ask them about the food as the nurse did say the other day that the food he gets at home may constipate him if he is not moving around much.

I'm waiting from an update from them today as they are reassessing him this afternoon but am going out of my mind with worry.

Posted by "Chris Tate-Davies" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi Charlotte,

Archie didn't go to the toilet for a couple of days, and when he finally did, it looked like a lot of trouble for him.

He soon got over it, but I would talk to the vet just to be on the safe side.

It might have been down to his new inability to balance properly on his back leg.

Let us know how it goes,

Chris.

Posted by "Sue" (sue dot harris at dsl dot pipex dot com) [1 years ago]

Try to get him to drink: cat milk, tuna or fishy water, chicken stock (UNSALTED)

Posted by "Sue" (sue dot harris at dsl dot pipex dot com) [1 years ago]

Charlotte, I have no experience with this and I hope others will post but do speak to your vet as soon as possible about this. You can get high-cal easy to eat food for convalescence from them (Hills

Posted by "Charlotte" (charlottemoir at hotmail dot com) [1 years ago]

Our cat Jasper was hit by a car on saturday morning, he damaged both back legs and has had to have the right one amputated. It's the ligaments in his left leg that are damaged and we are told he will need to be kept in a cage for 6-8 weeks for these to heal fully before he can learn to walk on 3 legs.

I'm finding it very hard to cope with all the worry about him and now he's hardly eating and hasn't been to the loo yet on his own (5 days after accident/3 days after surgery).

Has anyone else had this problem with their cat ?

I'm so scared there is something else wrong with him.

Posted by "Stephanie and Monkee" (steffers68 at gmail dot com) [1 years ago]

Thank you for this website. Monkee is undergoing an amputation of his right rear leg today due to a invasive cancerous tumor. I am of course devastated and am horribly worried about him. It's good to see a real story of a cat's survival and adaptation to life as a tri-ped.

Posted by "Chris Tate-Davies" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi Kath.

Sounds like Ceef was getting stressed out, maybe due to him getting frustrated about not being quite as mobile as he once was. Glad to hear he's getting on a lot better with the diffuser. We used some for when we moved house and it helped no end.

Posted by "Kath" (kathmounce at handbag dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi All,

I'm sorry to hear that Archie has had another attack, maybe it's a one off, he might have overdone it now that he's recovered so much.

Update on Ceef, before Christmas I was worried as he seemed depressed and was not improving, I bought a 'Feliway' diffuser from the vets and within 2 weeks he was a different cat. he's stopped pulling his fur out (previously bald and bleeding 2 legs and wound), his wound has healed, shrunk and the fur has grown. He's playing like a kitten (a few falls involved though!) and we eventually let him outside on his own ( I was having stress attacks indoors :) ). He terrified us by managing to jump up on the 6 foot fence but after 20 minutes made it back. I think he has learnt that the fence is a bit much, especially the drop our side but my husband is planning a ramp for him just in case. We don't let him out in the dark and luckily it is so bitterly cold he does not stay out longer than a few minutes. My sister visited and was stunned at how 'normal' he is. I'm sure there will still be up and down days but on the whole considering it's not even been 2 months yet and he is over 13 I think he's doing pretty well. His balance and strength is 100% better.

Hope all your babies are recovering well too. happy New Year!

Kath

Posted by "Bryony" (bryonyp at yahoo dot com) [1 years ago]

So sorry to hear that Archie had another attack. I know what you mean about the wailing, we ruled out limb pain as the cause of Casper's but the noise is extraordinary and very distressing.

Its sad that life will never be quite the same for any of our furry babes, Casper is doing a lot better these days, he is much less angry about everything and has just about figured out that if everything is going wrong, the best option is to just sit down. I think his remaining back leg must be getting stronger as he is not having as much trouble as he was, but he still has a tendancy for his back end to sway wildly when he doesn't put enough thought into how to walk.

Lots of love to you and to Archie, from Bryony

Posted by "Chris Tate-Davies" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [1 years ago]

Well, our new year didn't start as well as we'd hope.

Archie had another phantom leg attack this weekend. It didn't last long, but as we hadn't had much to worry about for so long, it was quite shocking. I'd forgotten how heart wrenching his cries of pain were.

He was happily sat out the front of the house, and when he came in he couldn't put weight on his back end. After about 10 minutes and a sit on the stairs he was fine again. Odd, but a reminder that he's never going to be free of these attacks.

Posted by "Kath" (Kathmounce at handbag dot com) [1 years ago]

Happy Christmas everyone. I hope you all have a good time and a happy New Year.

Lets hope our poor puss cats have better luck in 2009. Thanks to you all for your support over the last few horrible weeks, especially to Chris and Archie.

Lots of love

Kath

Posted by "Clare" (clare_agate at yahoo dot com) [1 years ago]

Sammy is about 3'ish, not 100% sure as we got him from cat protection about a year ago. He seems to be coping well, although definately has his off days! He too howls to go out again, but we are not considering it before Christmas. My husband is very keen to let him out shortly after new year but I am just petrified.

We bought him a harness and have taken him in the garden. All he does is just lay down on the patio, my husband thinks he's content, but I think he is just trying to lull him into a false sense of security that all he wants to do is lay down and he might aswell take the harness off!

The (not so) funny thing is, our other cat jess has been limping around the last couple of weeks on the same leg that Sammy had amputated!! One day she can hardly put any weight on it, and the next day she'll be fine?! We think she's getting confused and thinks all cats should walk like Sammy!! We did take her to the verts last night, the vet had a bit of a laugh at the irony of her limping on the same leg and suspects she has a muscle injury! Fingers crossed it gets better with antiinflammetories otherwise it is x-rays for her next week!!

Glad everyone elses little ones are doing well, like has been said Ceef may take a little longer because of his age, but I am sure he will adapt really well!

Clare

Posted by "Lindsay" (turner_357 at msn dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi Kath
Yes Paddy is mobilising really well, a bit slow but otherwise i'm quite suprised at how well he's doing. He's only 18 months old though so he's a very fit and active cat which helps. Maybe Ceefurs struggling a bit because of his age.
Paddy had me awake most of the night crying to go out which was a bit upsetting. Thinking of getting him a lead?! I'm trying to give him as much love and attention as possible but I think he just wants to be left alone at the moment he keeps wagging his tail at me!
Hope your puddy cat is feeling better soon x

Posted by "Kath" (kathmounce at handbag dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi guys,

Poor Ceef is just coming up to 14 so he really is the grandad. I think his off days might be due to general aches and pains which have been made worse by the lack of a leg.

He was much brighter last night, lots of purring and dribbling!!

Posted by "Bryony" (bryonyp at yahoo dot com) [2 yearss ago]

Casper is only 3 1/2, Mum seems to think if he was older and less active, he'd have coped better!

Posted by "Chris Tate-Davies" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi guys.

How old are your respective cats? I wonder if Archie has recovered so quickly because he's relatively young (4 years old)

Posted by "Bryony" (bryonyp at yahoo dot com) [1 years ago]

I think Casper is a little ahead of Ceef, can't quite remember, but his movement is still not great. Sometimes he is absolutely fine and can move quite quickly, but other times he gets confused and ends up going backwards or sideways which makes him very angry.

We have now ruled out phantom limb pain as going back on metacam made no difference whatsoever. The vet thinks he is just frustrated and angry, sometimes he will growl and yell when he gets like this and it sounds quite feral, if you try to pick him up or anything, he will just bite and he was never a bitey cat before.

The vet has prescribed time, hopefully in a few months he will have come to terms with the loss of his leg and figured out how to get around the best. Mum feels awful as he is just not the same cat he was before the accident.
Hope all your furries are doing well! Bryony x

Posted by "Kath" (kathmounce at handbag dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi Chris,

We didn't put Ceef on a harness as he is very bad at coping with anything like that, my husband watched him to make sure he didn't try and jump onto the fence. He just walked around sniffing and spraying mostly!

Poor ceef was a bit quiet last night, I could not get him to purr which is odd and he has licked his scar raw again, I think it's a bit of depression as he is very up and down. I'm going to the vets to pick up a Felaway vaporiser tonight, that might calm him a bit.

Lindsay - how is Paddy moving, Ceef still seems quite staggery and his balance is poor. Especially last night so I'm wondering if he's had a tumble and that's why he was quiet.

I think lots of cuddles are in order!

Kath

Posted by "lindsay" (turner_357 at msn dot com) [1 years ago]

Thanks Kath
Sorry to hear about your cat and glad to hear he's recovering well.
Paddys doing ok hes feeling very sorry for himself but then again so would I! It is heartbreaking to watch him.
He's getting around really even managed to jump onto my daughters top bunk for a nap!
Cant imagine letting him outside any time soon i'd be worried sick.

Posted by "Chris Tate-Davies" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi Kath.

Perhaps he'll learn to land on his back legs!?!?

Did you use a harness to take Ceef out at the weekend? We bought a cat harness for Archie when he was first allowed out. He did not like it at all!

Now, he's got the run of the land as I fitted a cat flap in the new house. I don't worry about him anymore as he's shown me that I have nothing to worry about, he's just like his old self, just a bit unsteady on his feet when climbing a dry stone wall!

Lindsay, hope everything is going okay and Paddy is coping well.

Chris.

Posted by "Kath" (kathmounce at handbag dot com) [1 years ago]

.....sorry I meant jumping on the 'bed' not 'bad' and I do 'worry' not 'wotty'!!! Fat finger syndrome today!!

:)

Posted by "Kath" (kathmounce at handbag dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi Lindsay,

My cat Ceefur had his front leg amputated a month ago after the vet found a tumour. He was running (hopping) up the stairs and jumping on the bad by day 3. They recover amazingly. He has also learnt to stand on his back legs to wash his face. The first couple of weeks are very stressful. I do wotty about Ceef trying to jump off of something too high as all their weight is now on one front leg and as Clare says letting him go outside frightens me, although he did have a supervised visit to the garden this weekend.

Feel free to ask any questions and I will try and answer with our experience of Ceef.

Best wishes.

Kath

Posted by "Lindsay" (turner_357 at msn dot com) [1 years ago]

Paddy is home and he's not as bad as I thought! He's walking really well and is his usual greedy self. He's fast asleep in front of the fire at the moment.
Thankyou for you advice and support xxx

Posted by "Clare" (clare_agate at yahoo dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi,

This website is a great source of information! Our cat was run over a couple of weeks ago, and he had his left back leg amputated. He is doing really well, and like others have said cats are really resilliant and just adapt!

We are very worried still about Sammy going out again, although we are going to wait until he is completely happy on 3 legs before we even think about it!!

Hope everything goes well today!

Clare

Posted by "Chris Tate-Davies" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi Lindsay,

I'm sorry to hear this. This sounds all too familiar. As you might have read on this site, quite a few people here have experienced the same. Hopefuly, the talk and articles on this site will put your mind at rest somewhat.

Its going to be a very tough time for you and your cat, but with a lot of love and patience then you will be fine.

As you might have read, cats are very resilient, and now, after 5 months or so, Archie is absolutely fine. He still commands the respect of the house, and my other 2 four legged cats are still ruled by him. He's not in anyway impeded by his disability. It was tough at first, but we got through it, and this is why we wrote this site to help out other people.

My advice would be to read Archie's story, and all the posts on this site to see what experiences we all have gone through so you are aware and prepared.

Let us know how you get on and if you have any more questions, then please don't hesitate to get on touch with us.

Thanks, Chris, Michelle and Archie.

Posted by "Lindsay" (turner_357 at msn dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi
My cat got run over last night. His front leg is completely smashed. He's having it amputated tomorrow I'm gutted. Any advice would be greatly appreciated xx

Posted by "Michelle" (angelic dot michelle at googlemail dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi Bryony
This sounds exactly like Archie's attacks, he sounded like he was in a lot of pain, then they ended as quick as they started. Hope it goes ok tomorrow

Posted by "Bryony" (bryonyp at yahoo dot com) [1 years ago]

Sadly Caspers backwards walking seems to be getting worse, and his episodes now involved crying, growling and even biting anyone who comes near him or tries to pick him up. More and more I am thinking that maybe he is suffering from phantom limb pain and we are booked into the vets tomorrow morning.
Strangely, when the episode has passed, he is more friendly and soppy than he used to be and will sit and drool on mums knee, which he would very rarely do before. I will certainly be mentioning archie's phantom limb pain at the vets as before I found this site I knew nothing about it!
Bryony x

Posted by "Kath" (kathmounce at handbag dot com) [1 years ago]

Thanks Chris,

Yet again you have made me feel better. I think vet's surgeries should have this website address to give out to clients, you helped with my initial panics and devastation so much.

Kath

Posted by "Chris Tate-Davies" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi Kath

I know its hard to see Ceef struggling, but cats are extremely resilient and he will work out a way round it. I know Archie only has one back leg, but he can scratch his ear with the other one with no support now.

I think it just takes them time to get adjusted.

All you can do is give him love and support, make him realise he's not going through it on his own.

Chris.

Posted by "Kath" (kathmounce at handbag dot com) [1 years ago]

Poor Ceef has had long term problem with his ear and has chronic inflammation, by bad luck this is the side that has the paw missing, it's upsetting watching him trying to wash and scratch his ear, his poor little stump waggles and he leans his head down towards it. He does not yet have the balance to scratch it with his back paw, he manages sometimes if we hold his side. We are hoping the drops we are using will ease it.

Kath

Posted by "Chris Tate-Davies" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [1 years ago]

Yes, Archie still does it regularly. Must be him just "forgetting" about his loss. Doesn't seem to bother him, he never looks confused that the paw is not connecting...

We just have to brush him more often to ensure he has less knots and tangles in his fur. Can only imagine how horrible it must be not being able to scratch an itch!

Posted by "Bryony" (bryonyp at yahoo dot com) [1 years ago]

I love the litterbox description, at least he's trying though, my 2 rescue girls think that scratching the plastic rim of the litter box is what they are supposed to do, I guess mum told them to dig/scratch, but not where to do it or why!
Casper still moves his stump as if the leg were still attached, when he stretches the stump stretches etc.

Posted by "Kath" (kathmounce at handbag dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi Chris,

Ceef tries to do things with his missing leg all the time, the muscles move and the stump moves around, he even pushes the stump forward and licks the air as if he is licking his paw, he's quite funny in his litter tray as he waves his stump at any deposits for a few minutes and then walks away content that he's buried it.

Interesting to know that Archie is still doing that. I found it upsetting at first but Ceefur does not seem too concerned.

Kath

Posted by "Chris Tate-Davies" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [1 years ago]

The walking backwards thing sounds a lot like Archie. He looked confused about it all, which gave the impression he wasn't in control. Perhaps speak to the vet about it. We did and got 3 weeks worth of painkillers which stopped it immediately.

One thing we've noticed is that Archie is still trying to scratch himself with his missing leg. He sits there and you can see the muscles in the stump moving as he's trying to itch his face. He just forgets that its gone sometimes.

We have to brush him more often these days to make up for it.

Its going to take Ceef, Casper and Sammy a while to get used to not having the leg. I can't imagine what its like to wake up with one missing. I can't think how long it takes for the pain to go away, but be patient, they'll be fine.

We're moving house next week. I'm a little worried how Archie is going to cope with that!

Posted by "Bryony" (bryonyp at yahoo dot com) [2 yearss ago]

Great news about Ceef, and sorry to hear that sammy has an infection, hopefully now the stitch is out it will clear up. Caspers wound is starting to get covered up by some new fur now, but we are still concerned about his walking backwards sometimes. If you watch him when he does it, its as if his back end is in control and he can't do anything about it. Mum is worried that there is some neurological damage causing it. bryony x

Posted by "Kath" (kathmounce at handbag dot com) [1 years ago]

Poor Sammy - he's having a tough time.
Ceef had his stitches out on Monday and has been much happier since, back to normal really. Last night he stood up on his haunches and washed his own face (well half of it!!) he looked very sweet, clever boy. Ceef is only a week or so in front of Sammy so hopefully you can see the light at the end of the tunnel.

Kath

Posted by "Clare" (clare_agate at yahoo dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi All,

The visit to the vets went well, slight infection where one of the stitches were so they have taken that stitch out to make it a bit more comfortable. We are now bathing the wound twice a day in salty water. Poor thing is now full of a cold! He is sneezing and spluttering all the time and finding it quite difficult to sleep, I guess because he is so run down!

Clare

Posted by "Kath" (kathmounce at handbag dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi Clare,
Glad to hear Sammy is doing well, Ceef behaved like a toddler too. Good luck at the vets, Ceef is going tonight to have his stitches out.

Hope you get a present in the litter tray today!Ceef's digestion was a bit sluggish but now he's started he can't stop!!! :)

Kath

Posted by "Chris Tate-Davies" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi Clare.

Its great to hear that Sammy is home and doing well.

Archie took his time to go to the toilet. I was a little worried as I read on the internet about bladder injuries, etc. But what I think it was, was he was locked in the house and wasn't used to using the litter tray... In the end, he went though and both he and I were relieved!

Is he on painkillers? He might be a bit groggy from them... I know Arch was.

Good luck at the vets tomorrow night. Hope all is okay for you and Sammy.

Chris, Michelle and Archie.

Posted by "Clare" (clare_agate at yahoo dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi,

Sammy is still doing well, although today he has wanted to spend all day either in the sofa, or in our bedroom on his own. Don't know if it is phantom limb pain, but every so often he will lie down and his whole body starts tensing up like he is in pain, it quickly passes and he is back to normal.

One thing I am very worried about is the fact that he is not going to the toilet, he seems to be passing a small amount of urine but not the other (!). The vet has said he would be concerned if nothing has happened by tomorrow, and we're nearly there. He is due at the vets again tomorrow evening so just really hope there is not more damage than the vets realised.

Clare

Posted by "Clare" (clare_agate at yahoo dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi,

Great news, Sammy came home on Thursday afternoon and it's been like having a toddler in the house ever since!! When we picked him up the vet said he was concerned that he was making no attempt to stand up and they hoped that sending him home would encourage him. Well, when we got him home we gently lifted him out of the cat basket and he ran to the other end of the house!

He's doing really well so far, he is really mobile and seems to be coping really well. No phantom limb pains as yet, but it is still very early days!

Clare

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [1 years ago]

That sounds exactly like Archie's first bout. Except he was crying out like he was in pain. He was backing up the wall...

I think its confusion more than anything. It'll pass very quickly I'm sure.

Posted by "Bryony" (bryonyp at yahoo dot com) [1 years ago]

We aren't sure what is causing it yet, but since Casper has been allowed to roam further than the contents of his cage, sometimes he will stop walking and start going backwards. Its pretty random as to when it happens, he was sitting down the other night, and as he was getting up, he started going backwards, right over my leg as I was sitting on the floor.

He doesn't cry or anything so its hard to know if its pain causing it or something else.

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [1 years ago]

It was very scary when it first happened because we just didn't know what the problem was.

I was convinced his leg had become dislocated as he was howling... But it appeared to just be these Phantom Pains.

I imagine its very hard to adjust. It would be for us anyway...

And as for the first venture outside, I bought a cat harness to begin with but he wasn't having any of it and just sat outside in a grump! We took it off him and he just hopped around a bit (probably happy to be free again.)

We only had one scare where he vanished for the day, but since then its fine. We lock him in at night now anyway...

Thanks, Chris

Posted by "Kath" (kathmounce at handbag dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi Chris,
Ceef does not seem to have had the phantom pains that you have described, he has been twitching his shoulder but I think it's the scar itching as it heals. I think that maybe hind leg amputations might be more likely to get problems as it is such a big muscle.
Ceef was not too great last night, he didn't seem to be moving as well, he would not settle and was a bit groany. I think he might be aching from adjusting to his new method of moving. I'm so paranoid about him damaging his good leg that I got a bit upset. I'm going to talk to my vet friend today. It hasn't even been a week yet so I guess he will get aches and pains. I am living in total fear of the day we have to let him go outside again. He is a terrible fighter and our garden has six foot fences all around it so I hope he doesn't get himself into trouble.
Honestly our babies are such a worry.

Kath

Posted by "Chris" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [1 years ago]

Good to hear Clare.

We were told to keep Archie in one room (not a cage) for the first week he was home. There was no hope in hell of doing that. He is so active he just wanted out.

We did lock the cat flap, but he spent the whole week sleeping under the chair in the bedroom.

My other cats didn't attack him, and infact they appeared to be quite wary of him (perhaps they thought they might be next for the chop!)

Can you guys let me know if you have problems with your cats and their associated "phantom" pains please? It'd be interesting to know if its a common thing... If you don't know what I mean, read the "Phantom Limbs" section on this site.

Thanks, Chris, Michelle and Archie.

Posted by "Bryony" (bryonyp at yahoo dot com) [1 years ago]

That sounds about right Kath - All Casper has wanted to do since he got over his anaesthetic is run around and explore! Stopping him from jumping distances he can't manage and getting himself into situations he can't get out of was the biggest problem!
Bryony

Posted by "Kath" (Kathmounce at handbag dot com) [2 yearss ago]

I took friday off to collect Ceef and look after him - I imagined hin sleeping in my arms all pathetic when in reality it was like looking after a toddler for a day trying to catch him before he charged into mischief!! : )

Posted by "Clare" (clare_agate at yahoo dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi All,

Thanks for the lovely messages! Sammy was starting to come round from the operation at about 2:15 this afternoon. I have just heard again from the vets who have said he is making great progress, and is very bright considering!

They are going to keep him in again tonight under observation, and the vet will assess him in the morning and decide if he can come home. I have booked tomorrow and Friday off work so all ready to look after him! Will be so good to get him home! Although slightly worried about our other cat, a female tortie...she's quite a bit smaller than him and hope she doesn't see this as her opportunity to pick on him!

Will update you tomorrow,

Clare x

Posted by "Kath" (kathmounce at handbag dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi Clare,

I really feel for you. My cat Ceefur had his front leg amputated on Thursday, however this was due to cancer and he did not have to face the trauma of an accident as most of the poor little things on here did.

If it helps at all we are now 6 days on and you would hardly believe that anything so awful has happened to him. He has been on Metacam once a day and will be for the next few days, he has also been on 'Vetergesic' twice a day for five days.
From day one he could move rapidly across the living room and by day three he could do two flights of stairs and jump on the bed.
The thing I hated most was seeing the wound for the first time but I'm used to that now.

Wiching you all the best.

Kath and Ceef.

Posted by "Bryony" (bryonyp at yahoo dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi Clare, sorry to hear about Sammy, I remember how many questions we had when we found out that Casper would have to have his leg amputated. Like Archie he was on pain killers for about 10 days afterwards, he had metacam, which is a liquid medicine so the dose is just put onto his food and he was fine with that. It is a 24 hour dose so only needed to be given every morning.

Our vet advised cage rest for at least the first week, and he is still staying in the cage at the moment for another week at night and when there is no-one home. Mostly he just sleeps, as his remaining back leg gets tired easily if he is active for a while.
I hope everything goes well with Sammy's operation. Love Bryony

Posted by "Archie Cat" (angelic dot michelle at googlemail dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi Clare
Sorry to here about Sammy, we are glad you found the website comforting. Archie was on painkillers for 10 days after the operation, we had to give them to him wrapped up in ham, but other than that he was a good as gold, we guess thats a good thing about having a greedy cat. He then had to have a further 3 weeks of pain killers when he was getting his phantom pains.
We both worked full time he was left alone for the majority of the day, though we found he slept all day as didnt like to move around too much and can only guess that he felt very vunerable at the time.

We hope the operation goes smoothly, please keep us updated on Sammys progress.

Michelle, Chris and Archie Cat.

Posted by "Clare" (clare_agate at yahoo dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi,

Found your website really really comforting! We found our cat, Sammy, crying at the front door with horrendous injuries to his left back leg last night. We can only assume he was run over.

He spent last night in the emergency vets who warned us the leg may not be saveable which was confirmed today by our own vet. He was too shocked today to have the op, but he is booked in for tomorrow morning.

My husband and I both work full time, but my parents have kindly offered to have him at their house to keep more of an eye on him during the day. Can you let me know how long we can expect him to be on medication, and how often he will need it, just trying to give my parents and idea as to whether we will need to take them up on their kind offer!!

Clare x

Posted by "Bryony" (bryonyp at yahoo dot com) [1 years ago]

I'm so glad his operation went smoothly Kath. I can sympathise with the funny moods, Casper goes from being totally soppy to having a funny 5 minutes in the cage either due to pain or anger at being in the cage, to biting anyone that refuses to let him out of either the back door or the door to the hall. Overall though he is doing brilliantly and getting around fine with the odd few misjudgments with balance or about how far he can jump up!
I hope that Ceef continues to make great progress! Love Bryony and Casper

Posted by "Kath" (kathmounce at handbag dot com) [1 years ago]

Dear Chris, Michelle and especially Archie,

Well what a long weekend! To give you a potted version - the operation went well but they wanted to keep Ceef in overnight, they did let me visit though which I found very upsetting as Ceef looked awful, the scar was gruesome and he looked shocked and confused. I cried an ocean that night.
I picked Ceef up on Friday morning and since then his physical recovery has been amazing - he can bound up the stairs and jump on the bed, he also does a Linford Christie sprint if he thinks the back door is being opened. However as you warned the whole thing is heartbreaking. He's been having times where he wants to hide on his own, I'm not sure if this is when he is sore or whether he is just fed up with being mucked around with. I am also pretty sure that the pain meds are making him nauseous.
Robert (my husband is taking him in for his check up this morning so at least they can have a good look at him).
I will keep you updated but so far I think I can see light at the end of the tunnel.

Thanks again for your support.

Kath, Robert and Ceefur.

Posted by "Chris Tate-Davies" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi Kath.

I don't want to say Good Luck because I doubt it will come down to luck, but we hope everything works out well for Ceefur and yourself.

We'll be thinking of you and Ceefur tomorrow. Please do let us know how its all gone.

Chris, Michelle and Archie Cat.

Posted by "Kath" (kathmounce at handbag dot com) [1 years ago]

So reassuring to read Archie's site and to read about Casper being even more recent. My boy Ceefur (also blue!!) is having his left forlimb amputated tomorrow due to bone cancer. reading about your experiences has made me feel much more positive. (but there will still be an ocean of tears tomorrow).

I will post soon and update you.

Posted by "Bryony" (bryonyp at yahoo dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi Chris

Thought I'd give you a little update on Casper. He's home now and doing quite well considering, although he isn't liking the cage rest too much! He has a blog now too, which can be found here: www.furrytripod.wordpress.com.

Love and chin rubs to Archie!

Bryony

Posted by "Sue H" (sue dot harris"at"dsl dot pipex dot com) [2 yearss ago]

My branch of Cats Protection has in the past successfully homed a three-legged cat who's doing well and we have a newly-three-legged amputee ready for homing soon. I shall recommend your site to potential adopters. Hope Archie continues to do well.

Posted by "Chris Tate-Davies" (christatedavies at gmail dot com) [1 years ago]

Hi Bryony,

Sorry to hear about Casper, sounds identical to Archie's accident. And I'm pleased to hear that his story has put your mind at rest somewhat. This is the reason behind Archie's website.

Believe me, if Casper is much like Archie, you will get through this and soon forget the pain you're all in right now.

I don't believe Casper will make you feel guilty, or blame you, infact I'm not sure Archie even remembered having 4 legs...

Hope everything goes well. Keep us updated, thanks,

Chris, Michelle and Archie.

Posted by "Bryony" (bryonyp at yahoo dot com) [1 years ago]

I have just read through archie's story and it had made me feel a lot better about what my family has been through in the last week.

On Sunday morning, my Mum found Casper, our gorgeous grey boy outside the back door with one back leg hanging uselessly under him. He was immediately whisked off to the emergancy vets who told us it was a simple break in 2 places and could be fixed with pins. It wasn't until Monday morning when he was transferred to our own vets, that we were told it was much worse than first thought and the leg was actually badly shattered.

Our options were a lengthy and specialized op to attempt to fix the leg, which may not work, would almost certainly would result in the leg never being the same again, and required 6 months of cage rehab, or amputation.

Amputation sounds like such a drastic measure whatever the choices but after a lot of thought we decided it would be better for him and for us. Of course there is no way to explain to a cat why he suddenly has one less leg than he remembers and I think from that point of view I will always feel guilty, but I believe that we are doing what is right for him.

I am creating a blog for him so that we can track his progess, similar to what you have done for Archie, he is a beautiful boy and I'm so pleased he has made such a good recovery.

Best Wishes

Bryony

Posted by "Linda" [2 yearss ago]

What a wonderful outcome for you and sweet Archie. He's a stunningly beautiful cat whatever number of legs he has

Posted by "Julia" [2 yearss ago]

Poor brave Archie! What a lot for him to go through, but he's so lucky to have you caring for him. Best wishes xxx

Posted by "Denise" (Kitty_564 at yahoo dot com) [2 yearss ago]

That was an amazing story, Thank you for sharing!

Posted by "Chris Tate-Davies" (admin at archiecat dot co dot uk) [1 years ago]

Hello there, and welcome to Archie's message board.

Please feel free to post messages for us.

Thanks, Chris, Michelle and of course, Archie

You last visited the board on 2010-09-05 11:52:13

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