​Fur Kids Foundation Success Story: Kitty 2018

This is Kitty, a 4-year-old domestic short hair (DSH) cat.

Kitty’s mom is going through a divorce after being married for 44 years—she’s on a very limited income and is struggling financially. So was when Kitty started to act uncomfortable—was unable to sit or walk without being in pain—she was very concerned she wouldn’t be able to help her furry friend.

Kitty’s mom took him to the vet, where they learned that his urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body) was completely obstructed by crystals and his bladder was full of crystals and stones—meaning he needed surgery, immediately. It was then that she applied with Fur Kids Foundation.

According to Drs. Foster and Smith, some cats develop microscopic crystals in their urine (think fine sand), which may (or may not) be associated with a urinary tract infection. These crystals can irritate the bladder, and can plug the urethra, like it did in Kitty’s case. This is a life threatening condition, as kitty wasn’t able to urinate properly. And, in some cats, these crystals can develop into larger stones, which can also be found in the kidneys, bladder, urethra and others. As you can imagine, these stones can also make it very hard for a cat to go potty. 

Common signs or symptoms your cat may display if this is an issue for them include:
• Blood in the urine 
• Chronic urinary tract infections
• Frequent urination
• Genital licking
• Going to the bathroom outside the litter box, or in unusual places 
• Painful urination or straining to urinate. 
• Urine spraying

If your cat is straining to urinate and produces little urine or no urine at all, it is considered an extreme emergency and you need to take your pet to the vet immediately. 

Fur Kids Foundation was able to help Kitty’s mom afford the surgery needed to make him feel better. We’ve been told that he’s happy at home making a huge recovery. 

Fur Kids Foundation is grateful for the dedication of our volunteers and supporters who have helped local families stay happy and healthy, and together! If you would like to help Fur Kids Foundation continue to help families in Campbell County, Wyoming with animals, please consider making a tax-deductible donation. The money helps families during a time when they may not be able to afford adequate veterinary care. Check out more Success Stories.