Success Story: Tonto

Fur Kids Foundation case managers have seen and helped a number of these stories: mischievous kitten with a broken leg. While many see cats as agile animals who pounce from place to place with grace, we’re beginning to learn that kittens seem to be similar to bulls in china stores -- clumsy and fragile.

That is the case with Tonto. Tonto had a broken leg, but his misfortune didn’t end there. The break in his leg wasn’t healing properly, which caused a particularly nasty infection. Tonto’s only option was to have his leg amputated.

Bones most commonly broken (or fractured) in cats include the femur (leg bone), pelvis, jaw and tail. Cats are masters at hiding their pain, but if your cat has broken a bone, they will most likely:

1. cry out or howl in pain or moan/groan when touched in the area that is broken
2. refrain from walking or moving the part that is broken
3. won’t eat or groom the area that is broken
4. have swelling in the area of the broken bone

Tonto’s parents had hit a temporary rough patch. His dad had lost his job in November, and had just began a new job a couple of weeks before Tonto broke his leg. And his mom was on bed rest due to pregnancy. They reached out to Fur Kids Foundation for help, and we were able to provide assistance with Tonto’s bill.  

We’re very happy to say that the vet removed Tonto’s leg, and he has made a full recovery. We hope he’ll be one of those graceful and agile cats in the near future.

If you would like to help Fur Kids Foundation continue to help families 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.