Tilly was wandering stray and starving when she showed up at a kind woman’s house. Realizing that Tilly needed veterinary care, the woman contacted Regina Cat Rescue (RCR) for help. Once at a RCR partner vet clinic, it became clear that Tilly was a very sick cat. Given Tilly’s strength and will to survive, RCR and the veterinary team decided to do what we could to give her the best chance for survival.
At the clinic, it was soon discovered that Tilly was suffering from an overwhelming infection, anemia, extremely low blood sugar and hypothermia. X-rays revealed that Tilly’s jaw was broken.
The anemia and hypothermia were the most immediate concerns, so Tilly was placed on heating pads while a warmed IV solution was administered to warm her from the inside out. A plasma transfusion was prescribed as the best course of action for the severe anemia. Regina doesn’t have a blood/plasma bank for cats, and since it was the weekend it would take too long to receive it from Saskatoon, so the best option available was to find a blood donor in Regina.
Work began to find a donor cat who had the same blood type as Tilly. Thankfully, a RCR foster mom was able to volunteer her own cat, who was rescued by RCR four years ago. A quick blood test was done, and it confirmed that the two cats have the same blood type so the transfusion could proceed. The transfusion began and Tilly lay surrounded by people who cared about her and were fighting for her.
Since Tilly’s transfusion she has a little more energy each day and her blood work continues to improve. Though she still has a long recovery ahead of her, Tilly has gained enough strength to be sedated and have her jaw wired to repair the break. She has been discharged from the clinic and is doing well in foster care. To see more photos of Tilly and the blood transfusion process, please click here. (Note - some readers may find these images graphic.)
Throughout it all, Tilly has been very calm and affectionate to those caring for her. Even at her weakest Tilly would try to stand and approach to kennel door for some love and attention. The better she feels, the more pets and cuddles she wants. We’re so relieved and thrilled that this sweet girl is now fully on the mend.
Donations for Tilly’s medical care including the surgery to repair her jaw are appreciated. If you’d like to donate, you can do so by cheque or cash, Paypal or e-transfer. Thanks for your support!
