Ava's rescue story
When Regina Cat Rescue (RCR) received a request to help a stray cat in distress in Morse, SK, we weren't sure we could help. As an entirely volunteer-run organization with limited resources - and a mandate to focus on Regina's abandoned cats - RCR isn't equipped for emergency rescues or rural ones. But as more information was received it became very clear that action was needed as the stray cat was suffering from a prolapsed uterus and was at serious risk of infection, necrosis and sepsis. On top of that, she had two 2-week-old kittens who would perish if their mom did not get help immediately. When RCR volunteers received this photo of the cat in distress (warning - graphic photo!) it was obvious that this was a life or death situation for the stray cat and her kittens.
Ava's surviving kitten, Wendell, arrives at the clinic.
Volunteers decided to nickname her Ava (which means "life") because this mom was fighting hard to stay alive.
Despite the late hour, an RCR volunteer offered to drive to Morse to pick up Ava, her kittens and take them to an emergency clinic in Regina. The animal-loving couple who contacted RCR about the young homeless family was able to drive them as far as Caronport, about half way between Regina and Morse, saving valuable time. Sadly, one kitten did not make it and passed away. It's suspected that Ava was struggling to nurse her kittens because of the severe pain she was experiencing from her extreme condition. Time was of the essence for Ava and her remaining kitten.
Ava post-surgery, recovering with her kitten in her foster home.
After a hurried hand off in a gas station parking lot, the two surviving kitties were in RCR care and back on the road to Regina. Volunteers were anxious as they hoped, wished and prayed for the wee family to hold on a little longer. Once in Regina, they were taken straight to the clinic where they were quickly assessed. Ava was taken into surgery immediately after her assessment at approximately 1 a.m. while her surviving kitten was placed on warming blankets and syringe fed. The little family was in the veterinary team's hands now!
In the early morning, RCR was updated by the vet and learnt that Ava's surgery went very well and a giant sense of relief was shared by all those involved in the rescue. Ava was moved to the home of an experienced RCR foster parent where she is currently recovering with her kitten, who has now been named Wendell. Volunteers received even more good news when they learnt that Ava had begun to nurse again. Currently, RCR is cautiously optimistic for a full recovery for both Ava and Wendell, and that they'll eventually be ready for loving forever homes.
Ava and Wendell post rescue
RCR wouldn't be able to rescue any cats without the help of generous donors and supporters. If you can help cover veterinary costs for Ava and Wendell, please consider donating by cash/cheque, PayPal or E-transfer.
Ava is not the only special case RCR has handled this year. Freya was rescued in Regina by volunteers who initially assumed she would be a typical rescue needing some TLC, a spay surgery, vaccinations and then to be made available for adoption. But then it was discovered that Freya had a ruptured uterus from an ectopic pregnancy and needed special medical attention. It goes to show you can never guess what the needs of any rescue cat will be, and that these unexpected issues often result in additional expenses.
Luxe's is another recent and special case that has required considerable medical attention. She was found to have mammary gland hyperplasia - the first case of this condition that RCR volunteers have seen. Luxe is still recovering from her surgery and her prognosis is not certain. But with continued medical care and lots of TLC from her foster home she is on the right road for recovery.
Help these - and all cats in RCR's care - by donating today.
-Rachel