In the bustling streets of Brooklyn, animal rescuer David was preparing for a new Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) project when he encountered a sight that stopped him in his tracks. Sitting forlornly on the sidewalk was a cat in desperate need of help. Covered in dirt, fleas, cuts, and scratches, the cat’s condition was dire. David knew immediately that this cat needed help.
Without hesitation, David ran home to grab a carrier and some wet food. The cat, sensing a chance for salvation, willingly walked into the carrier. They named him Teddy, as his worn and ragged appearance reminded them of a neglected old teddy bear discarded and forgotten on the streets.
The Immediate Care
Bathing an adult cat can be a daunting task, but Teddy’s condition left David with no other choice. Using regular Dawn dish soap, David gave Teddy a thorough bath to clean him and start eliminating the fleas. Additionally, Teddy received a topical flea medication to further address the infestation.
Despite his rough appearance, it was clear that Teddy had once been a house cat. Unfixed male cats like Teddy often have a strong urge to roam, sometimes wandering miles away from home, getting lost, eating harmful substances, or getting into fights over territory. Teddy’s condition suggested he had been on the streets for a while, surviving against the odds.
The Long Road to Recovery
Teddy’s health issues extended beyond his outward appearance. Blood work revealed compromised kidney function and anemia, and a urinalysis indicated a urinary tract infection. Though he wasn’t gaining weight initially, Teddy’s stable appetite was a hopeful sign.
Over the next few weeks, Teddy began grooming himself, a positive indication of his improving health. Despite showing relative stability, further tests confirmed ongoing kidney issues. An ultrasound and x-ray revealed mineral buildup in his left kidney and a narrowing in the right kidney, explaining his high blood pressure and kidney values.
Moving to a Foster Home
While deciding on the next steps for Teddy’s treatment, he moved into a foster home. His new foster parents were trained to administer subcutaneous fluids and his medications. Teddy received tons of attention daily, gradually becoming more comfortable and affectionate.
After consulting with a surgical team at the Animal Medical Center (AMC), it was determined that Teddy needed a subcutaneous ureteral bypass (SUB) device to bypass his obstructed ureter, allowing normal urine flow from his kidney to his bladder. The surgery was crucial to prevent permanent kidney damage but was very expensive, even with a nonprofit discount.
A Community Rallies
Thankfully, Teddy’s story had garnered a following from animal lovers worldwide. People donated generously, making the life-saving surgery possible. Teddy underwent the procedure successfully, and his vet team provided photos of the installed device. Despite eating most of his meals through a tube and taking numerous medications, Teddy remained in good spirits, showing the resilience and will to live.
Teddy’s Transformation
Teddy’s recovery journey was remarkable. Watching him run and jump for the first time, finally feeling like a normal cat, was a moment of pure joy. After seven months and 227 days since his initial rescue, Teddy was ready for adoption. While parting with a foster cat is always bittersweet, knowing Teddy would be the center of attention in his new home made it worthwhile.
Teddy was adopted by a loving family, complete with his own VIP water fountain and a big brother named Willy. The two quickly became inseparable, embarking on their daily adventures and bringing endless joy to their new family.
The Broader Impact
Teddy’s story is a testament to the power of community and the profound impact of collective compassion. With over 500,000 cats on the streets of New York City, the work of rescuers and volunteers is never done. Teddy’s rescue was funded by cat lovers around the world, many of whom donated, volunteered, and opened their homes and hearts to help.
Aww…lovely story. 🥰Glad Teddy found a happy home. 🥰❤❤