This is a sad story with a very happy ending!
For many years we have been caring for feral and stray cats in our neighborhood. We trap, neuter/spay, and vaccinate all our kitties then provide them with ongoing care - a regular food supply, shelter, and medical monitoring.
On the afternoon of March 23, 2009, we found one of our feral cats, bleeding and seriously injured. He looked so bad -we didn't even think he'd survive.
Being feral, "Stripy" was nervous around people. It took us 3 days before we were able to trap him and get him to a veterinarian. When we did, we were horrified to learn that someone had shot Stripy with a rifle! X-rays showed the bullet destroyed part of his tongue, leaving him unable to eat or drink. The vet placed a feeding tube into Stripy's stomach to keep him alive until his injuries healed and he was able to begin eating and drinking again.
Stripy was in hospital for 9 days. The cost of his medical care was over $1000. We had reported this incident to the police and the local press took up the story. We were amazed and touched, when people came forward with offers of help for Stripy! Thanks to generous donations, his medical bills were all paid for, and a number of families asked about adopting him!
Stripy recovered from his injuries and is doing very well. Four weeks after he was shot, we were able to place him with his forever family! He has adjusted wonderfully to life as an indoor kitty and we are so pleased to see him happy and healthy, in a safe and loving home!
Stripy has a website where you can follow his progress and even watch a video documenting his story!
New Port Richey, FL
