Looking for advice after one of my cats was in an accident.

I've got two cats, they are 1 year 9 months old.

Xander was hit by a car, Thursday evening, and I still don't know if he will need to have his leg amputated. They managed to stitch the wound but the vet is worried about the blood supply to his foot. I'm taking him back to the vet later today.

He is such a good boy and I hope he recovers.

His sister, Lexa, has refused to go in the same room as him since I brought him home yesterday. She seems really scared and I don't know how long it is going to take for her to adjust to the situation.

Has anybody out there been through something similar? If so any advice? I will be talking to the vet but any personal experiences will be helpful.

More about how to get her to relax and not be so freaked out by what has happened.

Xander seems very quiet, he has moved though he hasn't eaten anything yet. But I expect it will take him some time to recover from the trauma.

So sorry to hear about Xander, I hope he makes a good recovery. Lexa may be upset because he smells different, and like the vet's office or medicine.

I've never used it, but something like Feliway may help if she doesn't get over it soon.

Thank you. The vet said something similar about her and to just give her some time.

We still don't know whether he will keep his leg; the vet did her best but is still not sure about the blood supply to his lower leg and foot. I'll know more next time I take him in for a bandage change. He is only young so hopefully he will recover.

It's not unusual for the other cat to be a little freaked out by the situation; he smells like vet, and she knows something is going on with him, so she's going to hang back a bit and see if there is any danger. She will get over it when she is ready, and not before.

I've heard that Feliway helps in some situations, but I didn't notice any effect when I tried it to help integrate new furry roommates.

I had a diabetic cat that went to the vet fairly frequently for checkups, and his siblings always acted like they had to start over getting to know him, EVERY TIME. The rest of the time they were affectionate to each other. Poor guy, leaves the house for a couple hours and all of a sudden hes not welcome in his own home, getting sniffed and hissed at.

Poor Xander, that is awful for him. When is his next exam?

He's going back again on Monday morning (UK time). It sounds like he will have to go in regularly to get the bandage changed and to check how he is healing.

Lexa has always been a nervous cat. She is a lot calmer with me today but still won't go in the same room as Xander and I've got him in the room where I put the food and water.

Unfortunately I haven't got the space to isolate him somewhere else and have decided not to move the food bowls. I tried that yesterday and she still wouldn't eat. I don't think she likes change.

My best wishes for Xander I did use Feliway quite a few years ago when MAX first entered my life and interacted with my Late Lizzy. It sort of worked BUT

was very expensive (say $80+ per month) and not really a solution.

You didn't mention what their age difference was, how they got on before the accident, have you tried to re-introduce them again as though
they were NEW cats?

Hmm. A few of my observations were stupid. Please ignore.

They are siblings and got on well most of the time.

At the moment I have them both in cat cages in the same room but not able to see each other. I'm giving that half an hour or so and then, as long as they both stay calm, I will let them see each other; still caged. After that we will see - probably let Lexa out and see if she remains quiet or runs and hides again.

Sorry to hear about Xander and hopefully they'll save his leg and he'll make a full recovery.

Agree completely about the smelly bit - as soon as Xander gets the house-smell back in his fur, Lexa should be fine. Also about the questionable effectiveness of Feliway. Although, as Xander will no doubt have to make repeated visits to the vet there may be upset for some time.

But I'm sure all will be well in the end - cats are both flexible and strong and can cope with a lot. At least your boy is still alive.

>8 lriley: Thank you. I hope so as well.

P.S. I wouldn't cage either of them, but keep things as normal as possible. If Lexa wants to go away and hide and be fed separately for a bit just let her. She'll come round eventually.

>9 Zambaco: I don't think I'll need the Feliway. They were both pretty calm while in the cages and after I let Lexa out she was nervous but didn't bolt. I didn't get Xander out but left his cage door open and she went over and had a little sniff and she then managed to eat a bit of food before retreating to her usual perch (in a different room).

Progress, then!

>11 Zambaco: I probably won't cage again. I now know that she can be in the same room and eat so I will let her take things at her own pace.

>13 Zambaco: yes :)

Xander still hasn't eaten but he drank quite a bit of water.

Bless him - I wish him a good recovery and a long, happy life.

Thank you.

Poor Xander and poor you. So stressful all around. As others have said, he's young and cats are resilient, and even if his leg does need to be amputated, he'll cope well.

I have a friend who found an injured Siamese cat in an alley and took it to the vet. One rear leg had to be amputated, and because he'd paid so much for the repairs and become emotionally invested in its recovery, my friend kept the cat. It lived a long and happy life. It had tons of personality, that one, and (being Siamese) was very chatty. It even "talked" in its sleep.

Stressful indeed.

Good for your friend. I've known people with three legged pets and they do surprisingly well.

I am pleased that the vet thought it was worth trying to save his leg - nothing was broken but the gash was down to the tendons and bone. I saw it before the op and again today when they changed the dressing and it looks like they made a neat job; there is still a doubt on whether the blood supply is getting through or not. Having that dressing doesn't make it easy for him to try to use the leg but I really do hope that he doen't have to go through another operation.

This is the first time I have had a badly injured cat and I am thankful for this group and the support you have all given me and Xander during this time.

>1 calm: So sorry to hear about Xander's accident. Hope all three of you will be back to normal soon. Hugs to you and chin scratches to the kitties.

>18 tardis: I had always heard that Siamese were talkative but didn't know they could be sleep-talkers. I did have a dog that would woof or growl occasionally in her sleep. She would also sometimes wag her tail quite hard while dreaming.

>1 calm: My thoughts are with you and your kitties, especially Xander. How scary and stressful for you. Please keep us updated on his progress and also the resocialization between the two.

Oh, the poor darlings! I hope they can save Xander's leg, but there are plenty of cats and dogs happily living with three. I expect Lexa will come around in her own time.

Don't worry about Xander not eating right now. That's pretty normal considering what he's been through.

My dear Gracie just passed away after 16 years as a 3-legged cat. She was fine like that. She ran up and down stairs, hopped on the bed etc. Best wishes to Xander for a full recovery!

>20 Taphophile13: chin scratches delivered and they both loved it :)

>21 framboise: Thank you.

I will keep you updated on how he does. I saw his leg twitch earlier I don't know if that is positive or not. Lexa is no longer freaking out, though she is still very cautious when she sees Xander.

>22 lilithcat: Thank you.

I hope to get him to eat something today as one of the medications he is supposed to take can only been given after he eats something. That is for pain relief and is an anti-inflammatory, though he doesn't seem to be in pain. He likes the antibiotic chew tablet.

>23 krazy4katz: Whatever happens I'm sure that he will live life to the full, he is a very friendly, loving boy. Your Gracie sounds like she was adorable.

Aww, poor Xander. Hope he heals quickly.

I agree with >9 Zambaco: Agree completely about the smelly bit - as soon as Xander gets the house-smell back in his fur, Lexa should be fine. One of my boys will hiss at anyone who's come back from the vet because they smell funny, even us humans! Once the vet smell disappears, he's fine. Lexa is probably similar.

Edit: A few years back one of my boys ate a penny and had to have it surgically removed. It took my scent-sensitive guy two weeks to accept him back fully so don't be surprised if your Lexa is freaked out for a while.

>25 Narilka: Thank you. It is good to hear from people who have had similar problems with their cats.

It must have been worrying when your boy ate a penny.

I'm happy to say Lexa seems to be doing better, she came within a couple of feet of Xander so I gave them both cat treats and strokes.

I also managed to get Xander to eat a little bit of tuna and some more cat treats so gave him his medication.

>12 calm: Good to hear! I don't have any advice to add, just reading along.

Best wishes for Xander. Even if he has to lose his leg, cats are pretty resilient and he'll be perfectly fine on three legs!

>27 LibraryCin: I am pleased that they both seem pretty relaxed now.

Today's update

I took Xander to the vet - he is does seem to have blood supply to his paw but now they are worried about possible nerve damage as he didn't react when the vet squeezed his paw. So still no definite answer on whether it will need to be amputated.

He seems to be his usual laid back self. He was alert and looking around the waiting area to see what was going on but not stressed by being there. He did try to wriggle away while the vet cleaned and dressed the wound. I have to take him back again on Wednesday.

After we got home Lexa actually jumped on top of the cat carrier and gave it a good sniff and last night they both stayed in the same room.

He is still not eating very much but drinking plenty of water and he likes his cat treats. He has been grooming himself and he looks healthy. He has moved a short distance but not while I was watching so I don't know whether he is just using his front paws to wriggle. His attempt to use the litter tray didn't go very well, he ended up with litter in his tail and a wet patch on the floor.

Sounds positive - nerve damage can take a while to repair but feeling can come back after a few weeks or even months. One of my cats once 'killed' her tail and we were contemplating amputation, but it did come back to life eventually. Fingers crossed for a similar outcome for Xander!

>29 Zambaco: - That is interesting. The vet said that if he didn't have feeling soon he would need the amputation as otherwise he would just be dragging his leg for the rest of his life. But it has only been 4 days since the accident and as long as he isn't in any discomfort I don't see why he has to go through another operation.

I guess it is just a question of how long they will wait before saying that amputation is the only option. If it comes to that I might need to ask for a second opinion.

I hope that he does react next time - I have seen that leg twitching and there was damage to his paw, he lost one pad, as well as the gash down to the bone and tendon in his lower leg. That is a lot of healing to do and he needs time to recover as far as he can.

>30 calm: Best wishes for continued recovery for Xander. Seems like he is comfortable (& Lexa too!). What a trauma for the little guy; good thing he's in good hands!

Thanks for the updates, hope Xander continues to improve!

>31 framboise: and >32 NorthernStar: Thank you

Neither of them are eating very much - but it is very hot here and another cat owner in the area has said that their cats are eating less than usual as well. So I'm not sure if the loss of appetite is because of the stress or the weather.

Xander will eat if I manage to get something in his mouth; take treats and, sometimes, little bits of tuna from my hand. He will start drinking if I hold the water bowl at the right angle and continue when I put it down. I did try some cat milk but neither of them liked it.

He was not very happy when he needed a pee and had to do it lying down. I've put a puppy training pad near where he sleeps as he does get off his bedding before he goes.

His eyes are still clear and he does groom himself. He still isn't trying to move that much though.

They are both fast asleep right now.

I'll update tomorrow after the visit to the vet.

>33 calm: it's an excellent sign that he does need to pee - his kidneys are doing their job.

sometimes I give sick cats chicken or turkey baby food. (Some of them can't get enough of it, and others make that open-mouth-sniffing face and ignore it.) it's worth a try, though. Kitten formula is good too. Both have a lot of protein, which helps with cats who aren't eating enough; they at least get more nutrition out of the amount they do take in.

>34 Darth-Heather: I think he held it as long as he could before going so it was uncomfortable for him when he finally let go.

Thanks for the suggestions. I'll try the baby and kitten food.

As I said if I manage to get some food in his mouth he will eat it and not spit it out but it is beginning to feel like I am force feeding him. Unfortunately he has to have eat to take one of the medications and just giving him cat treats and small quantities of canned fish doesn't seem enough.

I will be seeing the vet in a couple of hours and see what she suggests.

Edit - he ate some breakfast! Well he licked the sauce/juices off his chicken and I managed to get him to eat a few small bits of the chicken as well.

Home from the vet and good news - he reacted when they cleaned and dressed the wound so he has feeling in his leg. His dressing had slipped and it took them quite some time to soak it away from the wound; he is normally a very patient laid back boy but he was definitely unhappy towards the end of the process and tried to pull his leg away.

The vet seemed very pleased with his progress and said not to worry about him only taking the liquid part of his food.

>36 calm: So he does have sensation in his leg and is trying to use it, at least to move it away from the vet. What good news! Sounds as if he needs the cat equivalent of chicken soup while he recovers.

>37 Taphophile13: I suspect he might like actual chicken soup, even.

>37 Taphophile13: Chicken Soup is the only Chicken Soup equivalent for a CAT. Just go very light on the salt and and almost no/none onions.
I enjoy making it, and my cats do - occasionally - love eating it!

>37 Taphophile13: Yes he still isn't trying to put weight on it, as far as I know, but any movement is good.

That's more or less what I gave him for breakfast - cat soup which is a broth with small pieces of chicken in it. Though after looking at the picture on the packet I was expecting it to be more liquid than it was, there is a lot more chicken than broth.

>38 anglemark: he's never been one for human food

>39 guido47: Maybe I'll try to get to a shop tomorrow and buy some chicken and boil it to death and give him the resulting liquid :)

>41 calm: Under no way do you buy some chicken and boil it to death

Shudder.

Slow - to extract it's flavour - and with love. We love our Carnivore (Cats) and thus we should respect it's prey.

Guido.

I was joking. If I can get any chicken I promise to treat it with care.

He does seem reasonably happy with the liquid or sauce from cat food but I don't see any harm in adding some home made chicken broth to his food.

I've been away from this thread for a couple of days, but I'm delighted to hear that Xander is doing well and reacting to touch on his leg. One thing you might try tempting him with is beaten-up raw egg - I've brought a couple of cats back from the brink with the stuff. If he doesn't seem interested in lapping it you can try dipping your fingers in and seeing if he'll lick it off them. If you can get him to take it it's great stuff for an invalid - very nutritious.

I hope things continue to improve - it sounds like he definitely has the will to go on, and that's the main thing. Keeping my fingers crossed for you.

>43 calm: Congratulations! I am glad that Xander's leg is improving. Talk about having 9 lives...

Great news that his leg has circulation and nervous system working. Cats can be quite resilient!

>44 Zambaco: he seems to be doing well. He ate some solid food out of his bowl last night, so that is another positive. It wasn't much but at least he has started eating voluntarily. As he did that I'm not going to keep trying him on new things. I'm now thinking that when he is hungry he will eat, as long as he doesn't have to move to get to the food:)

>45 krazy4katz: Thank you. I am happy that he is improving. The emergency vet said that he had used up one of his lives. He was definitely lucky not to break anything - though they didn't take any X-rays, just a physical exam. So many cats get internal injuries or major trauma after an encounter with a car so he got away lightly.

>46 anna_in_pdx: Thank you, it is great news. He's young and healthy so he does have a good chance to recover.

>46 anna_in_pdx: >47 calm: Many years ago (8?) when MAX (who adopted me after 3 or so months, of checking me out, and then finally decided to let me pay for his VET Bills) wandered into my life,
with a "Bandelier Wound". I checked that injury on the NET. There were some rather new approaches - BUT VERY, VERY expensive. I did like one of the observations of one of the
Vets... One said his Professor said "...Cats are very resilient, you can throw the pieces of a cat into a room and a week days later a CAT will walk out :-}

Best for Xander.

ETA. I made some Beef Tea for a sick friend recently. Very 19th Century. Does taste good. I wonder if Puss would like it?
Just Google for the recipe.

>48 guido47: what is a "Bandelier Wound"? I tried googling but just get results for a US National Monument.

Max was very lucky to find you. Cats are resilient and I am pleased that they choose to be our companions.

Xander moved further today but it was just a drag with his front paws. He got from the quiet place into the hallway. After all that effort I have him lying near me but I don't want to leave him on any surface where he will need to jump to get down so I am going to have to take him back to his bed soon.

Xander update

When I put him in the carrier he lifted his back leg into the cage. Fortunately he is very calm in the car, he just looks around a bit and doesn't make a sound.

He saw a different vet today and wasn't very happy while his dressing was changed. On the last visit the nurse took a lot of time to soak things away but this one took it off very quickly. He definitely has feeling in his leg and part of his paw but he didn't react when the vet squeezed the middle pad. There was some necrotic tissue around the wound but when the vet cleaned it there was fresh blood so it seems like it should heal.

After the wound was dressed he got himself back into the cat carrier. It was a very ungainly scramble but it did involve using all four legs. He relaxed as soon as he was back in the carrier.

So the prognosis is mostly positive. I don't know how much use he will regain or how bad the scarring will be but I don't think it will need amputating.

What great news! You must feel very relieved. How's he eating now? And how's Lexa acting around him?

>51 framboise: Thank you I am relieved.

He didn't want any breakfast this morning and he hasn't got out of his cage since we got back from the vet so he hasn't eaten yet. Given that he is moving more I hope that when he does decide to get out he will eat.

Lexa is a lot more relaxed generally, she still hasn't touched Xander but is happy to be near him. Before the accident she had separation anxiety when I left the house and needed lots of cuddles and reassurrance when I got home. Now she just comes over, gives the cage a sniff and then settles down.

>49 calm: Imagine a Cat with a collar who gets their Arm/Paw stuck through the Bandelier like collar. Well it occurs at the shoulder joints. And the shoulder is rubbed away.
Max Walked in with that injury. The next day I took him to my (expensive!) Vet. Who immediately said NOT ONE OF THOSE
having recently treated one. He gave me a 30% chance of the stiches he was prepared ($500) to
do holding - They didn't. But Max, 9 years later still jumps to the to of a fence, even though his arm pit is still RAW & Wet after all these years.

CATS are Tough!

So I expect/hope your very young "PUSSY CAT" to do well :-)

Guido.

>53 guido47: ouch poor Max. Is it really 9 years, I remember you telling us about him at the time. I'm sorry to hear that it is still RAW & wet. It is good that he is an active cat.

I did have a stray turn up once with a deep wound to his neck - probably as a result of an embedded collar. I managed to shut him in the house and I called the RSPCA the same day but they said it was too bad to treat and put him to sleep. I would have tried to give him a home if he had recovered and hadn't gone too feral.

I agree that cats are tough and, given his progress so far, I expect Xander to do well.

Well, Calm, I also do well remember your Circe I loved her well before I was aware of Calicoe Cats! Of which beauty I do now own/look-after,
BUFFY.

Sounds like Xander still has plenty of fight left in him! I'd say things are looking positive.

>55 guido47: I don't think I said in this group but Circe passed in her sleep just over 2 years ago (June 2016), she was 15. Her companion, 16 year old Muzzy, had been caught and shaken by a dog one evening in May 2016, she didn't seem to have any injuries but was unconscious the following morning and died in the car on the way to the vet. They both lived to a good age, Muzzy was slowing down some but Circe seemed healthy right to the end.

Xander and Lexa are very different in character and looks so they weren't replacements but I love the pair of them. They were born in September 2016 and came to live with me in November that year. I'm not one for taking many photos but I did take some when they were kittens



Lexa is on the left and Xander is on the right.

How do Max and Buffy get on? I just looked at your picture gallery and she looks like a character :)

>56 Zambaco: He does have plenty of fight. I don't think he liked the new vet very much though. That or he has got a lot more feeling in that leg now. There is still a lot of damage that needs to heal, but I'm more hopeful now

>50 calm: Sounds like good news!

Cats are quite amazing. (1) They won't walk when you think they should; (2) They won't eat when you think they should; (3) If the vet is new or old, they will shun or not shun him/her based on random impulse; (4) Begging is the worst way to get a cat to do anything.

>58 krazy4katz: Too true :)

We've got the weekend off from visiting the vet, next visit is Monday morning, so I'm trying for a relaxing couple of days for all of us. Maybe I might read something :)

I left the cat carrier open on the floor yesterday and he has taken himself back into it and is fast asleep. I'm waiting for him to wake up before giving him some breakfast and his pill. It might be best to let him take things at his own pace.

Lexa has already had breakfast and is curled up on my bed.

Edit he woke up so I got him out of the cage and gave him his medication, some food and water. I shut the door but, shortly after I left the room, he managed to open it and get back in. I guess that is his comfortable place at the moment so I will leave him there.

I am sorry that your cat was injured.

I hate to recommend this, because I hate to encourage the slaughter, but if you ever need to tempt a cat to eat, try buying some fresh/frozen kangaroo meat and chop very finely.

I know it will probably be hard to track down and probably expensive, but having rescued over 100 cats and dealt with fussy cats and injured and sick cats, and being told cats will only eat one thing, I can say that it would be about in in 200 cats that DOESN'T gobble it down.

When you are desperate to get them eating, it is worth a try. You will probably have to look for butchers that offer game and exotic meat and it will be shockingly expensive in Europe or America - but when desperate, it is a possible temptation...

It sounds like Xander is well on his way to recovery :) Thanks for keeping us updated.

>60 roomsofbooks: Thank you. Fortunately he is eating again, with a bit of encouragement and hand feeding. He ate all the poached chicken and cooking liquor I gave him for breakfast; he also had some cat treats and a little bit of cat food and drank a reasonable quantity of water this morning.

>61 Narilka: It does sound that way. I hope that he continues to heal quickly.

He has looked healthy all the time, no haws in his eyes and his coat is still looking good - though he does need grooming (he is a semi-longhair and needs combing regularly). I have only given him a very gentle brush since the accident as I didn't want to manhandle him too much. He has been grooming himself.

Once I posted about the accident I knew that the people in this group would be supportive and I am happy to keep you all updated on his progress.

Thanks to everyone who has read, commented or just lurked on this thread.

Have you bought some marrow bone and offered the marrow as is or warmed?

It might help with bone formation and future strength.

I know he is eating but probably could do with red meat and iron to boost the blood - and it is a tip for any future need to tempt eating for you and any other reader.

Hoping recovery is fast and strong.

Several years ago my Callie suddenly stopped eating—I have no idea why. My vet prescribed very small antihistamine tablets which they had already cut in fourths. Just a few dollars for at least two dozen doses. It's an appetite stimulant and works like a charm. Only hours after the first tiny piece she was eating normally. I'm sure your vet has this available too although it sounds as if Xander is progressing nicely.

I have to wonder if he is sleeping in his carrier because he understands that the vets are helping him. Even though he doesn't like them he knows(?) that getting in the carrier gets him the help he needs. Probably overthinking that. My cats hated their carriers, except for the one longish-haired fellow who would curl up inside his as soon as I brought it out.

>63 roomsofbooks: He is eating some cat food (including ones with red meat and liver) which contains the correct nutritional balance. The other things are given in very small portions to try to tempt him to eat slightly more.

I hope his recovery is fast and strong as well.

>64 Taphophile13: Cats are funny things, even when things are normal they won't eat something they have enjoyed many times in the past. If the vet gets worried about how much he is eating I'm sure that they will prescibe something to help.

He was one for getting on top of things to sleep (bookshelves, wardrobe, kitchen cupboards) so he needs somewhere else. After he came home I made him a nest on the floor with pillows and towels, once he started moving he used the cat bed which was close to that nest. Now I wonder if he just feels safer in the carrier as he is surrounded on three sides and is covered.

>65 calm: a lot of cats will inherently seek a "cave" for protection when ill or injured. The carrier seems to fit that need for him; I'm sure you will see him using it less as he regains strength and feels less vulnerable. It's good that you have provided a variety of comforts for him to choose from.

>66 Darth-Heather: Thanks for that, it makes sense. I'm trying not too disturb him too much and am letting him sleep most of the time.

He woke up shortly after I last posted so I took him out for a stroke and cuddle. He then ate some food from his bowl when I put it under his nose :) Of course as soon as I left the room he went back!

Not so good today. The wound isn't healing and there was more necrotic tissue. He is going to need daily wound dressings and it still possible that he might need another operation - either to amputate or, not so likely, a skin graft. That would involve stitching his leg into his side.

He has also lost half a kilo since the accident.

Given how things are going I think I am going to have to board him at the vet while they treat him.

Hmm >68 calm:

When my Dad died in 2003, I wasn't notified for about 4 weeks. When I visited his house with a COP, the only thing I was interested in was - what happened to Lizzy? -
He (the Sergeant) mentioned they had found Lizzy and taken her to the RSPCA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) The next day I visited the center.

Her fur had been shaved for a drip, and...they said to me "...thank God you came at last...she has been pining, almost close to death.

I took her to Dad's home (now mine) and within half a day she was back to normal. OK she was already middle aged BUT some Cats really need their known surrounds.

I guess if it's only for a few days it should be OK.

Your'se, with best hopes,

Guido.

>68 calm: poor Xander. Thanks for keeping us posted about his progress.

>69 guido47: That is terrible, poor Lizzie and you. I am so pleased that she recovered quickly once she was back in familiar surroundings.

I want Xander to be in the best place to allow him to recover, so I think it will be worth leaving him to the professionals for a few days. If he doesn't settle there I will bring him home as soon as possible.

He is comfortable visiting the vets, not at all distressed by being there - even when the waiting room is full of dogs (or children). As a boarder he will be in a quiet area with expert care available at all times. So I think it might be better while he needs daily attention for him to stay there.

He is already going away from home for around two hours a day for each vet visit (aat least half an hour travel time in each direction depending on traffic; I always get there early (because of allowing extra time for traffic and road works) and need to wait; then there is the time they take to clean and dress the wound and then the journey home. He has been very mellow about the experience so far but his sister is left home alone. I think we will all get more stressed out without the day to recover between each trip.

>70 NorthernStar: Thank you, he still seems pretty relaxed about everything and looks healthy. So, hopefully, if he gets all the care he needs things will start healing.

I think it was more distressing for me to hear that things weren't going as well as I hoped. I didn't think the wound smelt as bad today as it did on Friday though it is obviously not healing.

>71 calm: it isn't unusual to have a setback or two during the course of healing something this serious. Poor lil guy... :(

I think it makes sense to turn him over the to pros for a bit while he needs the daily dressings, and also they can evaluate him hourly instead of daily. He might not love being there so much, but the frequent car trips are tiring too so it's kind of a wash as far as how much strain it puts on him.

I usually send mine with their favorite foods and beds so they have some of the comforts from home, but not all vets allow a lot of outside stuff to be brought in.

Hang in there Xander, you can do it!

>72 Darth-Heather: - I have now booked him in as a boarder and will take him tomorrow morning. I hope he does better with the pros. As much as I love him and will miss having him around it is going to give him the best chance of recovery.

When the vet operated she tried to keep as much of his skin as possible but that hasn't worked out too well. More frequent cleaning of the wound to take that nasty dead stuff away rather than leaving it bandaged sounds like a good thing to me.

When I phoned them they didn't mention anything about bringing stuff from home and I didn't think to ask. He is still not eating much of his food and never had a favourite variety. I have always used different brands and flavours for each meal so the cats never know what will be next, they do turn their noses up at supermarket own brands but will eat almost everything else. He does seem to prefer the wet food in gravy at the moment and won't touch his kibble so I'll let the care team know that. I'll take a pack of his favourite cat treats and see if they will give him some of those.

Whatever happens to his leg Xander is a young and healthy cat so will have many years ahead of him ... on four legs or three!

I would take something that smells of home, like a favourite blanket. Also visit as often as you can. When my old cat Cleo was hospitalised with hepatitis I used to visit her every day and groom her. She seemed to appreciate that and did pull through (though I'm sure the veterinary care helped too!).

I hope all goes well for Xander and that he does manged to hang onto his leg - though there are worse things than amputation and, from what I've heard, cats manage very well on three legs.

>74 Zambaco: Thank you for sharing about Cleo.

He doesn't have a favourite blanket, when he wasn't outside (and he spent a lot of time out unlike his sister) his favourite places to sleep before the accident were on one of the bookcases - a lowish three shelf one; or on top of a kitchen cupboard or my wardrobe. I never made them more comfortable by adding a blanket to the surface as I never knew which one he would use:) Though he did sometimes sleep on a pillow that I left on the floor for him, I think that might be too big to take to the vets.

Unfortunately I won't be able to visit daily as I don't drive myself and a neighbour has been kindly providing the transport so far. Fortunately they are self-employed so have been able to take the time to help Xander. They have always said they will do anything to help the cats but I don't want to take advantage.

I'm trying to stay positive for him and hope all goes well too. The nurse today was telling me about her three-legged cat who still hunts and climbs trees, so if amputation is the outcome I hope that Xander will adapt as well as her cat did.

You might consider taking a piece of your clothing along to the vet. That way Xander will have a familiar scent to curl up with and it's smaller than the pillow.

I'm sorry to hear he isn't healing as well as had been hoped, sounds like you are doing the right thing having him stay at the vet to get more frequent medical attention than you can provide at home. Hope he heals well and comes home soon!

>76 Taphophile13: I was also going to suggest a t-shirt or something (something that you've worn, but not yet washed, so it smells like you).

I think you're doing the right thing. I was also going to suggest visiting daily, but I understand not driving yourself. When one of my boys was in the hospital a few years back for a few days, I'm lucky enough that (at the time) I lived close enough to walk, but even if that wasn't the case, we have decent public transit. It's not easy to ask for a ride all the time. I get that.

Good luck to Xander!

>76 Taphophile13: That's possible.

>77 anna_in_pdx: It seems the best thing for him at the moment but I don't want him to have to stay away too long. I'm obviously unhappy with how things are going and hope he does heal quicker with proper medical attention.

>78 LibraryCin: Sounds good. I think I will put on something I don't mind him shredding:)

I'll have to wait and see how he does. When I booked him in one thing they did say was if he was too upset after a visit they would ask me to stay away:( But I am trying to do the best for him not for me.

>80 calm: I guess different vets have different policies. All the vet offices I know do not permit owners to visit the patients - the pets think you've come to take them home, and are confused when you leave again. A lot of animals manage better by just settling in and adapting to the new situation.

If you send Xander with any personal items, make sure they are ones you don't mind losing. Sometimes those things get put in the hospital laundry and don't make it back to the owner.

>81 Darth-Heather: Interesting. I'm dithering if it will be best to just leave him with the professionals or find some way to visit him. I'll ask their advice tomorrow.

I am going to give him a bit of time to settle at least and that will also give me an opportunity for some quality time with Lexa and to catch up on the chores I have been neglecting since the accident.

I put on an old t-shirt that I don't mind losing or Xander destroying. All the clothes in the laundry at the moment are things I wear regularly.

A friend of mine once imported a puppy that contracted parvo during her trip. She needed to be boarded during treatment. My friend visited her each day and the staff mentioned that the dog seemed to be calmer when she was there even though they had met each other only days before. Xander may take comfort in your presence and not feel abandoned, who knows?

We're all thinking positive thoughts for Xander and know he'll pull through. You're doing the best for him and he will get the medical attn and care he needs at the vet. He's in good hands.

Xander is now at the vets and they have advised not visiting for a couple of days so that he can settle in. I can phone to check on his progress.

They were happy that I took some of the food and treats that he likes at the moment and also the old t-shirt.

I really hope that with some intensive treatment that he starts healing.

>83 Taphophile13: Thank you. I'll follow the vets advice and see what happens. If he needs me I'll be there.

>84 framboise: Thank you. I'm trying to do my best for him and know, rationally, that it isn't my fault that he was hurt and that the wound isn't healing as well as it could. But I feel so guilty that I didn't keep him safe and that I can't give him the care he needs at the moment.

One other thing, as I don't have pet insurance, I'm thinking of setting up a GoFundMe page to help cover the cost of his vet bills. Has anyone had any experience of running or donating to one of the campaigns? Please let me know if you think it is a good idea or not.

Once again I would like to thank everyone for their kind comments and sharing your experiences and advice.

>85 calm:

One other thing, as I don't have pet insurance, I'm thinking of setting up a GoFundMe page to help cover the cost of his vet bills. Has anyone had any experience of running or donating to one of the campaigns? Please let me know if you think it is a good idea or not.

I have never run one, but have contributed to them*, and I don't see why it wouldn't be a good idea. It gives your friends an easy way to help you out, with no one person taking on too much of an obligation. I always feel that these shared efforts are a nice way for people to come together to help a friend or a project.

* I did so just the other day, to help fund an arts project.

>86 lilithcat: Thanks for the reply. I don't think I need to set one up now. The reason I started thinking about a GoFundMe has changed as we are no longer looking at long term hospitalisation and treatment.

I received a call from the vet who originally operated and she has said that the best thing for Xander is amputation. She said that even with weeks of care the chances were very slim that he would keep the leg. He only has minimal feeling in the lower leg and paw; the wound is infected and he doesn't have much surviving skin on his lower leg and he won't even try to put any weight on it. So everything is worse than I hoped.

They will be operating tomorrow and he might come home later that day or the day after; after that he will only need the post-op checkup and a stitch removal.

This is the best thing for him and I hope that he will adjust quickly and live a long and healthy life.

Sorry Xander has to lose a leg, but he will probably feel much better after he adjusts. Gracie was up and walking around very quickly.

Best wishes to both of you. k4k

Aw, this has got to be hard. Holding you in the light. You are doing what is best for your cat and he will probably adjust quicker than his solicitous human.

>87 calm: awww poor Xander. Fortunately he is young and will recover and adapt well enough. I hope you get him back home soon for some love and care.

Not the outcome we all hoped for but getting ahead of the infection is all important. Wishing Xander a speedy recovery and peaceful time for you.

Thank you all

>88 krazy4katz: The vet said he would recover quickly from the operation and I am pleased to hear that your Gracie did

>89 anna_in_pdx: He has been a lot more relaxed about the whole ordeal than I have. So I am sure that you are correct.

>90 Darth-Heather: He is young and healthy so he should adapt well. I hope he can come home soon as well; his sister wasn't very happy when I came home without him. She was just getting used to him again and getting very close to him (not quite curling up together) but within a few inches and she liked sitting on top of the carrier when he was in it.

and >91 Taphophile13: Definitely not the outcome we hoped for but the vets did the best they could after the accident and his health and recovery is the most important thing to them and me. It will definitely be more peaceful without the frequent trips out of the house. I will be pleased to have some time to rest and recover for us all.

> It will be nice that he doesn't have to stay long with the vet. Hope he's back recovering with you and Lexa soon!

>93 NorthernStar: I am sorry for the reason he is coming home so soon but I am really looking forward to getting back. It doesn't feel right when he isn't here.

At the moment Lexa isn't very happy with me as I have been vaccuuming the house, they both hate it. I've neglected the cleaning a bit since the accident as I didn't want to disturb Xander.

Best wishes for you and Xander. He's lucky to have you as his minion!

>95 anglemark: Thank you. I hope he thinks he's lucky to have me as his minion. For me a house isn't a home without a cat so, to be honest, I am happy that he lives with me:)

That's the thing with cats that have access to the outdoors ... they can always find another home if they are unhappy. I did share one with a lady who lived about half a mile away (maybe a little bit less over the fields) and it was quite amusing when we found out that both of us thought we had been adopted by a stray. I already had my previous two so I was happy to let her claim him.

Good luck to Xander! I'm sure he will be fine with one less leg. And probably feeling better, once it's all done. as well!

You've done everything you can. You've tried everything to see if you can save the leg, but it sounds like this is the best thing. He'll be fine, and it probably won't take long before he doesn't even remember life with the leg!

I'm sorry they couldn't save his leg, but being young and otherwise in good health, I'm sure he'll recover quickly and adapt to his new situation.

My kitties send gentle headbumps.

I am sorry to hear the leg didn't improve and couldn't be saved

From your earlier descriptions, I feared that result and it sounded as tho X would actually be happier 3 legged - but I didn't like to say. Cats seem to cope very well with 3 legs. I'm sorry but I can't think as I write, it was a back leg?

I have to say I am a great fan of indoor or indoor and enclosure cats, when rehoming They have the longest, healthiest lives - just miss out on excitements - and these sort of excitements we could all do without! You spend a bit more per week on litter, if you don't just use dirt - or sand you buy by the trailer, then put in the garden, but they so rarely get injuries, get into fights, catch illnesses, get poisoned by the occasional nutter etc. I remember there was a repeated warning in the London area of a serial killer of cats who would cut their bodies up and there were repeated warnings to not allow your cat outside and to watch and photograph any stranger who was trying to pat and pick up cats. It was really very sad. I don't know if they were ever caught.

I used to be on a pet forum and I was known for waxing lyrical over enclosures for cats and it became a standing joke that I would advise new owners to think about enclosures but in the space of a year, 3 people lost beloved cats on the road - one who lived in a cul de sac and really felt roads were not a problem for her.

I find if you have 2 or 3 cats who get along, its a good life for them and you can buy or make them climbing frames and introduce toys...

Cats adapt marvellously to 3 legs. If it was just a lower leg loss, I would suggest you look at the work of Noel Mc bugger The name has gone. The Supervet - maybe do a gofundme to raise money for a lower leg/paw, but if the major part of the leg has gone, X will be more at ease and comfy as a 3 legger.

I genuinely hope everything now goes fantastically well and hope this is the only problem he has in a long and healthy and happy life.

>99 roomsofbooks:

I would suggest you look at the work of Noel Mc bugger The name has gone.

Whew. For a second there, I thought some poor sap was going through life with the name "McBugger"!

Looks like you might be thinking of Noel Fitzpatrick?
http://www.thesupervet.com/about-the-show/

>100 lilithcat: LOL!

I can't remember how to add a photo here. This is a picture of Gracie checking herself out in the mirror:
https://www.librarything.com/pic/3392120

>103 krazy4katz: Here you go:

>104 lilithcat: Thank you!

She lost her front right leg. She was a feral cat that crawled up inside the front wheel of our car while we were parked at work. When I started driving, she started howling. I stopped of course. My husband had to jack up the car and remove the tire so that we could pull her out. She ran away but we caught her in the corner of a building and brought her to the emergency vet. Then she became ours.

Thanks everyone.

I hope that he will adapt well to being a three legged cat. They are taking the whole leg, It is his back right) left leg and the vet said that taking it off at the top was the best option. I'm sure there will be some things that change but I might be surprised by how much he can do.

As for keeping him as an indoor/enclosure cat it isn't something that is as common in the UK. Obviously I won't let them out when I am not at home in the future and only supervised until I am happy that he can get around.

I live in a very quiet rural area on a back road that doesn't get much traffic, mainly people who live along it and are aware that they might encounter horse riders, dog walkers or escaped sheep around any corner so in the past I wasn't too worried about it. I've had cats here for years without an incident. I was more conerned about one of my neighbour's dogs; the one who caught and shook my Muzzy - but she was old and had slowed down some and he isn't around as often as he used to be.

I've heard of the Supervet and think I saw something about his work somewhere but, as I said, the vet advised taking the whole leg so no prosthetic.

So nice to see a picture of Gracie, what a sweet looking cat. It was very good of you to take care of her and thanks for sharing her story.

Lexa is back to behaving weirdly. She did something she has never done before. I cleaned the litter tray thoroughly after I got home yesterday (Xander had tried to use it and missed) and she spent some time laying in the clean litter so I took her out for a cuddle but she jumped right back in when I let her go. Fortunately she didn't go back there after it was used. She is hanging about in the room where Xander was instead of spending her time with me. I think she really misses her brother.

It will be another 7 or 8 hours before I know if Xander can come home today.

Edited because I mixed up my lefts and rights and only noticed when I was looking back over this thread

I just spoke to the vet and they had only just finished operating so I won't be able to pick him up today.

Apparently the infection was worse than they thought and was attacking the bone so it was definitely the right decision.

>107 calm: I know that this whole event has been very stressful and you're concerned and worried, but from this outside observer's perspective, you've done everything you could have done.

I had a cat, a lovely boy named Zeno, who was hit by a car and lost the use of a front leg. The first months once he was home from the vet's were shocking, as he lurched and fell, but he adjusted and was moving around comfortably and could run and jump just fine eventually. Cats are tremendously resilient. He even enjoyed going out again, especially sunning himself in the garden. Your guy will be back to his old self by Christmas, except now he'll expect you to cook him special meals.

>108 RidgewayGirl: So sorry to hear about your Zeno and thanks sharing the story of his recovery.

I know it will take time for him to adjust. The vet I talked to before the op said that they learn quicker with a rear leg amputation and that they were going to try to teach him to walk on three legs before he comes home, another reason he can't come home until tomorrow. But I'm not expecting too much from him any time soon and think that I will need to encourage him to move around.

I doubt very much if he'll expect me to cook for him as he didn't seem to enjoy anything I tried (except the chicken) and is quite happy eating cat food. That is good for me as I'm not much of a meat eater myself and I won't need to get special things for him.

Aw, it sounds like Lexa is really missing Xander. :'( It's too bad you can't tell her that he's only gone temporarily and will be home soon.

She is and still doesn't want anything to do with me at the moment, she just wants to stay close to where Xander was sleeping. I've told her, repeatedly, that he'll be home soon but I don't think she understood :)

At least she is eating this time and I hope that she behaves more normally when Xander gets home. At least if she freaks out this time I know that she will eventually get used to him again.

Awww, Lexa misses Xander.

Best wishes for Xander's surgery!

I was going to say if it was a hind leg it is much easier to adapt but then I wasn"t sure if it was a foreleg, so again, I didn't like to say so until - or to be truthful, UNLESS you confirmed it was a hindleg. The forelegs take the weight, where the hindlegs are more the forward push, so the balance is mainly done at the front.

In Australia, enclosures for cats would have got you the same looks as people reserve for people who wear pyjamas and dressing gowns at the local shops but in the National Capital, Canberra, there are new suburbs that only allow cats to be kept as pets if indoor or indoor/enclosure only. In the case of these suburbs, it is partly to try to stop the problem of feral cats, but mainly to protect native birds and reptiles and the rare marsupial mice etc. It lessens chance breeding by cats not desexed and in theory, all cats should also be microchipped and desexed.

The practise of indoor/enclosure is actually growing a LOT in the UK.

I went looking for a UK site to let you see how fairly catmad UK residents are thinking and there is the UK petforum which within the cat chat section has a special section Cat enclosures and cat proofing backyards, and it runs 56 pages and there are lots of examples and discussions on how to do it cheaper, DIY. Certainly the catproofing of backyards is a new and busy little industry and you can see a number of specialist businesses now operate. A lot of businesses who made aviaries and hen yards are now offering cat enclosures, due to increasing enquiries.

Many people introduce themselves as having recently lost a cat to a car in city and quiet rural areas and are now determined to prevent it ever happening again.

One person living in the UK said that their neighbour/s had thrown acid in one cat's face, burnt one? Broken one cat's tail by holding it by its tail and spinning it around until they let go (That cat had to have it's tail amputated), and more...

Just horrifying.

There is still a serial cat killer/slaughterer. Another thing I checked after no info for a year or more. His total is between 300 and 450 confirmed. Almost all have not been found simply dead, but butchered. The greatest distress is, were they dead first? Mainly, they are decapitated but often feet are cut off as well. Some people call him the Croyden cat killer, as I believe that was an area where a lot of cats went missing and often reappeared with heads and feet cut off or skinned etc on owner's doorsteps or in their backyards, but I believe the same kills have been recorded in Manchester and Brighton and a couple of other places - but mostly the cats of London are at risk. There is a special police unit working on this permanently and it is still happening I believe. I did read that a 24 yo man was arrested after 2 cats were butchered and left in Truro Cathedral recently BUT there is now also the fear of copycat killers - and this might well be just a copycat sick bastard.

I did read of a girl, I think in her teens, who spotted a youngish white blond man grabbing her cat, as she neared her front door and he had shoved the cat in a zipped carrybag but she was screaming and gave chase and apparently, he grabbed the cat and threw it at her to stop her and escaped.

These warnings to keep your cat inside have been going for at least 4 years, I believe.

>112 Narilka: She's still hanging around in the other room. She is happy to get some attention as long as I don't try to take her anywhere else. I can hear her eating her kibble at the moment.

>113 roomsofbooks: thanks for the information.

All my cats were neutered as soon as they were old enough and when I took Xander to the vet they confirmed that his microchip is still working.

This morning's update

I still don't know if he can come home today. I need to phone again later today. Of course I am concerned about how he is but they didn't give me much information. I only spoke to the receptionist this time. If something was really wrong I am sure that one of the vets or nursing staff would have wanted to speak to me.

>100 lilithcat: Lol from me as well

I did mix a Mc for a Fitz but I always find myself unable to remember if it's Fitzharding or Fitzpatrick.

I think it was partly the sadness of the incident. Fuzzed my head

His work is amazing. There is a tv series I believe and one of the animals featured is a black and white cat that had BOTH hind feet cut off by a combine harvester, I think on an island in the south of England?

I think, yes, I think his name was Oscar? and you can google him, and I believe he was the first cat to have 2 feet replaced.

NF has made millions from his patents, developing ways to embed a framework that allows bone to reform, strong enough to then have the equiv of a bit of metal lower leg and foot embedded into it and then have it be able to cope with cat antics. Very cleverly, he has an 'ankle' of plastic, so that if by chance, a cat gets his fake foot stuck somewhere, it has a weakest point that snaps long before stress fractures would happen in the repaired leg. It is a very easy job then, to just replace the plastic held by the metal.

It is incredibly clever and a lot of his work is being used for humans, as well.

He is also known for the biggest heart. Many pensioners have come and received operations on their loved pets, worth £10/20000 and just repay what they can, each week, indefinitely

He won't try for an animal he genuinely thinks will not make it or have a decent quality of life - and he does these things for people who desperately love their pets and can't really go anywhere else.

It always makes me laugh... I don't know one woman who is an animal activist or obsessed with animal welfare, who doesn't, on hearing about him, immediately ask, "Is he married?"

>101 anna_in_pdx: Yes, thank you. Senior moments becoming Senior Feature Films...

I usually remember the Fitz part but I CANNOT ever remember if it is Fitzharding or Fitzpatrick

I think it was the worry of the cat here and animal stresses at home.

I seem to have lost a long reply on an edit.

>116 roomsofbooks: Sorry to hear that you are having animal stresses at home. I hope things turn out well for you and the animal(s) concerned.

I hope all continues to go well with Xander and, if you do need help with the vet bills, I'm sure that members of this group would be happy to chip in, so do post if you do set up a funding page.

In fact, enclosures for cats are far rarer in Australia but some new suburbs in the national capital, Canberra, now only allow cats as indoor or indoor/enclosure cats and in theory, all should be desexed and microchipped. It appears to be the way all devoted cat owners are heading

In Australia, it is an attempt to greatly reduce feral cats, the general cat overpopulation and the killing of native birds, reptiles and small marsupials.

In the UK, the numbers of people now using enclosures and/or 'catproofing' backyards is starting a small explosion of specialist companies. Aviary and hen enclosure businesses are now displaying cat enclosures due to enquiries.

The UK pet forum has a cat chat area that has a specialist section for cat enclosures and cat proofing backyards and that has 56 pages and counting. There are some fabulous enclosures shown and tips for doing these things DIY, cheaply.

I also looked for latest info on the cat serial killer. Numbers vary but at the moment, its said to be between 300 and 450 that are accepted as his deliberate killing. Most are butchered horribly and sometimes left outside owners front doors or thrown over the back fence or left in a local car parks, etc

Many cats are decapitated, some have paws cut off or otherwise mutilated. The great distress is nobody knows if this is after death.

He was known as the London cat killer or the Croyden cat killer, as I think that was an earlier and frequent area he chose to kill BUT he seems also to have killed in Manchester and Brighton? and a few other places but there is also a fear of copycat killers confusing things

I did read that after 2 cats were found butchered in Truro Cathedral, a 24 yo male was arrested - but nobody knows if he was a copycat killer or just another deeply sick individual or THE cat killer

I also read of a young woman, possibly late teens? who was almost at her front door when she saw a young white man, with blond hair, pick up her cat, then shove it in a zippered bag. She screamed and ran after him and he unzipped the bag and threw the cat at her and got away.

I was constantly amazed at how many loving London cat lovers told me they knew nothing of the warnings to keep cats inside, ESPECIALLY in the hours of darkness. I think I might have first heard of these horrific killings and warnings about 3 or 4 years ago and I am in Oz.

There is dedicated team of police working on it permanently and there were contact details but being in Oz, I didn't feel I would need to refer to it.

House/enclosure life ends local bully cats causing repeated ear and face slashes and stops cats from getting most viruses, as well as bacterial infections from fights. It stops traffic injuries, nutter poisonings or killings - as yet no cat appears to have been taken from enclosures...

It ends hours of walking streets, calling until they turn up 2 days later, looking like sulky teens. It seems to prevent cats being stolen - especially if on top of the enclosure you have security camera warnings. It also ends loved cats accidentally locked in neighbours sheds, or garaged cars, perhaps to not be noticed until too late - or sitting under cars or getting stuck in a rabbit burrow and dying.

People contact local tree surgeons and get big branches to make fabulous climbing trees and make cat nests for them to climb into... They make extraordinary adventure playgrounds for their loved cats and the big joy is all these cat lovers are sharing ideas to do it really cheaply. Tho you CAN pay a fortune.

If you visit the pet forum site, you will be saddened at how many people say they have come because they have just lost a loved cat

One person had a neighbour who threw acid in one of her cat's face. That same person said another cat was set alight, another had to have it's tail amputated after being swung around by the tail and thrown!

I wouldn't be living there, myself - but nothing more has happened to the cats, once they were safely in Cat Colditz.

It does seem to give the best guarantee for a long and healthy life. Apart from old age, you would only have renal failure or a weak heart etc, to worry about.

>119 Zambaco: - Thank you, I hope it goes well with Xander as well ... still a couple of hours until I can call.

If this has left me too far in debt and I can't get the money elsewhere, I might set up a GoFundMe.

I'm one of those people who have never had a bank loan; credit card or borrowed from anyone as it is difficult for me to ask for help.

>120 roomsofbooks: I think now is the time for you to take that soapbox somewhere else.

>117 roomsofbooks: >120 roomsofbooks: You didn't lose the post in >115 roomsofbooks: when you edited.

It is still useful information so thank you again.

I did know about the Cat Killer and the possible copy cats, there are some sick people around.

But I don't really need to hear all that again when I am worried about my boy

Don't be ashamed to ask - we are all cat lovers and know how it feels.

>124 Zambaco: - I know, Thank you.

I just called the vets and Xander is coming home today.

A neighbour is taking one of her cats to the vets this afternoon so I will be going with her. The poor thing had to have a number of teeth extracted and is going in for a post-op checkup.

>121 calm: It is always difficult to ask for help. We want to be the helper, never the one in need. Think of it this way: people like to help and you are giving others the chance to do just that. If no one ever needed assistance no one would have the opportunity to render aid. And the day may come when you will be in a position to help someone else. I'm sure many here would like to be able to do more than just offer words of support. We've come to love your little boy too.

So happy to hear Xander is coming home. May he have an uneventful recovery.

I just picked up on this thread yesterday. Glad to read that Xander is coming home today. For a while, we had three cats; lost two of them in 2016- one to cancer, the other to old age. We still miss them and treasure our remaining cat who adopted us 5 years ago.

>121 calm: please do let us know if you do the GoFundMe. I care about all the kitties and love to help them.

I will be interested to hear about Xander's progress once he is safely ensconced at home. I have nursed many different feline ailments, but haven't had to handle an amputation (knock wood).

The one rule that always proves true - they take their emotional cues from us. As long as he sees your love and positive outlook, he will get there just fine. Keep telling him how handsome he is and praise his efforts to adjust, and he will figure out this step of his journey.

I'm happy to hear Xander is coming home!

I also do think the info >120 roomsofbooks: has provided is good information. I was just going to add that the city I live in (in Canada) has a bylaw (though the cats don't know this!) that cats are supposed to stay in their yard. As part of what the contract most rescues have people sign include that your cat will not be allowed to wander. I will stop there on that topic.

We're home.

Apparently he wasn't very happy at the vets and they had trouble getting him to eat or move.

I was let into their boarding area, as my friend had to wait to see her vet who was dealing with an emergency. As soon as I got there he perked up. When the nurse left the room I offered him the bowl of chicken they had given him and he licked it clean:)

He also sat up and had lots of strokes, there was much purring and he wriggled towards me. When the vet came in to discuss aftercare he went to the back of the cage and attempted the cat circle before settling down thing.

Now we are home he tried to get out of the carrier but I don't think he could get enough traction to manage. So I helped him out. He has eaten some cat food, drunk some water and got himself back into the carrier which I left about three or four feet away from the food. It wasn't walking but the same way he was moving with the injured leg but it is a positive sign.

While he was out of the carrier Lexa sat in it for a short time, then on top of it. She is now laying in a patch of sunlight half way between me and Xander; very relaxed :)

>130 calm: Happy homecoming. Now all of you can just relax and recover.

>126 Taphophile13: Ok I understand, I have helped people in the past and hope to be able to do so again in the future so I shouldn't feel too bad; it is still a difficult thing to admit that you need any help. I was taught at a very young age that if I wanted something I needed to do it for myself.

>127 Marcial87: I lost both my older cats in 2016 so know how hard it is. I am sure the one you have is given a lot of love.

>128 Darth-Heather: The vet seemed pretty positive about a quick recovery. She even said that he could be allowed out once the wound healed. So far, we've been home less than an hour, things seem to be going well. I will be happy to keep you all updated on his progress. I was so relieved that he was happy to see me at the vets and that both cats seem pretty relaxed at the moment.

>129 LibraryCin: Good luck on explaining that bylaw to a cat. I lived in a house with a high stonewalled back garden at one point, it probably couldn't have looked more cat proof unless there was a wire netting roof over the the top, and still got visiting cats:)

>131 Taphophile13: Will do :)

I'm so glad he's home and both cats are settling down. What a relief!

>134 reconditereader: yes It is a relief. I think I will leave them both to relax for a while and see what happens.

>130 calm: That's wonderful! And I know his movements now are heartbreaking to watch now, but it's amazing how quickly cats adjust. He'll be moving around comfortably a surprisingly short amount of time. Enjoy time with both of your lovely cats.

A cat family reunited! I know this will have a happy ending. Best wishes to you, Xander and Lexa!

Calm, thanks for the report, so glad he's back home and happy to be there. Sending the best vibes to all three of you.

>136 RidgewayGirl: - he is already moving better. He is still in the cage and it took a few cat treats to encourage him closer to the door so I could take him out to give him his medication and offer him food and water. As soon as he realised that he wasn't getting any more treats he turned tail and got straight back in the cage. He definitely had his body higher off the ground but I guess he wasn't hungry or thirsty.

Lexa is spending her time in the same room; in her cage which is on a table. She was interested while he was out ... but that might have been the treats :)

>137 krazy4katz: All back together. He still needs recovery time but I hope that things go smoothly now.

>138 anna_in_pdx: I'm not sure how happy he is at the moment but I'm happy that he is here. Thank you for the best vibes.

>130 calm: Happy to hear everyone is home and seemingly relaxed! Good luck with recovery! I'm sure Xander feels so much better, just being home with you!

>132 calm: Well, the idea with the bylaw is that the owners are to keep kitty inside, or on a leash, or have an enclosure. Or, keep an eye on them to be sure they stay in the yard, not to let them roam free.

Actually, our city is very well regarded when it comes to responsible pet ownership bylaws and such. Cats (like dogs) are also supposed to be licensed. I believe the money from that goes to spay/neuter the strays that come in to the city (the "pound") before they are adopted out again.

>141 LibraryCin: They do both seem relaxed. I hope Xander is happier here. He does seem to want to be left alone at the moment though.

"It is in the nature of cats to do a certain amount of unescorted roaming. " - Adlai Stevenson, vetoing proposed legislation requiring cats to be restrained. (Full text here: https://www.bartleby.com/73/163.html)

>142 LibraryCin: - the first three could work but most cats I have known move faster than me so if they make an escape attempt it would be pretty difficult to stop them.

>144 lilithcat: I definitely think they are happier when they can go out; lay in the sun; nibble the grass and chase small furry creatures. Fortunately these two don't often bring "presents" home and when they do they are usually alive and unharmed so I can catch and release.

I am glad he is home and I am sorry if I sounded like I was preaching and on a soapbox - but if I felt there were people who didn't know about the CK and I could have warned them, and something happened, I would never forgive myself. Whether people act on it, is not something I can reproach myself about and I wasn't going to mention it further but I have been shocked at how many people not obsessed enough by their cats to join a forum on cats, as we have on books, (even in areas where the killer concentrates), have said they don't know or don't realise the numbers and seriousness of the threat.

This was the only place I thought I could probably reach a lot of Brit cat owners here and at least warn and I only wanted to put out the advantages of limiting cat territory, as people often brush it off as not for them or too boring for their cats, when they can make them similar to preschools with fun things - and as I said, it is often after a loss that people act - and so many say how they wish they had thought about this and acted sooner - before the big vet bill or loss - but some haven't the ability to do it - tho some on the 1st or second floor make their balconies cat safe and behaviour enriched

I understand that this is a thread about calm and Xander and I feel distressed that this has happened - but in rescue, with many cats needing best food and care, I am always proactive in reducing risks and vet bills BEFORE they exist. I finance all my rescues. No help. Like calm, I have limited funds but from long experience, seek to lessen likely costs BEFORE rather than later - and it is far harder to find adopters for cats with problems - and if any cat is hurt on my watch, I never forgive myself, never lose the guilt - even if it is because I didn't voice a warning, when I felt I could have.

I am not pushy enough to launch lectures on people with no reason but it is just that here, the advantages are easily seen and whilst it can't help X, it might mean that another cat's owner acts in 6 months and unknowingly saves their cat from a health destroying virus or accident.

I am sorry for not allowing calm to have all the attention and support they need and deserve at this distressful time and for boring others, but it is the equivalent of stopping to help a kitten run over on the road and seeing 4 others in danger but only responding to the one needing immediate help and leaving the other four behind, at risk.

I didn't put lots of photos up and just let people know where to investigate as a first step and then just responded to calm saying that enclosures aren't considered in the UK, but in fact, it is a small and expanding movement that is seeing specialist businesses starting up and expanding - and it is probably unlikely that an Australian would be better informed than an English resident - but it all depends on the people you mix with...

As for info on NF, many pet owners have no idea what CAN be done now and it is moving and fascinating to see and it might have been a real gofundme goal that calm could have used IF It had been a lower injury, which is why I asked again, if it was higher up and said at the time, if higher up, X would be far happier as just a 3 legger.

I will withdraw from the thread as I don't feel any of my advice or even comment is welcomed by calm, who has a great deal of worry and distress. It's just that I have multi decades of experience in dog and cat rescue and care, as in hundreds of dogs and cats of multi ages and states of health and soundness... I don't come from a background of a couple of dogs and cats for 50 years. I have experience on a level does have value.

As to being able to nibble grass etc, a number of enclosures have lawns Cats can live in backyards 40 metres long and wide, with fruit trees and more personal lawn than most Brits can claim- but they can't leave their own backyard. Some enclosures are far larger than other people's backyards and have fruit trees in them and specialist beds of catnip and cat grasses. Often the enclosures are the equivalent of a rolls royce not a clapped out and dying jap bomb. Many city terrace cats could only DREAM of the enclosures and backyards of these adored and indulged moggies.

Once again, I hope X has a very long, happy and healthy future.

PS i don't know what happened, tho I repeatedly looked, I couldn't see ANY sign of the post I lost and repeated info.

I genuinely repeatedly looked and did the equiv of patting myself down and emptying my pockets and turned about in disbelief but could see no sign of it.

Thank you for some nice comments from some people. I am not at all peeved or miffed in my withdrawal and am happy to chat to anyone on animal problems but even in Oz, I could feel I was really not required here on this thread.

That's a great Xander and Lexa update! Hopefully now he can really start healing.

I'm just now seeing this thread. I'm so glad Xander is home. Hoping he adjusts quickly.

>147 roomsofbooks: and >148 roomsofbooks: Please don't feel that you are not welcome here. Actually it could be useful for you to start your own thread in this group where you can post link to articles and further information.

Sometimes the forum can be a bit glitchy, double posting and/or taking a bit of time to show edits.

I didn't make the soapbox comment or say that I was offended. I said that you had already given that information and, at the moment, I didn't need to hear it again. I did thank you and say that it was useful information the first time you posted. I didn't say that I already knew as I thought I didn't need to do so.

In the end it did feel like you were lecturing me and I don't like the implication that I am not a responsible pet owner. Yes after something happened I do feel guilty but :-

1) I do not live in an urban area where indoor/enclosed cats are more common. I live on a very narrow lane which is not on a direct route to any village and there are only a dozen or so houses along the lane so there is very little traffic and as I have said it is the sort of road where people tend to be careful as it is used by dogwalkers; horseriders and there can be escaped livestock.

Then they are not given outdoor access 24/7. They are only let out between breakfast and supper (and in the winter I get them in before it gets dark) and I do keep an eye on them during the day. They have access to a large garden. Lexa is very happy staying within those limits but Xander is friend's with the cat who lives across the road. It visits me (and is unhappy about not being let into my house at the moment) and Xander did spend time in their garden.

2) All the cats who have lived with me have been neutered and when I got Lexa and Xander I had them microchipped.

3) We no longer have a feral problem in my area as I advocated for the Cats Protection League's catch; neuter and release program when I moved here. I haven't had a stray turn up for years; any visitors have been neighbouring cats.

4) I found Xander shortly after the accident and got him to the vets as soon as possible. The vets gave him their best to try and save the leg. It was unfortunate that it didn't succeed but we did what was best for him.

>149 Narilka: They are still hanging out near to each other in the same room. I just have to be careful that they don't start play-fighting before his wound heals.

>150 thornton37814: thank you I hope so too

Update

When I went into the room this morning Xander came out the carrier and he seemed to move slightly better. He got his rear end over the lip of the carrier with no problem and looked like he was standing up more and moved about half way across the room towards me.

After some strokes I went to get them some food but before it was in the bowls he went straight back to the carrier (that was more of a scamble) and didn't want to come out again.

So I have come onto LT for a short time while I have some coffee and will go and try to feed him and give him his medication soon.

Great news! Sounds like Xander is recovering at his own pace and the prognosis is good. Please continue to keep us updated - I'm sneaking onto LibraryThing when I'm supposed to be working just to see how things are going!

>153 Zambaco: - Thanks for sneaking in:)

Xander came out and had some food, water and I gave him his medications. The wound is looking good so far.

After seeing that he can get out when he wants to I am quite pleased that he wants to be somewhere safe to rest and sleep.

Lexa has decided that she wants to play, I managed to distract her for sometime with her favourite toys (which she has ignored since he was first hurt) and she has settled down again. This time on the fleecy pet blanket that is between Xander's cage and his food bowls.

Edit - if she decides to pounce on him when he comes out I will have to separate them when he does.

>154 calm: Thanks for keeping us updated. Xander's status seems good. He must feel so comfortable and safe back in his familiar surroundings. I'm sure he will acclimate to his new body soon. I am a cat volunteer at the ASPCA and have seen many adult cats who've had a limb amputated and are just as sweet and agile as ever.

P.S. I just realized about your 2 cats' names; cute!

>155 framboise: "P.S. I just realized about your 2 cats' names; cute!"

Oh please tell. I didn't realize anything!

>156 krazy4katz: Both nicknames of Alexander/Alexandra, perhaps? Since they're brother and sister.

>157 framboise: Oh how clever!

>155 framboise: Thank you for that. The vets have been telling me the same but it is good to get personal experiences of amputees.

>155 framboise: >157 framboise: Well spotted. You are correct :)

>156 krazy4katz: >158 krazy4katz: Don't worry I think framboise is the first person to get it without being told.

This morning's update

I took Xander for his post-op checkup. We actually saw the vet who was on duty for the first out-of-hours visit. He was happy with how the wound is healing and, barring anything going wrong, we don't need to go back for a week. Then the stitches will be removed. We put Xander on the floor to see how he was moving and it seems to be about as expected; it will take time for him to regain his sense of balance.

When we got home he got straight out of the cage; into the hallway; had a bit of a rest and is now under my bed. So I am in my bedroom with him. I do need to make sure that his sister doesn't get too physical with him until the wound has healed.

Overnight he used the litter tray, he didn't manage to poop in it (that was on the floor) but at least there were no wet spots. He is eating well, all the wet food and some of his kibble, and he really enjoyed the grooming I gave him yesterday. He was quite happy to roll on his back to let me do his undercarriage which let me have a good look at the stitches.

So things are going well and I hope that by next week he will be moving more and won't need to find safe places to hide.

He got on the bed! It was a bit of a scramble but he did it.

>160 calm: We're all rooting for him . He'll be up to his usual kitty antics in no time.
And speaking of poop on the floor, I have temporarily had my sister's cat with me and my cat Lexi for 2 months now (more than double the work of 1 because they're not friends) & she pooped on the floor right next to her litter box the other day! It couldn't have been any closer!

>161 framboise: I know and am very grateful for all the support we have received since the accident.
As long as his usual kitty antics don't involve crossing the road to play with his friend I will be very relieved:)

Sorry that Lexi doesn't get on with your sister's cat. I hope they manage to adapt to each other before too long, or that your sister's cat goes home. They do have their ways of knowing that they are not happy about something, I just wish it didn't involve peeing and pooping in inappropriate places.

This morning's was right next to the litter box as well. I think he just managed to get enough of his bottom in to pee and at least he managed to keep it out of his tail this time. So he is trying to use the box.

Edit - he just hopped off the bed, it looked easier than getting up in the first place. I think it is time for lunch :)

Things are looking up!

He is obviously feeling better :) Great progress Xander!

>163 Zambaco: They certainly seem to be. I'll relax more when the stitches are removed.

>164 Narilka: He is. I was so surprised that he did so much today.

>159 calm: I missed the "Alexander" connection, as well! Catchy!

That sounds great for Xander! So happy he's doing so well!

>166 LibraryCin: Well it is an easy connection to miss. I always intended to call the girl Lexa, short for Alexandra, and when I ended up with two it took a bit of time to think of his name but it just felt right to connect the names and Xander fits his character:)

They are both back in the room with food, water and litter box. Last time I looked they were both in the cat carriers. He did come back up onto the bed again, I groomed him and after he got down went back under it. I had to coax him out with cat treats to give him his supper and medication. He was also interested when I was playing with Lexa, though not up to chasing the ball I was rolling along the floor at the time.

Thanks for the updates, sounds like Xander is on the road to recovery.

>168 NorthernStar: Thank you, it does look positive so far.

More progress - this morning they weren't in their carriers (I don't put the doors on them unless I am taking them out of the house). When I went into the room Xander came towards me and, I think, it is getting easier for him. After good morning strokes I started putting the food in the bowls and they both sat near the usual feeding space, so I don't need to leave Xander's food close to the comfortable area I set up for him. He ate all the wet food I put down for him before returning to the carrier. As he has lost some weight I might put more wet food down next time he comes out; though he has started eating some kibble.

Such great progress in just a few days. Amazing.

Btw, how smart of you to have them hang out in their carriers at home and associate them with comfort so they're not terrified of them when brought out for the annual vet visit (or travel from home, etc.).

>170 framboise: I hope he isn't taking things too fast - I don't want him breaking the stitches.

Neither of them wanted to eat when I put more food down. But they are not used to having a meal in the middle of the day. Before this happened I only fed them twice a day, morning and evening. I just changed to little and often while Xander wasn't eating very much.

The carrier thing was a bit of serendipity. I didn't put one away after they were neutered and they both enjoyed spending time in it. Xander has been very good with all the travelling and time in the waiting room, maybe leaving a carrier available for hanging out has helped relieve the stress.

At the moment both of them are relaxing in the bedroom. Xander under the bed and Lexa on a chest of drawers.

>170 framboise: I tend to leave mine out all the time, so they have to option to use them when they want to just "hide out". They don't often, though it's more common (for mine, anyway!) to do so shortly after returning from the vet's.

And >171 calm: it's nice to hear about all the great progress Xander is making!

>172 LibraryCin: - pleased to see that I'm not the only one and like yours mine are using them more frequently at the moment.

>173 LibraryCin: Well he is definitely more active. He finds going down easier than getting up onto things. Though he seems to be getting quicker at both. He is quieter as he moves around. I almost tripped over him when he snuck up behind me while I was doing the dishes!

One thing that is a bit upsetting is when he tries to scratch. He gets his head as close to the stump as possible, moves it and seems quite shocked by nothing happening :(

>174 calm: "One thing that is a bit upsetting is when he tries to scratch. He gets his head as close to the stump as possible, moves it and seems quite shocked by nothing happening :( "

I wouldn't be surprised if cats had phantom limb syndrome just like people. Occasionally I saw Gracie's right shoulder twitch when she was trying to catch something. Then she would have to rearrange herself to catch with the left side.

One thing that is a bit upsetting is when he tries to scratch. He gets his head as close to the stump as possible, moves it and seems quite shocked by nothing happening :(

Awwww, that's got to be frustrating!

>174 calm: Did they not put a cone around his neck to prevent scratching?

>172 LibraryCin: & >174 calm: I think leaving the carrier out is a great idea. But I take Lexi to the vet by train so it is dirty and I wouldn't want it on my floor. Luckily, she is pretty easy to trick getting in the bag!

>177 framboise: Ah, that makes sense. I take the bus to the vet, but usually hold it on my lap or have it on the seat beside me.

>175 krazy4katz: That is a thought, we just don't know what it is like for them. He was just trying to do something that was natural; I hope that he will find a way to cope.

>176 LibraryCin: It was just the look on his face - he so wanted to scratch that itch. He was definitely frustrated.

>177 framboise: No cone; the vet said if he overgroomed the stitches he should have one but he doesn't seem to be bothered. He wasn't trying to scratch the wound but to use the missing leg to scratch his neck or ear.

>177 framboise: and >178 LibraryCin: That's the trouble with public transport. I don't live near a bus stop, it is nearly 2 miles away, and I would need to take two buses to get to the vet as well. So I doubt very much if it would be possible for me.
Leaving a carrier out does mean that it needs regular cleaning.

Update

Wound looks good. I was a bit worried as he attempted to jump from the bed to the chest of drawers and ended up on the floor between them. Fortunately it doesn't look like any damage was done.

He is still pooping outside the litter tray:( I hope that doesn't become a habit and that he learns to use it again.

Lexa has had a bit of a mad morning - chasing her ball; jumping up onto the top of the door; wrestling with the pet blanket. While that was going on he lay in the hallway, staying out of her way, just watching. She is a bit quieter now but she is sitting by a window so I think she wants to go out. Xander is back in the carrier again, so I might shut him in so that she can have some outside time, without me having to worry about him escaping.

I've just seen your thread and its so nice to see that Xander is recovering well. Very, very tentative suggestion - I just wondered if he might like to go outside - i.e. in his closed carrier - for a little while. As I say, just a suggestion.

My dear beloved Group and >179 calm: .

Have you all noticed how much we (members of CBLIG) all wanted to talk about CATS again.

Calms, cats accidents, gave us an excuse to talk once again.

I want to talk about CATS once again. I want to see CAT pictures from our members again.

I want CAT talk again.

Of course I am happy that "X" seems to be getting better!

But...I want to talk about ALL of CAT HOOD.

Guido.

>180 patchygirl: - hello, the vet said to keep him inside until the stitches are removed. He loved being outside so I am afraid that just being out in the carrier would be frustrating for him.

>181 guido47: - I agree we like to talk about our cats. I'm sorry that it took Xander's accident to bring people back again. There has been a bit more activity elsewhere in the group including some new pictures and I guess we need someway to keep the momentum.

Does anyone like the idea of an ongoing "Recent Antics of our Cats" thread? The things they do that make us smile, that make us just fall in love again or the trouble they cause.

>182 calm: - no problem - I'm sure you're doing the right thing. 'Cat Antics' is a lovely idea! Our two are a bit staid and middle-aged (but lovely, of course) these days but I'd love to read about kitty adventures.

>179 calm:

He is still pooping outside the litter tray:( I hope that doesn't become a habit and that he learns to use it again.

I wonder if you might try to find a tray that has lower sides and so might be easier for him to get into?

>182 calm:

Does anyone like the idea of an ongoing "Recent Antics of our Cats" thread?

Splendid idea!

>183 patchygirl: I hope so. He has been outside in the carrier when we visited the vets and most of the time he was very good. The only time he got upset was when I moved down to a quiet part of the car park so I'm really not sure how he would react at home. Stitches come out at the end of the week and, hopefully, we can begin supervised time outdoors.

>184 lilithcat: Good idea, I'll see if I have anything suitable in the house as a temporary measure until I can get to town and see what is available.

As for Cat Antics as the group admininstrator do you want to set up the thread or shall I?

Second litter box found. I had an old one with a slight crack in a corner which is smaller than the one they have been using and I don't think it is will leak.

I put it over the place where Xander pooped last night. He hasn't shown any interest yet but Lexa used it shortly after I put it down.

>185 calm:

Oh, do feel free to start the thread!

>187 lilithcat: Done:) I think that most things my two have been up to recently are in this thread so I didn't share the stories again

Please look here - https://www.librarything.com/topic/293977 and tell us all about your cats:)

>188 calm: That's a wonderful idea. I have loads of anecdotes, as I have had my sister's cat with us for the last 2 months; she and my cat are not friends :(

>189 framboise: I look forward to hearing what the cats have been doing.

Today's Update

Xander had another attempt at jumping from one surface to another yesterday. This time onto my clothes rail, one of the spots he likes to rest, he does like being up as high as he can :) He didn't make it to the top but he didn't fall as he caught onto the fabric covering it. But, after that, his walking slowed down, he would take a few steps and then sit down and he hasn't even tried getting onto the bed since then. I hope that he didn't do too much damage. He didn't tear the wound, though the stump did feel warmer.

This morning he does seem better, he looks more balanced and he went further before sitting. He still hasn't tried to climb yet. I'm hoping that he knows how much he can do and is taking the time to rest.

He has stopped hiding under the bed or in the carrier. He is curled up against the wall in the hallway at the moment and also spent a lot of time there yesterday.

As for adding a second litter tray, when I got up this morning someone had tipped it over - I don't know which cat did that though it is the sort of thing that Lexa tends to do but it could just have been a result of Xander getting out. It had been used for pee and he actually pooped in the original one (I can tell the difference between the two). I will leave the two trays out for now.

>190 calm: that sounds like substantial progress. One of the hardest things for him to relearn is how to balance in the litter box, but he will get it down. Good luck to you Xander! You can do this!

>191 Darth-Heather: Well there was a little bit (not all of it) outside the box again this morning :( I'm sure he will get the hang of it again sometime.

Update

Still no more attempts to climb or jump onto anything.

The wound looks very good, it is clean and closing well. Though it does still feel a little warmer than the rest of his body.

He is out of the carrier more often but still likes it in there.

Walking is going well, I think. Sometimes his back end is low to the ground and he drags his tail but he does seem to be walking further in one go.

Sometimes when he sits he crosses the good leg under his body and rests the stump on it.

His appetite is still good, he gets to the feeding area very quickly while I am putting the food in their bowls. I'm not sure if he has started to regain the weight he lost. I will ask the vet to weigh him when he goes to have his stitches out Saturday morning.

His fur has started growing back on the shaved areas.

They've both been pretty quiet today but I did leave them alone while I went to the village shop to get some essentials.

>192 calm: Great progress. Good sign he is moving about and of course, a good appetite is always positive.

If you have time & are so inclined, please share some pics/videos of his progress. Plus, we'd like to see how handsome he is as an adult :)

>193 framboise: I really would love to share some photos - I haven't managed to get one that really shows that his leg was amputated but I do have some of him bandaged.
I've got a couple for the cat antics thread as well. Lexa jumped from my bed onto the door and I had my phone within reach for once.

I found the cable and software for my phone. It took several attempts to get things loaded and then for it to recognise the phone.

Once it did work I couldn't remember how to get the photos from my phone; onto my computer and uploaded to LT. I'll try again sometime today.

Update

Xander is scurrying around but doesn't seem as hungry - he didn't want his supper last night (though the bowls were empty this morning so I hope he ate) and didn't want his breakfast this morning - he ran and hid under the bed as soon as I opened the door.

I witnessed him using the litter box; he is trying very hard; managed to scratch; but is definitely having some difficulty turning and balancing. When he tried to cover things he ended up flat on his stomach and I think that is how the poop is getting outside the tray ... It is in his fur and drops off when he gets out and some was in his bedding this morning as well!

He still isn't trying to climb or jump so I opened a window to let Lexa out but while it was open the neighbour's cat came in so I didn't leave it open once Lexa came back in. I don't know how it will react to Xander and don't want to try to keep them apart if things don't go well.

Vet's tomorrow and I hope that they are happy with him and his progress.

The story so far in photos

First steps outside

Xander outside a few months before the accident.

The lane I thought was safe

With bandage

each bandage change was a different colour. I didn't get photos of red and purple.

Not very clear but his leg has gone

Still friends

Oh he's such a fluffy boy! & that tail! Beautiful. Thanks for all the pics.

I hope the vet visit is good. Seems like he is progressing.

>196 framboise: He is fluffy but fortunately he likes being groomed, though he can get annoyed when I try to groom his underside, especially if anywhere gets knotted. And he doesn't like having his tail brushed.

I hope that the vet is pleased as well.

Dear >197 calm:

I have a ritual each morning. Max is let outside. Buffy gets her Strokes of the 2 different brushes. I started with 100, but it's now 150 strokes.

Then food etc. But there is always food available.

The underside of a CAT is a very delicate region. Sometimes 4 strokes is JUST right, sometimes 5 will get you a bite!

Who knows? They are CATS!

>198 guido47: I don't think I have ever counted - I just keep going until all his coat is smooth and unknotted, unless he decides he has had enough. He doesn't bite - just grabs hold of brush or comb and sometimes my arm or hand. His claws are sharp!

Mine always have access to kibble and get wet food morning and evening and treats two or three times a day.

I know the underside is delicate but, unfortunately, that is where he gets matted if I don't groom regularly. So he gets a lot more than 4 strokes, there is a lot of very fine fur that needs de-tangling:)

Thanks for the photos! Xander is beautiful.

>200 Narilka: You're welcome. I think he is a beautiful cat as well :)

>198 guido47: 100 or 150 strokes! Wow, you have a different kind of cat than I do. Lexi is good for 5-10 brushes; I had to train her to tolerate and sit for it because she knows treats are coming. But her tail still fluffs up due to the stimulation.

>202 framboise: hearing all this makes me love Xander even more. Most of the time he enjoys being groomed :)

Today's update

Xander has been to the vets. They are very pleased, though at some point in the last week he took the stitches out himself. Unless something goes wrong he doesn't need to go back or take any more medication.

He has healed well and is making good progress with his movement and balance. They did advise catifying things so that he has steps or some way to get up off the floor so he doesn't have to jump too much.

He is still hiding under the bed:( When I tried to put him in the carrier this morning he bolted and it was a bit of a struggle to get him out.

Once we got moving and arrived at the vets he was his usual layed back self and didn't join the cat chorus that was going on at one point :) On the way home he curled up and seemed quite content to enjoy the journey.

When I got home Lexa had cleared both food bowls, he only ate a couple of mouthfuls earlier. So I put some more food down, he started eating but a vehicle passed the house and he bolted. I just hope things are a bit quieter next time he eats. But it could be a good sign for the future when he goes outside again.

I set up that Gofundme for Xander. The amputation was a lot more expensive than the first operation and I need to catify, to get him things to climb, explore and give him a better quality of life.

https://www.gofundme.com/bjbwk-help-for-xander

If any of you are on social media (Facebook or Twitter) and could share the link I would be very grateful. I don't have Facebook and very few Twitter followers.

Thank you all.

He will probably need some help at first, like benches and steps and things he likes moved to the floor, but he will eventually make his own way. My friend had a cat who was born without hind legs, and Stubby was amazing at getting everywhere he wanted to be. It was fascinating to see him scoot across the floor really fast and propel himself up to the side of the bed, where he would cling for a minute before hauling himself up the bedding to get on top. Animals do adapt in their own way; I'm sure in time you will be impressed with your little boy's ability to figure things out. Kitties is smart :)

>205 Darth-Heather: Your friend's cat sounds amazing. One smart kitty :)

That's the kind of things the vet suggested. Cats are adaptable, it is just heartbreaking to see him behaving the way he is. So I'm sure that he will adapt but I feel the need to do something to help him. Since the couple of times I mentioned earlier he hasn't even tried to get above floor level and I think some kind of step, bench, shelving system would encourage him to move upwards. I'm also thinking about getting one of those multi-level cat trees, something to keep him entertained with a relaxing place as well. Anything to stop him hiding under my bed!

He'll get there, give him time. You'll be surprised at how fully he recovers and how easily he moves around. It's been a lot for a cat and he's just taking the time he needs when he's under the bed. If it wasn't a favorite place of his before, he'll abandon it soon enough on his own.

And my cat who had been in an accident? He unwired his own jaw to get back to his kibble. He wasn't a fan of being fed nutritive paste from a tube. Cats are not known for patiently waiting for the vet appointment.

>207 RidgewayGirl: I know it will take time. Unfortunately his favourite places before the accident were all up high or outside. Lexa used to spend time under the bed occassionally but it wasn't somewhere that Xander ever went before.

Unwiring his own jaw! wow that is some feat, I hope he recovered well.

I did put an upturned basket next to the bed to give him a step and both cats have sat on it. It is between the bed and the chest of drawers and, at one point, I thought he was going to try for the chest but he didn't and I couldn't enourage him onto the bed. It is probably not the most stable thing but was the only thing I have in the house that might work.

This morning Lexa jumped on him as soon as he came out of his carrier; so he scurried back under the bed without having any food.

This reminds me that I once read an interesting autobiography from a vet whose specialty was house calls for cats among the well to do New Yorkers of the mid 20th century. It was entitled All of my Patients are Under the Bed, because that’s where distressed cats tend to go!

>209 anna_in_pdx: That sounds like an interesting book, though I have stopped reading autobiographies for some reason.

Xander is still refusing to come out from under the bed. I took him through to the food bowls and he just ran back. So, to see if he was hungry, I put the bowl under the bed with him and he ate.

I just wish I knew why he is suddenly scared of that place. I'm beginning to think it might have something to do with Lexa - he seems very aware of where she is and I think she might have pounced on him.

I might need to try and keep them separate for feeding times at least. I would normally just leave him hoping that he will come out when he gets hungry but this has been going on for the last two or three days.

In good news there haven't been any litter box accidents, so I think he might be getting his balance back.

Thank you to everone who has donated to the Gofundme.

Today's update (with pictures)

He is still hiding in his carrier when I get up in the morning, at least this time he wasn't right at the back



and Lexa is wanting to play



So he headed for the bedroom again

Sorry this is even darker than most of the photos but at least I managed to get a picture of him standing up.

Some time after he went under the bed I coaxed him out for some strokes and scritches, it was good to hear him purring.

He still isn't climbing but he was more relaxed when I got him onto the bed and didn't jump straight off this time.

He will work this out in his own time. The thought processes of cats will always be something of a mystery.

When I first adopted Reuben and Cherise, they were rescues from a hoarding home that had 40 other cats. They had little familiarity with people, so it took them a long time to get accustomed to their new home with no other pets. They lived under the couch for six months. They would let us reach under and pat them, but would not come out in the open until we were in bed or away. Then suddenly one day, they did.

You have the more difficult role - the heartbreak of watching Xander struggle to adapt to his new skill set. It won't worry him as much as it will you :) Ah, the life of a Cat Mom!

>213 calm: I know that I am probably worrying too much at the moment. He needs time to adapt and he did look a bit happier earlier today and he was very responsive when I was stroking him.

Brief update

Xander is still spending most of his time hiding, he really does not like being in the open. Not even to eat, unless it is dark outside which seems a bit strange. So I am feeding him under my bed for now as he takes a couple of mouthfuls in the kitchen and then bolts for cover.

His balance is a lot better, he can move faster then I can!

I'm not too happy that he still isn't getting off the floor but I hope he will regain his confidence soon.

poor Xander. He still feels vulnerable. It's good that you have a place where he feels safe, in his 'cave'. He will regain his confidence when he fully accepts that he CAN still move fast. Will he play with cat toys? Maybe just wiggling something fun under the bed for him will remind him that he is a fierce and tough kitty. :)

I'm trying to give him time and space and not pushing him to do more than he wants.

He's not playing ... yet. I don't have many cat toys as they seemed happy with the ones that I have and playing with each other.

His favourite game before the accident was to chase a small ball that I threw or rolled for him to catch but he doesn't seem interested at the moment. I've also tried dangling a toy mouse by its tail in front of him, but he didn't react. He used to jump to get those out of my hand.

Of course Lexa still loves playing and every time I try with Xander she jumps in, even when I think she is out or in a different room. I've tried playing with her in the kitchen until she loses interest before trying with Xander and if I shut her out of the bedroom she cries and scratches the door.

Next time I'm out I'll find them a new toy or two, including a dangly fishing pole one that I can wiggle under the bed, or wherever he is hiding.

Poor chap! And poor you - I can see you must be worried. But remember that it's still very early days. He has a major change to adjust to.

>217 Zambaco: Thank you. I am trying to be more relaxed about his progress, I would just like to see a sign that he will stop being so scared. I guess that those failed attempts at getting higher up last week affected him more than I thought they had.

I went to the local village and a shop there had some cat toys, so I bought a couple - a furry mouse and another thing with a sisal body. He didn't move much but Xander played with the sisal one and chewed the mouse's tail. I managed to get him to wriggle a little bit and he was purring ... until Lexa came in.

I'll try again later and maybe I'll be able to coax him out from under the bed.

>219 calm: That sounds great!

>222 lilithcat: It was nice to see him a bit more animated :) I still haven't managed to get him out from under the bed but he did pop his head out once.

I left the toy he liked on the step next to the bed and he hooked it off with his paw and took it back under the bed. At one point when I looked he was asleep with it under his head.

There was a bit more progress when Lexa joined him under the bed he put out his paw and touched her. Not quite playing yet but it is a start.

I think next time I'm in the village I'll have to see if they have any left - just in case he destroys this one.

>221 calm:

At one point when I looked he was asleep with it under his head.

It's so cute when they do that!

Lexa joined him under the bed he put out his paw and touched her.

That must be such a relief to you. I'm glad he seems to be getting over his reluctance to be around her.

>221 calm: I left the toy he liked on the step next to the bed and he hooked it off with his paw and took it back under the bed. At one point when I looked he was asleep with it under his head.

Awwwww

>222 lilithcat: It is cute :) I was relieved that he didn't freeze or cower away from Lexa.

>223 LibraryCin: Awwwww indeed :)

I just took a quick look and how he is cuddling his new toy.

I'm glad the cat likes his new toy. I'm hoping to get my boys a new toy or two this week--not that they really need any more. I picked up a few of their toys to bring on the trip, but I'm always on the lookout for something different and interesting I think they'll enjoy. Tourist places sometimes stock those!

>225 thornton37814: I hope you find something your boys will like. I'm definitely going to find more when I go to town where there is a pet shop. I was quite surprised to find these in the local shop, it is not very big, but it does random end of aisle £1 items and sometimes those include pet toys.



Xander with his new toys. He is still under the bed but only just :)



A bit of Lexa in the background

Aw! What a fluff ball. He seems better. I bet when he feels more sure of his abilities to get around he will start living out in the open again!

>227 anna_in_pdx: He is a fluff ball :) He can certainly move from one hiding place to another very quickly, I'm sure he will get more confident in time.

Until today there wasn't any real change in Xander's behaviour.

I did buy a cat tree and he likes being in the bottom section, especially at night. Lexa likes using the top platform so it works for both of them.

He is still spending most of his time during the day hiding under the bed but while I was in the kitchen earlier he followed me and I thought he wanted some food but he was looking at the door. So I opened it and he went outside, only for a few seconds, then he bolted back into the house but it is a start.

Yay, he must be feeling better. Thanks for the update, I was wondering how he’s doing.

>230 anna_in_pdx: Sorry not to have updated sooner, but there wasn't anything to say. He was still behaving the same way and I was beginning to wonder if he was going to spend the rest of his life hiding.

So I have been bit down and haven't felt like saying anything. It is the little things like him not wanting to be cuddled or groomed; only wanting to eat when he is under the bed unless it is dark outside; only playing if I put the toys close enough for him to reach by stretching out a paw that were depressing.

But I've got to remind myself that it hasn't been that long (only a month since the amputation) and that he will start doing more when he feels like it. Today was progress and it helped me be a bit more positive.

Delighted to hear this. I know how worrying it is when cats are unwell and not behaving like their usual selves. But this sounds like progress to me.

>232 Zambaco: Thanks I think it is progress as well. He is also sitting up more now though I would like to see him moving more.

He asked to go out again this morning but just as I opened the door a heavy vehicle passed the house and he was straight back under the bed. He does look at the window I have open to let Lexa out but it is a big jump (about three feet inside and three and a half outside ) and, as he doesn't even get onto the bed yet, I don't think he is going out that way anytime soon.

I'll try again later.

>233 calm: Glad to hear he's at least considering activity once more. Cats can take lots more time to adjust/readjust than we might like. It's a whole different situation, but when my cats started fighting with each other (long story), it took months (about 5 total, I think) to repair their relationship.

This may be something you've already considered or tried, but I haven't seen it mentioned up-thread, so thought I'd throw it out there—have you tried getting some pet stairs for him to use to get onto bed/couch/etc. while he recovers? One of my girls just isn't very good at jumping, and I have a very high bed, so the pet stairs I bought have been a great help to her.

>234 lorannen: He has been out from under the bed a bit more today and has been quite playful but he didn't make it outdoors.

I have put a step by the bed, which I have seen him on once but he went down again rather than up :(

Thanks for the suggestion, I am slowly trying to get more things to encourage him off the floor so I will research pet stairs and see if I can get some locally or at least something similar.

>235 calm: It took my cat some tempting to get her to start using the stairs (instead of hopping onto my nightstand and knocking everything on the floor, as was her wont), but treats helped. This is the type I got, which I like, because they fold up when not in use.

They do look nice, maybe a bit large for my bedroom, unless I take some things out. I also don't know if that brand is available in the UK.

I had been looking at ottomans, benches and step stools. Or something like this to replace one of my bedroom bookcases (the one he liked sleeping on before the accident)

I got this for one cat with mobility issues, and he took to it quite readily:

Frisco Lightweight Pet Stairs

How is Mr. Xander doing with his recuperation?

Finally some progress. Today Xander is out from under the bed - running around; play fighting with Lexa; tipping over the waste paper basket; attacking my shoes and generally causing mayhem :) He has also been up to the second step by the bed but no further.

He also looks up as Lexa gets up onto the furniture or windowsills. Maybe he will try to follow her if he gets more confident.

I did open the door at one point and, instead of bolting out of the kitchen, he took a step outside but it has been raining heavily so it wasn't a good day to go out.

It is so good to see him being active and I hope it is just the start of him being a more playful cat again.

Edit I forgot to say that they just had their second birthday a couple of days ago. I didn't get them anything though as I am still paying off the vets bill:(

So I am posting the gofundme link again. Thanks to everyone who has donated so far

https://www.gofundme.com/bjbwk-help-for-xander

If any of you are on social media (Facebook or Twitter) and could share the link I would be very grateful. I don't have Facebook and very few Twitter followers.

That is great news! Glad to hear he is perking up.

I'm so glad that Xander is making the adjustment.

>241 anna_in_pdx: and >242 RidgewayGirl: Thank you

It is good to see him running around and playing with his sister. At one point he even chased a ball.

Great job Xander!

>244 Narilka: Thank you.

Last night he actually climbed up and joined me on the bed then curled up in his old place next to my side:)

He is a bit quieter today, though he wasn't in his cat igloo when I got up but waiting by the door to the hallway. He did climb onto a cardboard box I have in one corner of the room. He also came up onto the bed but jumped straight off again.

It sounds like Xander is finding his new stride. Cats are the very definition of resilient, they just do everything in their own sweet time.

Xander is adapting slowly. He is using the steps I cobbled together from boxes to get up on the bed more frequently. I still need to feed him under the bed sometimes as he doesn't always want to be in the open. He is still very cautious and often ends up hiding, especially when there is any sound outside.

Still no attempts at jumping up but he gets quite a distance when he jumps down off the bed. So he definitely seems to be getting stronger and I hope he will get his confidence back.

My timid cat (Apollo) finally ventured out on to our new "catio" last night (his more intrepid pal Buzz has been spending time there for a week!), and then would not come inside so I could shut the window for the night! I had to go outside and look at him from there, scaring him back into the house!

I am glad that Xander is slowly getting his mojo back!

>248 anna_in_pdx: - a catio sounds like a great thing to have. I remember when my two first started going out how tricky it was to get them in for the night.

I'm glad as well. He is eating in the kitchen more frequently and yesterday he scrambled up over the foot of the bed. It looked a bit ungainly but at least he managed it :) So he is getting a bit stronger and more active.

Thanks for the Xander update. Sounds like progress is slow and steady.

>249 calm: Glad to hear he is improving. He is probably still confused about that leg that won't do what he wants it to do.

Gracie used to rock back and forth trying to get her missing front leg to go forward. Finally she figured out what to do instead.

So long since I up-dated, sorry.

Xander still can't jump up onto the furniture but, apart from that, he seems to be a healthy happy cat. He is back to his old self, character wise. He can get around very quickly and loves being outside again. I managed to create a ramp using a log up to a windowsill and he can get himself in and out. I'm not giving him very long out there - about an hour a day at most as I am still unsure about him being completely unsupervised but I am watching out of the window instead of going out with him now. He hasn't shown any sign of wanting to go anywhere near the road. So things are going well.

I am very thankful for all the support that this group gave me after the accident. Thank you

>252 calm: So happy to hear of Xander's progress.

>252 calm:

I know you are not in the States, but tomorrow here is Thanksgiving, and you definitely have something for which to give thanks.

It’s great to here that Xander is doing well.

>252 calm: Glad to hear he is doing so well!

>252 calm: Thanks for the update! It's great to hear Xander is doing well. Cats are so resilient.

>252 calm: What a great report! So glad things are going well. Best wishes to all 3 of you!

>253 Taphophile13: Thank you, I think he is making good progress.

>254 lilithcat: Definitely something to be thankful for:)

>255 NorthernStar: Thank you, he does seem to be doing well

>256 Narilka: I'm pleased that cats are resilient.

>257 krazy4katz: Thank you for including us all. Lexa seems to enjoy having her playful brother back. They have been playing chase and ambush today.