Donations needed after suspected animal abuse case

Badly beaten and in grave condition. It’s hard to believe that just one week ago, Skitter B the cat suffered horrific injuries that left this active and friendly feline for dead.

“He was extremely dehydrated, his back end was covered in blood and urine and he was unable to pee, so his bladder was extended to the size of a soft ball,” says Dr. Ken Gummeson, Aberdeen Veterinary Hospital.

Badly bruised between his legs and on his belly, it’s suspected Skitter B was the victim of serious abuse. X-rays revealed two fractures in the cat’s spine, leaving him unable to lift his tail or urinate on his own.

“Exactly how that injury happened we’ll never know for sure, it would be consistant with somebody holding his tail and maybe kicking him or something like that, so very distinct possiblity that this is a case of animal abuse, and the tail was broken from that trauma.”

Last Tuesday, Skitter B was brought into the Kamloops SPCA by a local resident who had been looking out for the stray neighbourhood animal. The good samaritan didn’t see the cat for a few days and when he surfaced, it was clear he needed immediate attention. Skitter B, who is no more than 1 years old, has a catheter and is being treated with antibiotics at the Aberdeen Veterinary Hospital. But his medical bills and follow ups come with a price, and the SPCA is seeking donations to help cover the costs.

“It’s kind of touch and go right now, our best guess is probably about $1000 to $1200 just because of the length of time he’s going to require to recover,” says Sarah Gerow, Kamloops SPCA

“He does seem to be getting a little bit of tension, when I lift my finger up he can push against me a little bit, but the tail is limp and fractures are here and here, at the base of his tail,” says Dr. Gummeson.

It could take up to a month for any nerve damage to Skitter B’s tail and bladder to fully repair. For now, he’ll remain at the Aberdeen Veterinary Hospital, where he’s receiving the love and care he needs, and recovering to get ready for a second start in his young life.

“He’s a very very nice kitty, he’s very affectionate, very loving, he still needs to be neutered which we hope to do in the near future, if he gets his bladder function back, which could take up to a month before we’ll know for sure, then he’ll make a fine pet after that.”

The SPCA is seeking donations to help cover medical costs. If you’re able to help you can donate in person at the shelter, or call the office at 250-376-7722

by Tanya Cronin

Donations needed after suspected animal abuse case

WATCH: Full story by Reporter Tanya Cronin

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