4/10/23 – He showed up, fortunately, on a very kind family’s patio. Chong’s leg was bloody and some of the skin had been torn off (the photo shown is the least graphic for posting). The homeowner immediately took him to a veterinary hospital where he was found FIV/FelV negative but the doctor recommended amputating the leg at a very high cost. That is when we were contacted by the finder and, shortly after, by rescue group who we’ve worked with on many occasions. Chong was taken to the rescue group’s veterinary partner and we were asked to help. Chong’s injury was called an avulsion or degloving. “The condition can be as dramatic and life-threatening as severe burns. It happens when a large section of skin is forcibly removed. It is an injury that severs blood vessels and nerves and damages underlying structures. Degloving injuries are most prevalent on the tail or limbs of cats but can also happen on the trunk or face.”
Chong went through surgery which was covered by 4 Paws 1 Heart. He remained in the hospital for quite a few days. When he finally was released, he wound up back at the vet; this went on a few times. Finally, Chong was ready to have his stitches out but when he returned to the hospital for removal of his stitches it was discovered that his skin had opened up again. This was on March 22. The doctor recommended stapling the skin and scheduled another appointment for 2 weeks later. The doctor, though, was pleased with the healing progress and felt he could return in two weeks for a final visit. As of today, Chong is doing well and has an appointment April 22 for his neuter. This little guy has gone through heck (as has his rescuer) but the rescue family loves him and after all of his care, will be making him a permanent member of their home.
This is the time of the year when we are faced with severe injuries and illnesses. We are just thankful beyond words that we have so many generous individuals and businesses who continue to make a difference. – diana.
4paws1heart.org/donations P.O. Box 84, St. Clair Shores, MI. 48080
