Caring for an injured kitty

Sudhersena
If your cat is injured, do not panic. Here are a few tips to make vet trip easier.
Blackie was rescued with his right front paw severed and his left front leg partly bent. His bent foreleg was rubbing against the surface and was constantly bleeding. Fortunately, Blackie was in good health. It was decided to fix an external fixator to his bent foreleg so that he could scamper along. The day came when the surgery was done and the external fixator was attached. Blackie, as usual, put up his best behaviour and never once did he complain. After a few days, the wound healed and he is now able to walk more comfortably.
Cats are vulnerable to accidents and injuries, but fortunately,  cats bounce back and overcome their disabilities. Pet parents get terrified when their cats are injured and sadly, sometimes abandon them. But there is no reason for despair. Cats can survive very well with disabilities. If the right treatment and proper post-operative care is given, your cat will recover fast and be on his feet in no time. Here are a few tips to follow if your cat is injured.

• If your cat is injured, he can be aggressive. So, handle him carefully.
• Gently handle him to see where he is injured and how much damage is there.
• Call your vet before you make a move to the clinic so that things are ready if it is an emergency.
• Use a splint or a bandage if required.
• Wrap your cat in a towel so that you can easily handle him and he does not bite you.
• Carry your cat in a pet carrier to the vet’s clinic.

Please remember a safe cat is a happy cat.
(Sudhersena is volunteer at the Blue Cross since 1998 and an avid animal lover, pet parent of nine cats and three dogs. She is associated with a number of animal welfare campaigns and programmes.)
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