On November 3rd I received a transport plea that 2 cats were needing a rescue ride from a local shelter to Austin Pets Alive! As someone who loves being a transport volunteer, I jump at the chance to give "Freedom Rides" whenever possible. I didn't know anything about the cats I was helping, and I couldn't even see them since they were brought out in cardboard carriers - and for safety I seldom actually peek. Like many volunteers, I enjoy keeping track of where the animals I transport end up & when they get adopted. This is the story of one of those cats I transported that day: Neo.
When he arrived at the APA! Medical Clinic for his first exam, to say he was underweight was an understatement! He weighed 6 lbs, clearly half of his healthy weight. He was reported as having chronic gastrointestinal issues making weight gain difficult. An ultrasound revealed he had free fluid around the left kidney and enlarged lymph nodes. One consideration is that he likely had lymphoma. Luckily a "fospice" foster was already lined up - someone experienced with end of life feline care.
