Our UTown cat Hobbes went missing on 21st December. One week went by and there was still no sign of her. The feeders were really worried about her and we tried to spread the message on our social media to get more people to help us find her.
On the 29th, one of the feeders found Hobbes on the rooftop of Foodclique area. She had been stuck there this whole time. We immediately contacted Office of Student Affairs (OSA) and Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) for help. The maintenance crew came with a ladder and attempted to coax her down the roof. But Hobbes panicked at the sight of the ladder and jumped down from the roof. When we rushed down to check, she had already run off. After that she disappeared for a few days again.
Hobbes stuck on the roof
The next time Hobbes was spotted, we noticed she might have broken her right hind leg. So we decided to bring her to the vet. After the incident Hobbes was more alert and very easily startled. Even the feeders she was very familiar with couldn’t get close. After a few unsuccessful attempts, we finally trapped Hobbes and took her to Gentle Oak Veterinary Clinic.
Finally put her into the carrier
Hobbes got her X-Rays taken and was given pain relief injections. A few choices were presented to us regarding her broken leg, including amputation and orthopaedic surgery. Hobbes’ feeders were very concerned when they heard there’s a possibility for amputation. Many of them made donations to help cover Hobbes’ vet bills. We were deeply touched by their kind and generous acts and would like to thank everyone for their contribution!
Gentle Oak referred Hobbes to a vet at The Animal Clinic for consultation. The vet observed Hobbes’ movement and came to the conclusion that the best option is to leave her to recover on her own. Because Hobbes is still young, the loss of a limb or going through orthopaedic surgery would be very traumatic to her. Hobbes’ recovery rate was good and if kept at home, her broken bones would be able to rebuild and join back together. Full recovery will take about one year, after which she will be able to do outdoor activities normally. She will be able to run, jump and hop just like any other cat, only with a limp.
Hobbes' X-Ray
But before Hobbes can be released, she needs a few weeks of foster care and stay inside a cage. This is to prevent her from jumping which would slow down the recovery or cause injury again. Our Cat Welfare Director Lisa kindly offered to foster Hobbes and monitor her situation. Now Hobbes is doing very well in Lisa’s house and has been eating a lot. Lisa takes her for walks around the room to examine the movement and recovery rate.
Hobbes settling in well in Lisa's house
Looking good!
Let’s hope Hobbes will fully recover soon and run around UTown again!