Winston

Winston is a large adult male tom cat that NASAP took in from our partner pound on New Year's Eve 2011. Poor Winston has been living on the streets of Beaumont for at least a year where he was being fed by a local woman. Recently in dealing with animal control about another issue, she mentioned Winston's situation. The animal control officer convinced her to take him to the pound so that he could receive some badly needed medical attention for an abcess and be evaluated for NASAP intake. Winston is a young cat, approximately 2 years old, but he already bears several permanent scars from his time outside. His ears are the first casualty. They are now permanently damaged and deformed; a condition called cauliflower ear. His ear canals are almost closed and he will be susceptible to infections for the rest of his life. He will require ongoing treatment drops and monitoring to make sure that his ears are healthy and not bothering him. His teeth are his second problem. Winston has at least two damaged teeth that the vet believes are dead and these will have to be removed. Hence, Winston will be requiring expensive dental surgery in the near future. Finally and worst of all, Winston has tested positive for the Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV). This contagious feline virus will eventually affect Winston's immune system. He will require a strictly indoor only home with no other unaffected cats for the rest of his life. He will also require regular checkups and supportive care to help him fight this disease. Because of all these health issues, if a suitable forever home cannot be found, Winston will remain as a permanent care ward within NASAP's foster care system. We would deeply appreciate targeted donations towards Winston's care (email cats@nasap.ca to find out how to donate to Winston; TAX RECEIPTS PROVIDED FOR ALL DONATIONS $20 AND HIGHER). He is a friendly and docile cat that appreciates the little things in life like tummy rubs and a full bowl of food. He real ly deserves a better life than he has experienced so far. Please help us give Winston a happy and healthy 2012!

UPDATE 18-Jan-12: Winston had his neuter and dental surgeries today at Calgary Trail Pet Hospital.  Everything went very well and they extracted two canine teeth, as originally planned. Winston has been given a long-acting antibiotic injection and will be placed on a dental diet from now on. All the treatments have definitely helped this sweet and gentle cat to feel better. 

UPDATE 11-Feb-12: Unfortunately Winston is facing yet another major challenge. He has some type of large growth deep in his ear. It is not clear yet whether this is a cancerous or benign tumour. NASAP is investigating all potential options for his treatment with his vet at Calgary Trail Pet Hospital. Watch this space for updates. It has been decided that because of all Winston's health issues that he will remain in NASAP's care for the rest of his life. We really want to make sure that he is comfortable and happy for as long as possible.

UPDATE 19-Feb-12: After a round of steroids, the growth in Winston's ear has shrunk to the point where his vet now feels comfortable enough to attempt a biopsy and removal (if possible). Surgery will be attempted on 27-Feb-12. The need for financial donations toward Winston's care is ongoing and we sincerely thank everyone who has donated so far. Your kindness is very much appreciated!!

UPDATE 3-Mar-12: The vet removed what she felt was a polyp (possibly related to his FIV positive status) from Winston's ear on 27-Feb-12. Luckily she feels that the entire growth was removed so hopefully it will not come back. Winston is now recovering happily in his foster home.