We recently received an urgent plea for help about a pregnant neighborhood cat seen dragging her broken, lacerated legs through the streets of Newark. We could not turn away. We had to help.
We immediately rushed Goldie to our emergency vet where they quickly placed an IV catheter and started supportive care. After X-rays and exam, we learned a few things. Some were unexpected…Goldie was not pregnant. The swelling from her injuries on her extremely thin and frail frame had caused this confusion. This was good news, as it would make Goldie’s treatment less complicated.
We learned that both of Goldie’s hind legs and toes had suffered multiple fractures, and one leg was completely shattered and beyond repair. We quickly agreed to amputate this leg, and surgically repair the other, giving Goldie the best chance for mobility and quality of life.
We also learned that Goldie is FIV positive, a reality for so many cats who live on the streets, and dangerously anemic. Goldie needed a blood transfusion before surgery and the doctors said she would not have lasted much longer on the street.
We were thrilled when doctors reported that Goldie’s surgery was a success. Within hours of her surgery, this brave, affectionate, resilient girl was purring, eating and using her litter box. ..but that’s not all.
Goldie was released from the hospital and went to her amazing foster, where she felt instantly at home and at peace. Goldie showed her appreciation with head butts, purrs, requests for belly rubs, and even climbed into our laps. 
