Atwood is a one year old short hair Scottish straight, who presented to Lort Smith with breathing difficulty.

“She was also over-grooming, off her food and not behaving like herself,” said her concerned carer Catherine.

Lort Smith carried out a variety of tests including; blood tests, chest x-rays, cardiac ultrasound, fluid analysis and culture, and cytology of the skin.

Atwood was diagnosed with pyothorax – the presence of inflammatory fluid or pus within the chest cavity (the area between the lungs and the inner walls of the ribs). Pyothorax is generally caused by a bacterial infection and is life-threatening.

In addition to this, Atwood was anaemic and had developed skin lesions from over-grooming. This was possibly caused by an allergy to flea treatments or diet.

Atwood’s prognosis was poor but Lort Smith was determined to do everything possible for this much-loved cat.

Atwood received around-the-clock care in our Intensive Care Unit and was placed in an oxygen crib. A drain was placed in her chest cavity to remove the fluid and puss. She was given antibiotics and pain relief, and was syringe fed by our dedicated vet nurses.

As days passed, Atwood’s chest continued to drain slowly and she began to eat on her own. She became feistier which showed she was regaining strength and catittude!

All up, Atwood spent eight days at Lort Smith before vets felt comfortable that she was out of the woods. She was allowed to go home with oral medications, and wearing a cone of shame, to her very relieved and doting family.

Atwood survived because her carer was observant and knew she was behaving out of the ordinary. If you have concerns about your pet’s health – don’t hesitate to call Lort Smith on 9328 3021 or refer to our Need Help Now section for quick reference in the event of an emergency or potential health risk for your pet.

“We are so lucky to have such dedicated and skilled vets and nurses at Lort Smith as well as the amazing facilities there. Without the medical care and loving attention she received, including a procedure late on a Saturday night, Atwood wouldn’t have celebrated her first birthday this week – we will always be so grateful to everyone who looked after her and all the other animals for whom they care!” said Catherine.

Atwood is as happy as a clam to be back with her family and intends on making the most of her remaining eight lives!