Help us today: Rescued kitten needs surgery to keep eyesight

In early November we were alerted of the plight of a 4-month old blind kitten at a shelter in San Bernardino who needed help. She was placed at a shelter with a low live release rate and was at risk of euthanasia. At first, multiple people came forward to foster her. The shelter called to inform us that none of the fosters had come to take Ruby by the end of the designated time frame. We rushed down to the shelter to save Ruby before her rescue hold time ran out and she would be euthanized.

We took her to a vet who diagnosed her with malnourishment and cataracts on both eyes. She was unable to get shots because she was half the weight she should have been at that age. She was full of worms, parasites and covered in fleas. Ruby, underweight and very frail, was unable to receive any vaccinations. With constant care and love she slowly gained weight, over 1.3 pounds in just 2 weeks, improving her overall health! Once she was on the road to recovery we scheduled an exam for her eyes and it was confirmed that she is nearly blind.
 
Feline eye specialists explained she has full cataracts in both eyes, and her vision is limited to light and dark shapes, yet her diagnosis is promising. The cause of the cataracts is due to her malnourishment. Even though Ruby is 95% blind in the left eye and 85% blind in the right eye, with care, treatment and surgery she will be able to see again. Left untreated the cataracts, can come loose and detach leading to glaucoma (painful increased intraocular pressure) and then blindness. We will continue to care for Ruby until she has gained weight and is healthy enough to undergo surgery.
 
We have rescued many cats with special needs over the years. If a cat will not suffer and can be treated, we believe in providing these special needs cats with a chance at a forever home. Ruby has already improved exponentially and we are optimistic she will find a forever home. Ruby’s surgery and veterinary care will cost over $6,000. Any donations would be appreciated to help us care for this special and loving cat. You can donate here and interested adopters can contact our organization.

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