03/29/2024

Wales News Online

Local & National News for Wales

Clwyd and Colwyn branch of RSPCA help kitten fighting meningitis

A kitten – who came into the care of RSPCA Clwyd and Colwyn branch – is responding well to treatment after being diagnosed with meningitis.

Black and white cat Lucy from Denbighshire, came into the care of the branch when she was just five weeks old. Sadly her owner wasn’t able to care for her due to a flea infestation and signed her over to the branch to be looked after until she would be ready for a new home.

But poor Lucy unfortunately became quite unwell and is now receiving treatment for meningitis – which is costing the branch hundreds of pounds.

Kieren Barlow, Branch Manager for RSPCA Clwyd and Colwyn, said: “Lucy is such an adorable little cat and was placed with one of our amazing foster careers.

“When Lucy – who was appearing healthy – came of age and was a desired weight she was spayed. Unfortunately after the operation – which went well – she took a turn for the worse with the vet putting her on fluids and medication. It was then discovered following further testing that she had meningitis.

“We’re not sure how long the disease had been with her but Lucy then became very poorly and the swelling in her brain caused her temporary rear paralysation and she stopped eating and drinking which was extremely concerning.”

Luckily Lucy received all the veterinary care she needed from the branch via their veterinary clinic in Rhyl on Vaughan Street and is now on the mend.

Claire Darbey, animal care assistant at the Rhyl Clinic, said: “She is still a bit wobbly and uncoordinated and treatment is currently ongoing. She’s on antibiotics, medication and will receive physiotherapy at the Rhyl Clinic. We’re pleased to say that she is responding to treatment and is doing well.

“We’re not sure how long the treatment will be needed for – but our vet has said that it can take up to four weeks for her symptoms to go as the swelling of the brain comes down.”

In the meantime Lucy is still being cared for by one of the branch’s dedicated foster carers.

“We are very fortunate to have such amazing and committed foster carers, who really step up for animals in need,” said Keiran.

“We also have a wonderful community who care deeply about animal welfare in our area and would like to thank everyone for their support and we would of course love to hear from anyone who can help us further.

“Lucy’s treatment is likely to cost hundreds of pounds so if anyone would be able to help us fund this we’d very much appreciate it. If anyone would like to contribute, donations can be sent via Paypal to donations@rspca-clwydandcolwyn.org.uk. We now look forward to the day when she can go to her forever home.”

The branch has a network of volunteer cat fosterers – but is always on the lookout for more! Fosterers are provided with the cat food, litter and vet bills which are provided for from branch funds. To express an interest please contact the Rhyl Clinic on 01745 355798 for a volunteer application form.

To contact RSPCA Clwyd and Colwyn branch you can visit the branch’s website or keep an eye on the branch’s Facebook page. The Rhyl Clinic can be contacted on 01745 355798 or you can email the branch via admin@rspca-clwydandcolwyn.org.uk.

RSPCA branches are self-funding and raise money locally to support the animal welfare work they do.

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