Tuxedo Gets Emergency Care for Serious Bladder Stones

Tuxedo, a very distinguished seven-year-old black and white cat, was recently diagnosed with two bladder stones. The vet prescribed antibiotics and pain medication and recommended emergency surgery called a cystotomy to remove the stones. 

But, Tuxedo’s mom, Stephanie, who’s had him since he was a kitten and describes him as her "best friend," couldn’t afford the critical treatment he needed. So, she reached out to Phinney’s, and we were able to cover the cost of the surgery and his pre-surgical work-up through our Emergency Fund, which Stephanie, who lives on a fixed income, would not have been able to pay for.

Following Tuxedo’s surgery, he needed a shot of antibiotics, which cleared up a post-op infection he developed. When describing what Phinney’s help meant to Stephanie, she said that Tuxedo is doing AWESOME. “You gave me my baby back and a peace in my heart. Thank you all again," she added.

The Lowdown on Bladder Stones

Bladder stones are formed from mineral deposits (or crystals) that can irritate the lining of a cat’s urethra and hinder their ability to pass urine or result in a complete obstruction (blockage) of the flow of urine, quickly becoming a life-threatening condition.

Fortunately for Tuxedo, the vet was able to diagnose his bladder stones quickly, and because with Phinney’s help, he was swiftly treated for this serious condition. We’ll so happy to know that Tuxedo’s bladder stones, which can also cause frequent and painful urination, is doing so well. We think that is simply PAWSOME since one of the hallmarks of Phinney’s Emergency Fund is to be able to restore a pet to health and resolve painful conditions by addressing one-time vet bills like this.

To learn more about our Emergency and other funds, please visit phinneys.org/about-us.