Rusty’s Story: Living rough and needing urgent dental care

Hello, my name is Rusty.

I’m a ginger male stray cat who has been living rough in the neighbourhood for almost three years.

I’m not really what you would call a domesticated cat... I don’t curl up on the couch, I don’t like being picked up, and I’m still very unsure about humans. I have spent a lot of my life looking after myself, finding places to sleep, hiding under houses, and trying to stay safe.

Some kind humans started feeding me. They tried to find out if I had an owner, but they had no success. Eventually, they became my caregivers from a distance, even though I still live life outdoors on my own terms. They have already helped me (although I was scared being trapped) by getting me desexed and microchipped. That means I won’t be adding to the stray cat population, and I have identification if I ever get lost.

But now I have another problem. My teeth are sore, some are broken, and I need dental surgery.

Apparently, I need a dental clean and polish, and at least two teeth will need to be removed. Once I am under anaesthetic, the vet may find that more work is needed.

Dental problems are painful for cats, even if we try to hide it. For a cat like me, who still lives rough and depends on being able to eat properly, sore teeth can make life even harder.

My caregivers are continuing to leave food out for me, but my dental surgery is the urgent cost they need help with.

I may never be an indoor, house cat. But I am still a life that matters.

Thank you for helping me.

Love,

Rusty