A nine-week-old kitten named Lucy is recovering under the care of staff at the BC SPCA’s Victoria animal centre after a severe viral infection nearly cost her an eye.
Lucy was one of eight kittens surrendered to the SPCA on September 23rd after their owner in Victoria became overwhelmed with too many animals to care for.
The litter was born by accident and all of them arrived with health problems.
“They were all infected with the feline herpesvirus and a parasite called coccidia, but Lucy’s case was the most severe,” explained Emma Hamill, who manages the Victoria animal centre.
“One of her eyes was seriously affected by the virus, and at first we weren’t sure if it could be saved.”
Lucy has been receiving antiviral medication, antibiotics, parasite control and eye drops.
Hamill said veterinarians are monitoring her progress closely.
“At her most recent follow-up appointment, the veterinary team was happy with how her eye is responding,” she said. “At this stage, it looks like she won’t need surgery.”
Lucy is quarantined with two of her siblings, Piper and Rich, who are undergoing similar treatment. Piper’s eye condition is almost as serious as Lucy’s, while Rich is in better health. The remaining kittens are being cared for in another area of the centre.
Hamill said the three kittens spend most of their time together and are gradually becoming more active as they recover.
“They’re starting to play again and are very tolerant of their treatment,” she said.
To help cover medical costs, Petsecure Pet Health Insurance has offered to match all donations up to $3,000 to support Lucy, her siblings, and other animals in the BC SPCA’s care.
