The Lort Smith team first met ten-month-old tabby Ryan in April, when he was brought in with a very sore leg. He was a cat who loved the outdoors, especially climbing, and his carer suspected he may have fallen from a height while exploring his neighbourhood.
Ryan was in a great deal of pain and wasn't putting weight on his right leg. Our vets' first examinations suggested a fracture, which an X-ray later confirmed.
Unfortunately, because of a sudden change in living circumstances, the domestic shorthair's carer could no longer look after him. So Lort Smith stepped in to give Ryan the serious medical attention he needed to get him back on his paws.
Not letting his surgery define him, he would run and climb around the Adoption Centre like an active teenage cat.
Saving his leg
The vet team met to discuss Ryan's best way forward. Would it be a leg amputation, or could they save his leg?
Luckily, his fracture could be repaired. Ryan's two orthopaedic surgeries were made possible thanks to the dedication of Lort Smith donors. These life-changing procedures made sure Ryan's fracture would be fully repaired, with a permanent pin and plate to keep his leg in tip-top condition.
Ryan recovered in foster care with long-time Lort Smith volunteer Narelle. She cared for Ryan through his rehabilitation, bringing him to vet appointments and keeping him happy with lots of cuddles.
Finally, two months after surgery, Ryan's leg was as good as new. Ready to find a permanent home, Ryan moved into the Adoption Centre.
Not letting his surgery define him, he would run and climb around the Adoption Centre like an active teenage cat.
Of course, it wasn't long before he was adopted into a wonderful new home, where we know he'll be causing as much trouble as he can.