I was beginning to feel like a fraud, being here when I don’t actually have a tripawd. I have been calling Leila a semi-tripawd because she doesn’t fully use her leg and gets around on 3 legs. I think I had lulled myself into a little bubble of denial that she is fine and that she could continue like this indefinitely. Unfortunately that’s not the case. I have heard back from my vet, who has consulted with two other specialists. They agree that the best course of action will be to remove the pins from Leila’s leg and see how the bone holds together. There are three possible outcomes from this. Best case scenario, the bone will hold and she will be fine. Alternatively, the bone could collapse immediately and they will amputate during the same surgery. The worst case would be that the bone appears to hold, but later collapses, causing Leila a lot of pain and making it necessary for a second (well, technically it will be her 4th) operation.
So the operation is scheduled for next Monday. Good job I’m not superstitious, I’ve just looked at it will be 13th. We go away this weekend and I wanted to make sure I can be here for her after the surgery. She doesn’t like the drowsy feeling of coming out of aesthetic or sedation. It makes her scared. I think its because she’s not as aware as she usually is and she doesn’t understand what is happening.
I had actually booked her in for this procedure a couple of weeks ago, then changed my mind last minute. My friend suggested I ask for a second opinion and I jumped at the opportunity. That was when I found Tripawds, through Fang’s owners original worried post on a different site, wondering whether to amputate his leg. I followed his story, understanding all of those feelings of worry, of being unsure of what was the right decision for Fang. That lead me here, where I found so many others who have also experienced similar worries, and then relief that all has gone well and their pet is not only coping, but happy with life on three legs.
I’ve had time to think about it, to read the blogs of others and see pictures and videos of happy tripawds enjoying their lives. I know Leila will be fine whatever the outcome. I am so grateful that its an injury rather than cancer or similar which has caused this. I am so sorry for those out there who continue to worry for their furbabies.
Here are Milo and Leila enjoying the sun. Leila can climb up the scratching post using all 4 legs and can get down by herself as well.
Thanks for the update! We look forward to following Leila’s progress.
Smore came to me with a broken leg. I took her to a specialist too to try to fix her leg. I was convinced that amputation was the worst solution. My mom thought euthanasia was better even than amputation.
It’ll be a year July 17th since her amputation. She runs, jumps, and plays. I introduced her to some friends and family who didn’t even realize she was a tripawd until I told them. Leila will do wonderfully.
If you need any support during this, feel free to contact me.
Thank you. I enjoyed reading about Smore. She reminds me of both of my cats combined, Like Leila, she chose her human and like Milo, she is so cheeky looking and playful. I also can’t leave string lying around. Milo eats it. And elastic bands, and hair ties. Despite the injury, Leila is a far easier cat.
You are do i ng a really good job of holding it together! Applause to you for doing your research and being as comfortable as one can possibly be under these circumstances!
Yes, Fang is quite a Legend around here and really paved the way for so many kitties. And cats really do amazing adjusting to three legs.
I love the picture! Clearly two pals just enjoying being in the moment not worrying about a thing! Pretty good role models for how we should all go through life!
Keeping all paws crossed for the best possible outcome for Leila…whatever that may be.
Sending love and hugs
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle too
Thank you. I’ll let everyone know how it goes.
I hope Leila bones holds with0ut the pin. No matter what she will do well. Remember it will be harder on you than her. She won’t remember anything happening and will just get on with life. My cat Mona doesn’t do well with anesthetic recovery either. My vet said sometimes they may hallucinate and Mona kept looking over her shoulder. You all with do great and it will all become a distant memory!
Kerren and Tripawd Mona
Thank you. I hadn’t heard that about hallucinating before! If she is then no wonder she gets scared. I will make sure I have a quiet place for her after surgery and keep an eye on her.