In late February, Shea, a 10-month-old domestic short haired cat, fell from a high-rise building in Manhattan,New York, and suffered life-changing injuries. Luckily, he was found on the street by a passerby who knew that he had to help the injured animal and brought him to the ASPCA Animal Hospital in NYC.
Source: ASPCA
Sadly, these types of injuries are all too common for cat owners, and the term high rise syndrome was coined to describe this phenomenon of felines falling from high rise buildings.Shea suffered multiple injuries including, a split palate, broken lower jaw and hind leg fracture, along with a head injury that staff treated immediately with fluids and a feeding tube. The cat seemed determined to recover andalready by the next day showed signs of improvement and had gotten a lot stronger.However, his back leg continued to cause him pain and didn't look like it was going to heal, so veterinariansdecided that amputation would be best, and they were proven right. Dr. Delfino, the veterinarian that worked on Shea described:
He bounced back, used the litter box and ate well. It didn’t take him long to adjust to three legs.
Source: ASPCA
As soon as Shea was strong enough to leave the hospital, he was transferred to theASPCA Adoption Centerwhere he was put up for adoption and a short while later in March, he caught the eye ofMiranda Jackson, a young dancer living in Manhattan.She was charmed by the unique cat who refused to let his three legs get him down and knew that he was the cat for her. Jackson brought her new companion home and renamed the feline 'Ichiro.'
Source: ASPCA
She describes how the resilient cat has embraced his new life and quickly adapted to his home to the ASPCA:
He couldn't jump on my bed, but he worked hard and now jumps as high as the kitchen counter.
Shea doesn't let his injuries slow him down and is continuing to live his life to the full in how wonderful forever home. High rise syndrome is extremely frequent in cats and can result in fatal or life changing injuries.In order to avoid this, feline owners should be sure to place screens over any windows where theirpet frequently spends time, ensure that all windows are properly sealed, and stay vigilant when the animal is sitting near a window or balcony.
Source: PetsWelcome
To support the ASPCA and the amazing work they do, you can make a donation by clicking here.
* * *
At Holidog, we aim to improve the lives of your furry friends. Enjoy your holidays with peace of mind, knowing your pet is in great hands (find a petsitter near you) and spoil them with our monthly subscription box filled with yummy treats and toys (get your free box here). You can count on us!
