Getting A Second Opinion Could Save A Life

For #WiseWednesday, here’s a story that highlights the dangers of intestinal blockages and the importance of considering a second opinion. Luckily, it’s a happy ending!

Futaba was rescued by our reliable TNR partner and fosterer, Yukiko Matsui, as a skinny kitten. It soon became clear that she wasn’t getting any better. Her first vet suggested fluids and force-feeding until she was strong enough to eat on her own, but Futaba could not keep any of the food down and her condition worsened. JCN suggested getting a second opinion.

The second vet immediately suspected a blockage, and she was rushed to surgery. Inside her tiny stomach was what appeared to be discarded plastic from food wrapping that she ingested while starving on the streets.

The piece of trash that caused a life-threatening blockage in Futaba’s digestive tract

Once removed, Futaba quickly bounced back and started gaining weight, and is now a happy and healthy housecat!

Kittens in particular are extremely fragile, and many pass away with little explanation. A second opinion never hurts, and a blockage is not by any means obvious. Like Futaba, it can save lives!