Warning: The following content contains graphic images that may be disturbing to some viewers. Ready For Rescue, a rescue organization based in New York City, received a distressing call from a woman who had witnessed a cat being hit by a car in the Bronx. Upon hearing this, Brooke, the lead cat coordinator of the organization, immediately knew she had to step in and help the injured feline. She recalls that it was a bitterly cold day and the poor cat was lying helplessly on the sidewalk, vulnerable to not only the harsh weather but also potential harm from unsympathetic kids in the area.
It was a relief when the lady took the little black and white cat and brought it along with her to work at a bakery. When Brooke arrived at the bakery, she was informed that the beaten-up cat might have already died. Upon seeing the cat, Brooke found it lying inside a box, with blankets and a sweatshirt covering it. The cat was in a terrible state, but miraculously still breathing.
In a hurry, Brooke took her injured cat to an emergency vet to receive immediate medical attention. Despite being unsure of the feline’s survival, Brooke continued cheering him up during their drive. She repeatedly encouraged the cat by saying, “You can do it buddy, just hang in there. You are a strong boy.”
Luckily, Brooke’s black and white feline companion, whom she affectionately christened as Howard, managed to make it to the animal hospital alive. However, the vet’s assessment of Howard’s condition was not at all favorable, as the poor creature had suffered significant head injuries. According to Brooke, multiple fractures could be found in Howard’s skull, particularly around his eyes and jaw. The vet discovered that his jaw was shattered in several locations, including his hard and soft palate, as well as numerous teeth.
In addition to other injuries, Howard suffered severe damage to both his eyes. Fortunately, he was able to retain his sight in the right eye but unfortunately, his left eye had ruptured and required removal.
During the following weeks, Howard underwent multiple surgeries that included a lengthy six-hour jaw reconstruction procedure and another operation to insert a feeding tube. According to Brooke, Howard’s body from the neck down remained unscathed, which was remarkable.
Howard, a cat who was found unconscious on a sidewalk in the Bronx over six weeks ago, has finally found a foster home where he can recover until he is ready to be adopted by his forever family. He is blind and still facing some difficulties with his litter box, but his caretaker Brooke believes that he will do well in a consistent and quiet home. Despite encountering people who suggest euthanasia for injured animals, Brooke believes that animals with a chance of survival and quality of life should be given treatment and not put down. Howard’s recovery has been overseen by dedicated medical professionals who are amazed at his resilience.
Howard, a young feline believed to be around four years old, has been through a lot in his short life. However, thanks to the efforts of medical professionals, his rescuer, foster family, and Ready For Rescue, he is doing exceptionally well. Despite his past, Howard remains sweet and playful and loves sitting on laps and playing with homemade crinkle balls. Brooke hopes that by sharing Howard’s story, it will not only help him find his forever home but also showcase the resilience of living creatures. Howard is a positive example of love, life, strength, and resilience, and he has brought many people together who care for him and generously donated towards his care.
If you want to know more about this charming feline, feel free to follow Howard’s Instagram account.
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