Lena, the tortie, had an amazing transformation after being saved just in time on a farm in Illinois.
Rescuers had to team up fast when a man faced eviction from a farm near Garden Prairie, Illinois. He had just hours to leave the property with 18+ cats and was devastated to lose them all. He cried to see the cats leaving with the rescuers but knew it was best for them. The cats lived outside around the farm, and only one was neutered.
Cats saved from a farm in Garden Prairie, Illinois. Images and media via Facebook/Animal Services & Assistance Programs Inc.
Rescuers from Animal Services & Assistance Programs Inc. (ASAP) took in 9 intact males and “one sickly tortie,” Lena, who was extremely thin.
Lena is gaunt and sickly when rescuers find her.
Another rescuer, Fox Valley Animal Welfare League, agreed to take in the boys for exams, vaccinations, and neutering. The male cats were relaxing at ASAP’s shelter a day later, but Lena was struggling. Although losing a farm is tragic, it’s fortunate that rescuers came at that moment, or she wouldn’t have made it.
Lena Clings to Life
A week later, Lena was clinging to life but getting the best 24-hour care with Dr. Deb and the staff at Pet Vet Animal Clinic and Mobile Practice, Ltd. She was only a little more than 2 pounds, anemic, and had a “raging infection.”
Lena required extensive care if she had any chance, but the rescuers wouldn’t give up on her. The vet had her on two IV pumps to maintain her fluids and deliver antibiotics.
“Her case is very guarded,” they shared on Facebook. “Know that she is safe and warmed and loved! We won’t give up until she does!”
Lena is on two IVs to help with recovery at Pet Vet Animal Clinic and Mobile Practice, Ltd.
Lena Turns the Corner
A couple of days later, Leena’s spirits were improving. She stood up and was chatty with her caregivers.
“She is definitely not out of the woods yet! Hoping this weekend, she will turn the corner. Thank you all for your generosity and prayers! It’s working!” ASAP shared.
Her Legs and Tail Had Been Scalded
Later, the rescuers learned that Lena’s legs and tail had been scalded somehow, leaving her skin “translucent, hairless and painful.” While bathing her, they discovered feces and maggots, so it’s a wonder she survived. But remarkably, she did just that! They applied a soothing white cream to help her heal.
“It is amazing have much she has improved,” they said.
Chatty Kitty Gets a Belly
By the end of the month, Lena was doing great. She remained chatty and moved around much better, showing off her hairless legs and furry socks due to the scalding.
“Leena Is off her IVs. She still is on a heat source. All 4 legs look like she has socks on, but that’s all of the missing hair. Her appetite is really great. She’s getting a little belly,” they shared.
By the next month, her leg hair started to grow back in.
Tortie Queen Ready to Go Home
By the holidays, Lena looked like a brand new cat, and received lots of healing love from the ASAP rescuers. She had gained 3 pounds and was out of the woods.
“Lena wishes you all a Happy Holidays!🐾❤️🎄☃️ Look how great she looks. Lena is up to 5lbs.”
Lena is Just Beautiful
After the holidays, she continued to thrive and is ready to find her furever home at the time of this writing. Who wouldn’t love a beautiful tortie queen like Lena?
“Lena is ready for her forever home. Her transformation has been amazing. From less than 3lbs to an adult weight. The scald on her legs and tail has been replaced by hair, and she is just beautiful. “
You can find out more and help support cats like Leena on Animal Services and Assistance Programs, Inc.’s Facebook and website.
A Wonderful Update on Sven, Found Frozen
Previously, we shared the story of Sven, who ASAP saved after a Good Samaritan found him frozen. The rescue has since shared a cute picture of his rescuer. She has decided to bring him home forever! Congratulations!
“Sven’s rescuer came to visit him today! Sven, was very lucky to be found. His Guardian Angel wants to care for him for the rest of his life. She has a private room ready and waiting to welcome into her home,” ASAP shared.
