Domino the kitten fights for life against all odds.
A tiny kitten who suffered horrific injuries after being attacked by a wild dog has made a full recovery after being handed over to Cats for Rescue.
At just four months old, brave Domino was brought to a charity after being found in a mutilated state—with a broken leg and numerous puncture and laceration wounds all over his body that had become infected and festering. It was determined that the kitten had been attacked by a dog.
"Domino (as the kitten was named) looked like something out of a horror movie when he arrived. No one thought Domino would survive even a few hours," says Diana Mulcahy, manager of the Cats for Life Foundation. "I've seen cats attacked by dogs before, but this was the most horrific case I've ever encountered. We rushed him straight to our vet, who was delighted. He examined Domino, saw something, and told us he believed this kitten wasn't ready to give up on life so easily, and he would fight for it, clinging to any chance he got."
Treatment began immediately, and within 24 hours, Domino began showing signs of improvement. His determination and strength of character were remarkable; he truly clung to life tooth and nail.
Domino underwent extensive treatment, including surgery to repair her broken leg (osteosynthesis). A course of antibiotics was also prescribed to prevent infection. Despite a temporary metal frame being installed in her leg while it heals, the brave kitten is attempting to walk. Everyone is very hopeful that both legs will fully recover.
Veterinarian Keith Leonard, from Vets4Pets, who treated Domino, said: "When I first saw Domino, I honestly thought we'd have no choice but to euthanize the poor thing. Both of his back legs were so badly broken and inflamed that it seemed unlikely we could save them.
But he reminded me of my own cat, who was found in a black bag with a broken leg, and I knew I had to try to help – especially when I saw how Domino didn't seem ready to give up.
I thought the best solution was to amputate the infected paw, but the other paw was broken so badly that I didn't think I could fix it.
Domino is a little star, very affectionate yet quite cheeky. It's so much fun to watch him scamper around. He's smart, despite his young age. He quickly figured out how to open the door by pressing his paws on the handle. He's a real fighter, and we love him so much."
Diane added that she was grateful to Vets4Pets and donated £1,000 to the clinic.
She says, "We're so lucky to have such a wonderful vet who shares our belief that Domino deserves a chance. His care could have been incredibly expensive, so we're so grateful to everyone who was so generous."
It will be a long road to recovery, but thanks to the fantastic veterinary care he received, Domino is recovering very quickly. He's a special cat. Despite everything he's been through, he's happy, cheerful, and delights in everyone he meets."
Cat Protection manager Jackie said Domino's case shows why new laws need to be considered and passed to address dog attacks on cats.
The charity launched its Manifesto for Cats this year, which outlined measures to improve the lives of cats in the UK, including the creation of new legislation to regulate the number of dangerous dogs. After all, an out-of-control dog can injure or kill a cat.
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