Cat paralysed by air gun defies odds to walk again
Date published: 03 April 2018
Miracle kitty: Otis was paralysed from the waist down after he was shot in the spine with an air gun
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A cat that was horrifically paralysed after being targeted with an air gun has astounded his owner by walking again.
'Miracle kitty' Otis, who was shot in the spine earlier this year, is now strong enough to undergo surgery to determine the pellet’s exact location, and potential removal. The bills are estimated to cost around £413 for x-rays plus extraction.
Otis was found by resident Carmel Cavanagh near Alder Road in Castleton on 26 January after he was attacked, believed to be targeted due to the pellet’s proximity to his spine.
The loveable grey and white moggy is now living with local rescuer Deborah Maureen, after briefly being cared for by feline fosterer, Fiona Harvey. He is believed to be just two or three years of age.
Debbie said: “Otis needs a couple of x-rays to see if it’s moved, but he is now strong enough to be sedated for the pellet to be removed. I think the pellet has moved as he has regained movement. He can’t run, or turn around fast, and he’ll never be an outside cat again, but he’s come such a long way.
“He didn’t ask for any of this, nonetheless he’s got his fighting spirit back and just proves you should never give up.”
The horrific attack on Otis followed similar attacks on two cats from the borough last summer. Caspar, a black and white cat from Heywood, was shot near his home last May, and Macy, a black and white rescue cat from Newhey, lost her eye after she was shot.
Deliberately injuring an animal with an air rifle carries the threat of at least six months in prison and/or a fine of up to £20,000. A public consultation on air weapon regulation was held earlier this year.
The outcome is yet to be announced.
To help fund Otis’ treatment, visit:
https://www.gofundme.com/5cmgl1s?member=49414
Donations can also be made directly to Valley Vet Care, 48 Whitworth Road, Rochdale, OL12 0EZ Tel: 01706 656559
Otis defies the odds to walk again
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