30/10/2026
We would like to share an incredible story of our brave feline patient, Gizmo 😺
One afternoon, Gizmo didn’t come home from her usual stroll, which was very unlike her. Her owners began searching straight away. Days turned into weeks with no sign of her, but they never gave up. Our followers in the Epping area may remember the posters appealing for her return around the town.
Five weeks after she went missing, Gizmo was found collapsed in a garden just a few houses from her home. Her owners rushed her to our hospital, where our emergency team found her emaciated, dehydrated, and having lost 50% of her body weight. She was also blind and unable to coordinate her movements, though there were no signs of trauma.
Our vets and nurses suspected she had spent a prolonged period without access to food or water, and that this had led to neurological dysfunction caused by thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency.
What is thiamine deficiency?
Vitamin B1 is vital for normal brain function in cats. When it runs low, for example during prolonged starvation, a cat can develop serious and sometimes fatal brain injury.
Gizmo received intensive care, including rehydration, electrolyte supplementation, and vitamin B1 supplementation. Feeding her was another challenge. She was ravenous, but we could only offer very small, carefully calculated portions. Cats that have been starved for a long time can develop refeeding syndrome if they eat too quickly, which can be life-threatening in itself.
Throughout her hospital stay, her owners visited her every day, and their determination was extraordinary. Despite her blindness, whenever Gizmo heard them arrive, she would meow and purr loudly, then cuddle into their arms, kneading happily.
We’re delighted to share that Gizmo went home recently. Her vision and balance have returned, and she’s almost back to her normal cheeky self, although her full recovery will continue for several weeks.
We’re so proud to have played a part in Gizmo’s recovery and to have worked alongside her loving, devoted owners.
Gizmo, you left paw prints on our hearts! 🐾❤️
