05/13/2026
Meet Gustav. 💚
An 8-month-old kitten at the time who came to us not acting like himself.
A few days earlier, Gustav had been treated for puncture wounds after a cat fight. Despite initial treatment, he wasn’t improving.
When he presented to our hospital, he was:
• Lethargic
• Not eating
• Barely drinking
• Going to the litter box but not producing
• Developing a foul odor from the wound site
On examination, we discovered necrotic (dead) tissue and a progressing infection.
Cat bite wounds may look small on the outside, but underneath they can cause devastating damage. Their sharp teeth create deep punctures that trap bacteria below the skin, allowing infection to spread quickly.
Our team surgically removed the dead tissue and began aggressive wound management. Unfortunately, despite treatment, Gustav’s skin continued to slough.
At that point, we had two options:
1⃣ Months of ongoing wound care
• Bandage changes every 2–3 days
• Sedation with each bandage change
• Frequent hospital visits
• Prolonged recovery
OR
2⃣Amputation to remove the diseased limb and give Gustav the best chance at a pain-free recovery
After thoughtful discussion with his family, amputation was chosen.
Cats adapt incredibly well to three legs. And most importantly… Gustav recovered. 💚
Today, he is happy, healthy, and thriving on three legs.
Here’s what Gustav’s family had to say:
“Hi Abby team! Just wanted to thank all of you, and especially Drs. Hannon, Slater, and Karkula (I’m sure there were many more of you) who worked together to save Gus’s life (Gustave). Today is his official Cone-Off day. 2.5 months on cone, 5 surgeries, and 5 antibiotics later, his little hip seems to finally be healed and clear. He is dashing about, climbing his cat tree, acting as if life with three legs is just the way it ought to be.” 🐈
💓 Cases like Gustav’s remind us why we do what we do.
Cat bite wounds are never “just a puncture.”
If your cat has been in a fight and you notice swelling, odor, lethargy, or appetite changes seek care immediately.
Early intervention can make all the difference.
