Maroela Animal Hospital

31/07/2026

💔 **We Need Your Help** 💔

Hoedspruit Alley Cats is in a very difficult position, and today we're reaching out to our amazing community for help.

Over the past few weeks, we've taken in a large number of sick and vulnerable kittens that needed urgent veterinary treatment, medication, and around-the-clock care. At the same time, we've continued our sterilisation efforts because preventing unwanted litters is the only long-term solution to reducing the number of homeless cats in our area.

While we're incredibly proud of the lives we've been able to save and the cats we've prevented from adding to the growing stray population, it has come at a cost. Our veterinary account has grown to a point where we are desperately in need of funding to keep going.

Every donation, no matter how small, will go directly towards paying our outstanding veterinary bill so that we can continue helping cats and kittens that have nowhere else to turn.

If you've ever supported us by adopting, donating, sharing our posts, or cheering us on, we're asking for your help once again. Without your support, our work simply isn't possible.

🐾 If you would like to make a donation, please send us a message or use the banking details below.

Even if you're unable to donate, sharing this post could help it reach someone who can.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for standing with us and for helping us give these cats a second chance. ❤️

Banking details:
Account name: HACI
Bank: FNB
Acc number: 62662928591

Alternatively donations can be made directly to Maroela Animal Hospital with reference “HACI”

20/07/2026

🐍🐾 **A Good Reminder of Why Time Matters**

A few weeks ago we treated two siblings, Eden and Jasper, after they were bitten by a cobra.

Eden arrived at Maroela Animal Hospital in a critical condition. She was struggling to breathe, her gums had turned purple, and she required immediate emergency treatment. Dr. Liesel administered two vials of polyvalent antivenom, but due to the severity of the envenomation, Eden remained comatose and her condition was still very guarded.

A huge thank you to Hoedspruit Reptile Centre, who quickly supplied an additional two vials of antivenom when we needed them most.

Later that evening, Eden's owners contacted us to say that their other dog, Jasper, had also started showing signs of a snake bite. Fortunately, Jasper's symptoms were less severe, but he also required treatment with antivenom. Once again, Hoedspruit Reptile Centre kindly provided another two vials without hesitation.

Both dogs were admitted overnight for intensive monitoring and supportive care. Dr. Jamie and Christo stayed with them throughout the night, ensuring they received the care they needed.

We're very happy to report that both Eden and Jasper recovered well and were able to go home with their family.

Snake bites are always an emergency, and the sooner treatment is started, the better the chances of a positive outcome. If you suspect your pet has been bitten by a snake, please seek veterinary attention as soon as possible.

Thank you to Eden and Jasper's owners for acting so quickly and to Hoedspruit Reptile Centre for their generosity and support. Working together made all the difference for these two dogs.

We wish Eden and Jasper a smooth recovery and hope they're back to enjoying life again very soon. 💚🐾

16/07/2026

If anyone near the Driehoek area is missing a black shepherd and a schnauzer, please contact us.

15/07/2026

10/07/2026

🐾 A Friendly Reminder to Our Valued Clients 🐾

At Maroela Animal Hospital, we are legally required to comply with the rules governing veterinary medicines.

By law:
• We cannot dispense scheduled medication based on a prescription from another veterinary practice.
• We cannot dispense scheduled medication if your pet has not been examined by one of our veterinarians within the last 6 months.

These regulations are in place to protect the health and welfare of your pets and ensure the responsible use of medication.

Our receptionists and veterinary staff are simply following the law and the professional standards required of them.

We kindly ask that they are treated with the same respect and courtesy that they extend to every client. Verbal abuse, intimidation, or disrespect towards our staff will not be tolerated.
We appreciate your understanding, kindness, and cooperation as we continue to provide the highest standard of care for your pets. ❤️🐶🐱

03/07/2026

Santa Paws arrived early!
Unwrap 25% off all Hill's pet food and save up to R1000!
No minimum spend required. Visit www.SaveOnHills.co.za to get your coupon now! Ts & Cs apply

26/06/2026

🎉🎂 Happy Birthday, Dr Liesel Schreiber ! 🥳🐾

Today we celebrate not only an incredible veterinarian but also an amazing leader, colleague, and friend.

Your compassion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to every patient that walks through our doors make Maroela Animal Hospital a truly special place.

We hope your birthday is filled with love, laughter, and all the happiness you bring to those around you.

With love and appreciation,
Everyone at Maroela Animal Hospital

24/06/2026

🔥 Buy Ultra Pet Optiwoof Adult 20kg and get an 8kg bag FREE! 🔥

08/06/2026

🐱 **Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP): There is Hope!** 🐱

For many years, a diagnosis of Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) was considered a death sentence for cats. Today, thanks to major advances in veterinary medicine, FIP is now a treatable disease with an excellent success rate when diagnosed and treated early.

**What is FIP?**
FIP is a serious disease caused by a mutation of the feline coronavirus (FCoV), a common virus that infects many cats, especially those living in multi-cat environments. While most cats infected with feline coronavirus never become ill, a small percentage develop FIP when the virus mutates within their body.

**Which cats are most at risk?**
The highest-risk groups include:
🔹 Kittens and young cats under 2 years of age
🔹 Cats living in multi-cat households, shelters, or catteries
🔹 Cats experiencing stress or recent illness
🔹 Certain purebred cats that may have a genetic predisposition

**Clinical Signs of FIP**
FIP can be challenging to diagnose because its symptoms often mimic other diseases. Common signs include:
🔸 Persistent fever that does not respond to antibiotics
🔸 Loss of appetite
🔸 Weight loss
🔸 Lethargy and depression
🔸 Poor growth in kittens

There are two main forms of FIP:

💧 **Wet (Effusive) FIP**
• Fluid accumulation in the abdomen, causing a swollen belly
• Fluid around the lungs, leading to difficulty breathing

🧠 **Dry (Non-Effusive) FIP**
• Neurological signs such as wobbliness, seizures, or weakness
• Eye abnormalities including inflammation or vision changes
• Organ involvement causing a variety of symptoms

**The Good News – FIP Can Now Be Treated**
Recent antiviral medications have revolutionised FIP treatment. These medications target the virus directly and have achieved remarkable results worldwide.

When treatment is started promptly and monitored appropriately, success rates often exceed **80–90%**, with many cats going on to live healthy, normal lives.

**Early diagnosis is key.**
If your cat is showing any of the signs listed above, contact us as soon as possible. The sooner FIP is identified, the better the chances of a successful outcome.

📞 If you have concerns about your cat, contact Maroela Animal Hospital to schedule an examination. Together, we can give your feline friend the best possible chance at recovery. ❤️🐾