Spunky’s Story
When Spunky, a young rescue kitten with two broken front legs, was given little chance of recovery, a dedicated team of veterinarians, volunteers, and Arthrex support helped give him a second chance.
Spunky arrived at an emergency veterinary clinic in Fort Collins, Colorado, with fractures in both front legs. His previous owners were unable to pursue treatment, and euthanasia was being considered.
A Second Chance for Spunky
“They felt really strongly that it would be a shame to euthanize him because of these two fractures,” said Robin Downing, DVM, Hospital Director at Windsor Veterinary Clinic. “It was reasonable to assume that relatively nondisplaced fractures would heal with casts or a splint. But unfortunately, in his case, that did not happen and he ended up with chronic fractures.”
A local rescue organization stepped in, determined to find another option. They reached out to the community in search of a surgeon willing to take on the case.
Surgery for Double Fracture Repair
Trent T. Gall, DVM, DACVS-SA, answered the call and offered to perform the surgery.
“Since it was both front legs, the kitten learned to sit up like a prairie dog. He couldn’t walk normally and was suffering. The only option left was to try the surgery or euthanize him,” Dr. Gall said.
To stabilize the fractures, Dr. Gall performed surgical repair using Arthrex OrthoLine™ fracture plates, which were donated to support the procedure.
The goal was to restore alignment and stability in both legs, giving Spunky the best chance to regain normal movement.
Spunky’s Recovery Journey
“The surgery went very well,” Dr. Gall said. “He has a long road ahead. He needs to learn to walk again, and it will take time to get back to full cat activity, but he should do very well.”
Spunky’s recovery required time, patience, and continued care. During the healing process, he developed nerve-related complications that affected how he used his legs.
“He had to live in an Elizabethan collar (or a cone) because he kept tearing his hair out. He couldn’t extend or flex his toes. Neuropathy may burn, it can cause numbness, or it can tingle. Pets can’t tell us that they’re suffering,” Dr. Downing said.
A New Life After Fracture Treatment
Spunky ultimately found a permanent home with Dr. Downing, where he continued his recovery in a supportive environment.
“Arthrex helped save his life and allowed him to be restored to the life and level of activity that he deserves to have,” she said. “We are so, so grateful that Arthrex came through with the hardware. This poor kitten didn’t have any options left.”
What once felt like an impossible situation gave way to something entirely different. With the right care and the support of those around him, Spunky was given the chance to move forward and live the life ahead of him.
