A difficult dilemma
Treating a cat with a broken leg is often a long and costly process. The situation is even more challenging when the patient is a very elderly cat.
Sadly, this was the exact predicament faced by a 21-year-old ginger tomcat. He was brought to a veterinary clinic in the Pays de la Loire region of France in late summer 2024 with a badly broken femur that required surgery. But given his advanced age, what was the right decision to make?
A brave decision
After discussing the options with the veterinary team at the Beaufeu clinic in Roëzé-sur-Sarthe, the owners made the decision they felt was best for their beloved cat: they wanted to go ahead with the operation, despite his age.
Thanks to blood tests that were exceptionally good for a cat of his age, he was given the green light for surgery. A vet then performed the procedure, stabilising the fracture with screws and plates.
A few weeks after the surgery, the Beaufeu veterinary clinic shared some wonderful news on its Facebook page: the old tomcat has recovered well from his operation and can now continue to enjoy his peaceful life.
By sharing this story, the clinic's team wanted to offer an essential reminder: even if a pet is old, you shouldn't give up on their health or dismiss treatment options out of hand. Senior animals are often capable of overcoming health problems when they have the support of a good veterinary team and dedicated owners.
