MSPCA seeks donations for cat in need of surgery

BOSTON, Mass. (WLNE) — A purebred ragdoll cat brought in by the MSPCA is seeking help to repair a broken hip before he finds his forever home.  

The one-year-old cat, Avatar, was brought to the MSPCA Boston Adoption Center as a stray with a leg injury earlier in December. The broken hip was likely the result of an injury from being on the streets and he is currently scheduled to undergo surgery this week.  

Avatar’s original owners were able to be tracked down through a microchip. However, the family is facing life challenges that don’t allow for them to get Avatar the help he needs. The family surrendered Avatar in hopes that the MSPCA can get him the proper care that he deserves.  

Mike Keiley, the MSPCA-Angell Director of Adoption Centers and Programs, expressed, “It’s extremely uncommon for ragdoll cats to end up in shelters. They’re purebred, so people often pay a thousand dollars or more for them.”

The MSPCA estimated that they have seen fewer than 10 ragdolls in its shelters over the last five years.

Avatar is asking for donations to help reduce the medical cost of his surgery. (MSPCA-Angell)

“This is a really unique situation,” said MSPCA-Angell Director of Adoption Centers and Programs, Mike Keiley. “The owners wanted what was best for Avatar, so they made the incredibly hard decision to surrender, and we appreciate that they trust us with the responsibility of rehoming him.” 

Avatar is asking for donations to help reduce the medical cost of his surgery. (MSPCA-Angell)

“We’ve helped thousands of animals in need, which is really wonderful, but it puts a strain on our resources,” Keiley stated. “Regardless of that, poor Avatar is in pain, so we need to get this surgery done and the sooner the better.” 

The surgery and aftercare are expected to cost $5,000. The MSPCA is asking for donations to help reduce the cost of Avatar’s medical expenses. 

An inquiry form can be filled out to inquire about adopting Avatar after he heals.