Blind Annabelle gets operation

The Waikato SPCA  raised more than  $700  to help a blind cat get a crucial operation.

Brought in as a stray kitten, Annabelle was left blind by a severe case of cat flu.

Cattery assistant at the SPCA Jessica Watson started fostering Annabelle  around 6 to 8 weeks ago.

However, medication failed to save Annabelle’s eyes and she was seen by a specialist who suggested immediate surgery.

Watson said the generosity of people was amazing with over $2400 raised from the appeal.

“Everyone pulled it together and made it happen for her.”

Watson said the extra money raised would go treat other cats with eye problems similar to Annabelle’s.

“Every last cent of it is going back to cats.”

Some people, however, thought  the money spent on the operation would be better spent on other procedures such as de-sexing, for animals that would have a better quality of life.

“She was already blind. It hasn’t changed her quality of life,” said Watson. “If they’re seen by the vet or our specialist and said to be saved then we do everything we can to save them.”

Executive Officer for SPCA Waikato Sara Elliot Warren said  the money for Annabelle’s operation was raised outside of their current funding and had no effect on their operations.

“We spent something like $150,000 on de-sexing in 2013.”

Warren was also amazed with the response. “The public likes to help the Annabelles of the world.”

Annabelle has been adopted by Watson and is making a strong recovery.

“I’ve never seen a depressed or sad face from her.”