Shmi's Six Week Checkup

Last Thursday was Shmi's 6 week evaluation by the Vet. Dr. Kirch's team at the Cat Hospital of Durham took new radiographs of Shmi's leg (see images). Dr. Clary, Shmi's orthopedic surgeon, assessed the current condition of her right leg. The conclusion-- implant is stable but union is not yet complete so 4 to 5 more weeks of crate confinement. Shmi was a little upset by this news (she had her hopes set on cell-block freedom!). Alas--it seems she will be confined for the full 10 weeks post-op suggestion. Dr. Clary did say she could move into new digs--a larger crate. We are moving her in tonight. Shmi seems very excited as she will have 12 additional inches separating her from the litter box! Dr. Clary said that the condition of Shmi's muscle mass indicates that she has good limb usage at this time. Between you and me--that's an understatement! Check out her new video!

Upcoming Vet checkup.

Shmi will be going in for her 6-week, post surgery check up later this week. She is looking forward to it, in hopes that she may abandon the crate for good. Besides, she really doesn't like to have the litter box next to her all the time. Really, who could blame her anyway? Shmi gets along very well on her reconstructed leg. She is raring to play and frankly it is hard to keep her from not doing so. Shmi is still a kitten at heart. She loves company and already has claimed several toys as her own. More to come after getting the update from the Vet.

Shmi's fan mail

Happy Valentine's Day Everyone!

Since today is a celebration of love I wanted to take a moment to express my love for all of my loyal supporters. My operation could not have happened without you and for that I am grateful. I would like to send a personal message of thanks to Liz Shelton and Stephen Nance (see letter below) who opened their hearts to me during my time of great need even though they were grieving the loss of their beloved cat, Ivan. Their support proves that although my femur was fractured because of human cruelty there are still many wonderful people (Animal Lovers and Protectors) in the world. So let me say thanks to you all once again for giving me a second chance at life. In honor of Valentine's Day please consider opening your heart to a homeless pet by visiting your local shelter or come by Pet Smart at Patterson Place this Saturday from 1-5 pm to meet my IAR compatriots.

Love,
Shmi

Shmi's Perspective

Day 146 of captivity, okay maybe it has only been 4 weeks. My captors continue to lock me in this cage. They mock my very existence with their petty visits. They will not break me though. The male is an odd creature of habit. He enters my primary confines to burn images of my gorgeous self on some sort of electronic third eye. Then he gets me to prance around this dungeon-like room for his amusement. The female visits are more for my amusement and bringing me food. They both allow me out of my cell in order to stretch. While I have my back turned, I know they are checking my bed for contraband. I think I can take the male, but the female is clever. My leg is healing nicely. Soon maybe the scar will heal and I pray the hair will grow back. Oh, the horror, the horror. I am so ready to get out of solitary confinement. I want to run, play and explore. I have seen glimpses of intelligent creatures (Cats!) on the other side of my door. Oh, I so long to see and play (pounce and chase!) them. Humans are so overrated. I am sure the humans will post more pictures of me below. They can be so cruel.