In the field of Veterinary Medicine we are continually amazed at the tremendous healing power of cats. To paraphrase a commonly used and somewhat unusual expression: “there is more than one way to ‘heal’ a cat.” In fact, we often say that if both ‘parts’ of the cat are in the same room, they will be able to heal. Bella is a good example of this phenomenon, and her young age added to her rapid and uneventful recovery in the face of a significant bone fracture.

Bella came to Southpointe Veterinary Hospital with a three-legged lameness. Her owner had heard a loud noise in the night, but there was no other evidence that Bella had experienced a traumatic episode. Upon physical examination significant swelling was noted to her upper right forelimb; amazingly enough, she was walking around in the exam room fairly well and exhibited less pain than would be expected.

As stated previously: “there is more than one way to ‘heal’ a cat,” so the option of complete cage rest (although not optimal) was an option in this case as well. Due to the location (high on the limb) an external splint would potentially have done more harm than good.

Having chosen the route of complete confinement, we monitored Bella’s progress at bi-weekly intervals with physical examinations and radiographs. Bella’s mom was always lamenting that it was extremely difficult to keep her quiet, and she would remark about how active she wanted to be with such a serious injury. Fortunately, with exceptional homecare and dedication from her family, Bella progressed well and recovered quickly.

The series of radiographs are a strong visual representation of Bella’s ability to heal, and to do so well and quickly. She is back to, or I should say, continuing to be her active and healthy self. Cats are truly gifted in the healing department, and Bella’s recovery is a testament to that fact.