In December, we were due to host a fundraising event called Catnapped, where some amazing volunteers would spend three hours in our cattery and raise their “bail” money to be set free. Sadly, the event had to be postponed due to circumstances completely beyond our control.
Our cattery was at serious risk of an outbreak of feline panleukopenia (Pan) – a highly contagious and devastating virus, similar to parvovirus in dogs. Pan causes severe sickness, diarrhoea and dehydration and can be fatal, particularly for kittens.
One of the cats affected was a mum cat called Sandie who arrived in our care with her kittens after being abandoned. Thanks to over 6 weeks of intensive care, dedication and round-the-clock support, Sandie thankfully recovered. Tragically, her kittens Stan and Stu were not so lucky. Despite every effort, these two precious babies succumbed to this terrible virus. Losing them was absolutely heart-breaking for everyone involved and we opted not to share this devastating news publicly during the festive season.
At the same time, our centre was also caring for 7 puppies and 2 adult dogs rescued from a horrific puppy farm in Manchester that made headline news. We shared their story to highlight the importance of safe and responsible breeding, especially around Christmas, and we were overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity shown by our supporters. We will always be grateful for that compassion.
December has been one incredibly tough month for us. Behind the scenes, our team worked tirelessly. The cattery was placed into strict lockdown and our Animal Care Staff did an incredible job preventing the virus from spreading. Every sick cat was given comfort, love and dedicated care. While we are utterly heartbroken by the loss of Stan and Stu, we hope their story highlights just how vital vaccinations are and why rescue centres like ours are so essential.
We are incredibly relieved and proud to say that the virus has now gone, and all of our cattery residents are doing brilliantly.
Because of this, we are delighted to announce that Catnapped in Memory of Stan & Stu will now take place on January 18th.
This fundraiser is our way of turning heartbreak into hope, doing something positive in memory of Stan and Stu, and supporting the incredible people taking part in Catnapped. To make a donation please click the button on this post, or donate via Stripe: https://buy.stripe.com/eVqcN4bxK3k9186fQp0oN0H
By donating, you will be helping to:
Provide emergency care for animals like Sandie, Stan & StuSupport our wonderful Catnapped participantsHelp fund our Really Big Refurb, ensuring our centre remains a safe, welcoming place for animals who need us mostWe also have two spaces left in the event. If you would like to take part and raise funds, please email
fundraising@rspcahalifaxhuddersfieldbradford.org.uk
fundraising@rspcahalifaxhuddersfieldbradford.org.ukEvery donation truly makes a difference. Thank you for standing by us through the hardest moments and for helping us continue to be there for animals when they need us most.