Estimated to be three year’s old, Leela arrived at our Cat Clinic trembling and disorientated, with a head injury, a visibly impacted eye, and neurological symptoms.

Prior to her rescue, Leela had been living in what is known as a cat 'colony' - a large number of stray and feral cats co-existing in one area, as a result of uncontrolled breeding. During this time she had given birth to at least one litter of kittens, as is ultimately inevitable for any unneutered female cat roaming the streets. 

A regular feeder of the cat colony decided to bring Leela to our Clinic after observing her neurological symptoms - a permanent head tilt - over a period of around four months. She was given immediate pain relief upon arrival, and then gently examined by our vet, who assessed that the injury was old and had healed to some extent, and that Leela would likely be mildly disabled for life. Nonetheless, further investigation was required, including multiple x-rays, which also helped to determine whether Leela's damaged eye would require removal; thankfully this was deemed unnecessary.

A sample was also taken from an ulcerated growth inside Leela's ear for further tests, and standard procedures such as spaying, flea and worming treatments, microchipping, and so on, were carried out.

We have a great deal of hope that one day she will be a contented and happy cat in human company - her adopter will need to continue our work to help her to realise that she is safe at last.

Leela successfully underwent surgery where a polyp was removed from her ear that was so large it extended deep into her ear canal. The specialist who assisted our Head Vet with this surgery suggested the possibility that the polyp removal may potentially reduce Leela's existing head tilt. She will certainly be more comfortable now.

Further scans / x-rays will need to be done at a later date to determine whether any other polyps remain, but right now we are focused on Leela's recovery and giving her as much TLC as possible. 

Leela’s adopter must have experience in caring for a cat of their own who needs a lot of time, space and patience to settle and be comfortable in taking on a cat with health needs. For continuity of care we would prefer Leela to remain within travelling distance to the Catcuddles Cat Clinic in Palmers Green (N13) and suitable applications in the locality will be prioritised. 

Leela loves other cats and we would like to find her a home with one or more existing cats in the home who are used to living with other cats. Introductions to resident cats should always be done slowly and regardless of whether their new home has another cat must initially remain in a dedicated, clutter free ‘bonding room’ without spaces that she can hide that are completely out of reach. 

The ability to learn from other cats that humans can be trusted will no doubt help her to settle as well. Leela will need to live in a quiet and settled adult-only home without any significant changes on the horizon. 

Anyone adopting an indoor cat from us needs to be committed to creating a safe, stimulating and enriching indoor environment and ensuring it is safe, i.e. cat proofing any windows that will be opened, and fully cat proofing a balcony if there is one. The adoptions team can offer advice on this.

Before submitting an adoption enquiry it is important to ensure that you have read our adoption info page: Adopting a cat from Catcuddles.

Our priority is to match felines with homes that suit their needs, character and long term requirements. Please be aware that when a particular cat receives an unusually high volume of enquiries, our dedicated adoptions volunteers may only be able to pursue the most promising. We appreciate your understanding.