Toggles save trapped cat (From Leigh Journal)

Toggles save trapped cat

11:14am Wednesday 1st July 2009

• Print
• Email
• Share

A LUCKY black and white cat has used up eight of his nine lives after he was trapped in his owner’s car engine.

Theo, a 17-years-old puss, who dislocated both his hind legs in his latest adventure, is now back on the road to full recovery after treatment by specialist Tyldesley vet, Gareth Jones.

Owner Gary Grove, of Merlewood Road, Astley, realised that Theo was in trouble after hearing his cries from under the car which was parked on the drive.

When he looked underneath he found the cat suspended by his hind legs and in a state of great distress.

After he tried and failed to free him Gary called in vet, Gareth, who said: “Theo was in great pain. I could see that his hind legs were trapped way up in the engine mountings. Once I’d given him a sedative, I could then manipulate his limbs to free him without causing him further pain.”

Back at the Elliott Street practice it became clear that the cat had significant pelvic injuries including dislocated hips. Following an operation to repair his hips with orthopaedic ‘toggles’, he has made an excellent recovery and is back with his family.

Gary said: “Theo had never shown an interest in cars before this so it was a complete shock to find him trapped under the car. He’s getting on a bit these days so we were all very concerned about him.

“It’s wonderful to see him back to his old self and we’re very grateful to Gareth and the team at Tyldesley Vet Centre. We’ve told Theo in no uncertain terms that if he’s keen to do more car travel, it’s much safer in a cat box than in the engine!”

Gareth said: “We hope he guards his remaining life more carefully!”

Gareth has recently become a partner at the Tyldesley Veterinary Centre and has appeared on the RSPCA TV series ‘Have You Got What it Takes’. He has a special interest in orthopaedic surgery in companion animals.

• Print
• Email
• Share