Brrr.... Kitty

Wed, December 5, 2007

Kitty survives frigid ordeal

By LAURA CZEKAJ, SUN MEDIA

Little Popsicle's name was, sadly, earned.

The little orange tabby was found comatose and suffering from severe hypothermia Sunday afternoon on the property of a Riverside South area resident, who called the Ottawa Humane Society.

The year-old cat appeared lifeless and initially didn't register a temperature. No one thought she'd survive.

"When she was first brought in, we all thought the worst," said Tara Jackson, OHS communications manager.

But a trip to kitty heaven wasn't in the cards yet for the frosty feline, whose lovable demeanour could thaw the coldest heart. Shelter staff who are nursing Popsicle back to health say she's "plucky," but timid after her frigid ordeal.
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DEATH-DEFYING

"She was really in rough shape, so to have this turn around is pretty remarkable," said Jackson.

Quick-thinking OHS emergency staff wrapped Popsicle in a Bair Hugger -- a forced-air warming blanket designed to safely increase body temperature -- and a veterinary technician spent much of Sunday night monitoring her.

The next morning, staff could breathe a sigh of relief as the orange ball of fuzz showed signs of improvement.

Although staff are trying to determine whether Popsicle has an owner, Jackson said only 5% of cats who come into the shelter are claimed.

The death-defying kitty will be placed in a foster home with an experienced guardian.

Once she has regained her strength, Popsicle will be put up for adoption.

Jackson said another cat was brought in last week suffering from hypothermia and it isn't rare to have cats and dogs come in with frost bite when the weather gets really cold.

"We recommend that a nice warm house is the best place for your cat as, unfortunately, this sad story has shown," she said, referring to Popsicle.

In the case of dogs, instead of marathon walks the shelter recommends owners keep outside treks short on really chilly days.

"If it's too cold for you outside, it's definitely going to be too cold for your animal," said Jackson.

Temperatures are expected to nose dive again today. Environment Canada is forecasting a high of -6C with a chance of flurries throughout the day and a low of -17C tonight. Tomorrow will be a mix of sun and cloud with a high of -4C.