Janine Bentley, who works at the South Shields branch of Blythman and Partners, took the rare course of action when heavily pregnant Madeline was brought into the surgery. Caesarean births are common in dogs but very rare in cats, and although the 24-year-old vet had seen them performed before, this was her first time doing one. The operation was a success and saved the life of Madeline and her four kittens – one of which she is rehoming herself, along with the mother. Ms Bentley, from Whitley Bay, said: "Madeline is a very young cat. It was likely her pregnancy would be difficult, though performing a Caesarean section on a cat of any age is rare." "It's a delicate operation. It's lucky we have the equipment, and a great team on hand, or we may have lost them all. All of the kittens have now been rehomed, I am keeping one of them, Henry, as well as the mother." "Working at Blythman and Partners, means dedication to the welfare of animals, I definitely agree with neutering animals to prevent needless suffering and abandonment." "I would advise anyone taking in a stray to bring them along to their vet for a full check up." |
