Vodnik

About the Campaign

Vodnik is a 12-week-old male Devon Rex kitten with PRAA, or persistent right aortic arch. This is a congenital condition where a blood vessel forms a ring around the esophagus, squeezing it and making it hard for food to pass normally. Without surgery, kittens with PRAA can struggle to eat, regurgitate food, fail to grow, and develop serious complications.

Krystal first noticed something was wrong because Vodnik seemed to have trouble swallowing. At first, she thought maybe he was just eating too fast. She had no idea it would turn out to be something this serious. The CT scan confirmed the problem, and now Vodnik needs surgery to release the restriction on his esophagus.

Vodnik was born at home to an experienced, small in home Devon Rex breeder. Due to severe allergies, her family cannot have most types of animals, and Devon Rex cats fill an irreplaceable place in both their home and the homes of the families who welcome their kittens. Vodnik is the first kitten they have ever had born with a serious medical condition. Although he was enrolled in pet insurance, the company later rescinded coverage, stating that he was too young for the policy to apply when his condition became an emergency.

Since his diagnosis, the family has done everything they can to cover the cost of his care on their own. They have hosted, and continue to plan, fundraisers and special events through their tattoo and piercing shop, with all proceeds going toward Vodnik’s medical expenses in the hope of avoiding asking others for financial help. While those efforts have already raised several thousand dollars and covered much of the cost of his diagnostic testing and CT scan, they simply cannot raise the funds for his life saving surgery quickly enough. Vodnik needs surgery as soon as possible, and time is not on his side.

Until then, Vodnik requires feedings every two to three hours around the clock. His family’s focus is on keeping him nourished, comfortable, and healthy while they fight to give him the chance to recover and live the happy life he deserves.

This surgery is urgent, but it is also hopeful. Vodnik is still just a baby, and if the pressure on his esophagus can be corrected, he has a chance to eat, grow, and live a normal kitten life. Donations will help cover his PRAA surgery, anesthesia, hospitalization, medications, and follow-up care. All donations are paid only to the veterinarian. Estimate below, please click to enlarge: