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Cats Protection West Norfolk found loving feline Butler with air gun pellet lodged in gums




Charity volunteers came across “the unimaginable” when they discovered an air gun pellet lodged in a rescue cat’s gums.

Butler, described as a loving feline, first came into care at Cats Protection West Norfolk in Stowbridge back in April. His owner had moved home and was unable to take him with them.

Upon his first check-up, it was discovered that Butler had nasal discharge from his left nostril which was consistent with signs of cat flu. He also required dental treatment due to severe gum recession and visible tooth roots.

Butler is believed to have been shot by an air rifle some time ago
Butler is believed to have been shot by an air rifle some time ago

Once he was fit enough, staff decided dental X-rays should also look into his nasal area. Upon carrying these out, they found “the unimaginable”.

“An air gun pellet was located above Butler's upper tooth, with small fragments along the route of impact, with no visible entry point,” a statement from the Cats Protection centre said.

“This suggested Butler had been shot some time ago and the wound had healed over. A nasal flush initially seemed to improve the discharge from his left nostril.”

An X-ray showing the air gun pellet lodged in Butler's gum
An X-ray showing the air gun pellet lodged in Butler's gum

However, Butler then became unwell with further flu symptoms. The centre team and vets rallied to give him extra care and treatment needed to get him through this phase.

They sought advice from field veterinary officers, and agreed that surgery to remove the pellet was the best option as there had been another similar case within Cats Protection which had a successful outcome.

“We gathered all the information and clinical notes to assess the best way to tackle this surgery, more X-rays were carried out to give the vet markers to pinpoint the pellet,” the team added.

“Two months after admission, lovely Butler had complex surgery removing two teeth and the air gun pellet.

Poor Butler was found with an air gun pellet lodged in his gum
Poor Butler was found with an air gun pellet lodged in his gum

“After a long course of antibiotics and pain relief, extra care and attention, Butler is now ready for re-homing and looking for a kind soul who can give him the home he deserves. Butler is a happy and loving boy with a particular love of chin rubs.”

The cost of the multiple X-rays, two surgical procedures, medications and numerous examinations over the course of Butler’s recovery came to more than £2,000.

The Stowbridge team has therefore launched a GoFundMe appeal, asking people to help foot the bill.

So far, £392 has been raised.

“Any help you can give to help care for Butler will be much appreciated, each donation makes such a difference to the care we can give to the cats here,” the team said.

“Any monies over this amount will be used to care for other cats here at West Norfolk Cat Centre. Your support will not only help Butler but also contribute to caring for other cats in need at our centre.”



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