The 'Pirate' kittens

The devastating effects caused by not vaccinating a mum cat

A litter of 3 gorgeous black kittens were transferred into our isolation facilities with suspected feline herpes virus. The core vaccinations that cats have protect against this virus, and if mum had been vaccinated then the kittens would have benefitted from her immunity, until they were old enough to be vaccinated themselves.

This flu-type virus has potentially a high death rate for vulnerable kittens. For this trio, the virus affected their eyes, with compromised vision and ulcers. Sadly, for Sparrow and Captain one of their eyes would have to be removed because of damage. For Jack, he physically kept his eye but it was severely damaged and with limited vision. Jack also particularly struggled with respiratory issues from the flu.

Alongside the major operations, the tiny kittens also had worms and fleas – these can be very uncomfortable for a kitten and not to be taken lightly – something so easy to treat made a big difference to them.

Despite the intensive care, they were a confident and rowdy bunch, and we had to keep them entertained just as any other of our kittens, so that they can learn about real life and become great pets. 

We often give cardboard boxes to our cats (they just love them!) but for these one-eyed rascals, it seemed fitting to make them a pirate ship, complete with canons firing out toy balls! They spent a lot of time finding treats and toys within the ship, which was filled with shredded paper. It was perfect enrichment for inquisitive minds, especially those who needed to practice navigating life with limited vision.

Jack and Captain were adopted together, and big boy Sparrow found a loving home to himself. 

Want to know more about vaccinations? 

Read about the core vaccinations, and the diseases they protect against, in our Pet Care Advice section.
» Vaccinations for cats
» Vaccinations for dogs