Time Is Running Out for Twyla's Cleft Palate Repair

Twyla has already fought harder than any kitten ever should. Now she needs your help one more time.

When Twyla was born at the rescue after her pregnant mother was saved, she was much smaller than her siblings. She struggled to nurse, lost weight, and her future was uncertain. The rescue quickly discovered why: she was born with a cleft palate, an opening in the roof of her mouth that made it impossible for her to nurse normally.

Every attempt to eat or drink put her at risk because food and liquid could pass into her respiratory system instead of her stomach.

From the moment they realized something was wrong, the dedicated volunteers at It's Meow or Never for Ferals refused to give up on her. Skilled caregivers worked together around the clock, tube feeding Twyla every two to three hours, day and night, to keep her alive. Their incredible dedication gave this tiny kitten the chance she deserved.

Slowly, Twyla grew stronger. She tripled her weight, filled the rescue with tiny purrs, and showed everyone just how spirited she was. Even with a cleft palate, she never stopped trying to eat and drink like every other kitten. She embraced life with determination, spending her days playing with her siblings, snuggling with her mom, and charming everyone she met.

At just the right age, Twyla underwent the specialized cleft palate repair surgery she desperately needed. It was a huge milestone, and for the first time in her life, she got to enjoy soft, wet food. It was something most cats take for granted, but for Twyla, it was a dream come true.

Sadly, that victory didn't last.

At her four week follow up appointment, after she began sneezing frequently and pawing at her face, specialists confirmed the heartbreaking news: part of the repair had reopened. Fortunately, Twyla isn't in pain, and there is no damaged or dying tissue. Her surgeon explained that this is a known complication of cleft palate repairs, and revision surgery is often necessary to achieve a lasting repair.

Now Twyla urgently needs a second surgery.

Because there is only a limited window while she is still young enough for successful cleft palate repair, time is incredibly important. Until the revision surgery is completed, she has had to go back to eating carefully prepared kibble instead of the wet food she had finally been able to enjoy.

Every day she has to wait is another day without the normal life she's worked so hard for.

Twyla has overcome every obstacle placed in front of her thanks to the unwavering commitment of It's Meow or Never for Ferals. Now she needs our help to reach the finish line.

Please consider making a donation today to help cover the cost of Twyla's revision surgery. Every gift, no matter the size, brings her one step closer to finally living the healthy, comfortable life she's fought so hard to achieve.