VETS in Newton Abbot had to amputate a cat’s tail following a painful fracture.

Minnie, a one-year-old British Shorthair cat, was taken to Amity Veterinary Care after her owner noticed swelling and a lump around the base of her tail.

She was otherwise eating and drinking normally and remained mobile, but showed signs of significant discomfort when the base of her tail was touched.

An examination identified a suspected tail fracture, with the injury located close to the base of the spine.

Because the precise location and extent of the fracture could not initially be determined, X-rays were taken under general anaesthetic to establish the safest and most appropriate surgical approach.

Following assessment of the X-rays, the decision was made to amputate the injured part of Minnie’s tail.

The veterinary team paid particular attention to the potential impact of the injury on the nerves controlling Minnie’s toilet function.

Minnie is being closely monitored following surgery for any changes in these functions and will receive ongoing pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication as required.

Her care after surgery includes monitoring at home and scheduled veterinary checks, including follow-up assessments which are carried out at about two days and 10 days after the procedure.

Minnie is now recovering following her operation, with her veterinary team continuing to monitor her progress.

Dr Lennon Foo, of Amity Veterinary Care, said: ‘Minnie is very lucky to have such dedicated and caring guardians who acted quickly to ensure she received the appropriate veterinary care.

‘Their prompt action helped to minimise any further complications and ensured Minnie received the best possible chance of a smooth recovery.’