Broken Hip, Orthopedic Surgery Tomorrow

[John Popp]

Chongo had a brief escape last night. He was a little difficult to recapture as we tried going at him without having him really try to take off. He managed to place himself in spots where we could touch him or pet him but not able to easily pick him up. In all he was on the lamb for about 10 minutes, ending his escape with a short leap onto an end table, then pawing at a window to get out.

Definitely a rough one as he looked pretty pathetic trying to claw his way onto the porch where his big buddy Kebu usually hangs out. That's always been one if his favorite things to do, following me to where Kebu gets fed and hangs out, while as quick as possible making his way to the highest perch. Those two definitely like each other, just that the big boy has about a 5 minute tolerance level and puts an end to any kitten games.

On a positive note, Chongo was moving around smoothly without a limp or even a hitch. His leap onto the end table was totally effortless as if nothing was wrong. Not that it's high or anything at just around 18 inches, but more of a leap than he has taken in a month. Just need to be a little more cautious doing crate maintenance and always move him to the carrier. He is definitely ready to be done with this, as are the two of us, just hope he doesn't get any more antsy about escaping.

 

[Patti]

I have a feeling the more he heals, the more escape attempts you will have to deal with. Hopefully the next few weeks will pass quickly!!

 

[John Popp]

I think you're right Patti. It's always harder and harder to keep him occupied and he has a tough time making it past 5 minutes outside the crate before wanting to bolt. He never takes his eyes off of me while he's crated, not sure if it's with a look of contempt or simply wondering how I could do this to him. Either way, it's tough nearly each day with new challenges on inventing entertainment or enticing him to just chill out.

Both of us are really trying to do our best and each day he gets no less than 3 hours of interaction. Just hoping he comes out at the other the end the same kitten that went into the crate, playful, fun loving and a silly boy who could be every bit as lovable. A lot of childhood to give up no matter what we try to do to keep him occupied.

 

[SV Dad]

Sounds like Chongo is coming along nicely. I think he is heeling nicely as it appears his activity level is certainly returning. All of this is good news. I am confident that his personality will persist through this recovery.

 

[Sue]

His brief escape only shows that he is feeling a lot better. I see more escape attempts on the horizon.

 

[John Popp]

We have come to the conclusion that it now takes both of us to have Chongo out of the crate. He'll bolt in a heartbeat after lulling either of us into complacency. A bit bummed by this as it will not only limit his time out of the crate but also that Chongo perceives being crated as some sort of punishment.

His jaunt out yesterday had him directly bolting towards the other two cats for a quick hello. Not the usual kitten sneak attack or rodeo ride, just a quick sniff and an affectionate rub. On a positive note, the other cats were more tolerant of his visit than I would have expected, believing the time away would regress their getting along.

25 days left and if all goes well with his final radiograph appointment, probably a new little brother to play with by that weekend. By the time the quarantine and introductions are over, Chongo should have his wheels pretty well under him and have someone around that can meet his energy level. I believe the older cats will appreciate the break it gives them and Chongo has always been positively responsive to other animals.

 

[Patti]

Sounds like those last 25 days are going to be tough, but at least you are on the home stretch! What a treat for Chongo to get a new playmate at the end of his internment!

 

[John Popp]

Thanks Patti! I hope it all works out. Haven't heard back from the breeder yet, so that part is on ice. My guess is they are just taking a holiday break and I'll pick up the phone on Wednesday.

Resorted to putting on his walking jacket and using a short lead. He always liked having his walking jackets on, whether or not he was going for a walk. It seemed to work out alright, just need to keep it really short (18-24") and he has seemingly forgot most of what he knew about being leash trained.

 

[Patti]

Taking him out on a leash may be a really good option, it gives him some freedom yet controls his moves so he doesn't do anything detrimental.

 

[John Popp]

Thanks Patti!

My only concern is on a lead he would get most of his drive off his rear legs. However, I'm pretty certain that him bolting and me recapturing him would lead to something far more detrimental.

Every day presents new challenges and I very much appreciate all the feedback!!!