California Rescue Cat Was About To Get Euthanized After Being Misdiagnosed

When I first heard about Journey, the cat from today’s story, I was reminded that even something as innocent as a walk around the backyard can sometimes take a dark turn.

Journey, an adorable tuxedo cat, spent most of his life living on the streets of Riverside, California. Struggling to find food and shelter, Journey’s life took a tragic turn when he developed a large growth on the bridge of his nose. 

One day, the poor soul was found by rescue agents in a desperate state. The lump on his nose was so big that he couldn’t even breathe properly through his nostrils.

The rescuers quickly rushed Journey to the shelter, hoping they could help. However, because they initially thought the growth might be cancerous, they put him on the euthanasia list.

Journey’s life was hanging by a thread, as the shelter staff feared they might not be able to save him.

Fortunately, the shelter posted a picture of Journey on their website, and that’s when a kind-hearted woman named Lucille saw it. 

She was immediately heartbroken by Journey’s condition and knew she had to help. Without hesitation, Lucille reached out to the shelter, eager to adopt him and provide the care he desperately needed.

Lucille quickly took Journey to the animal hospital, where they learned the truth about his condition. To her relief, it wasn’t cancer causing the growth on his nose—it was a dangerous fungal infection called cryptococcosis.

Cryptococcosis is caused by inhaling spores from the fungal Cryptococcus gattii or Neoformans species complex. 

According to Cornell University, this fungal infection can make breathing difficult, cause loss of appetite, and even lead to balance problems. If left untreated, it can attack the brain and be potentially life-threatening.

The vet explained to Lucille that treatment was possible, but it would be a long and difficult road for both of them. Lucille was ready to take on the challenge, determined to give Journey the life he deserved. She shared in an update:

“This disease will take up to a year for complete recovery. It isn’t contagious to other animals. The growth on the bridge of his nose has decreased. Sneezing has slowed also.”

And so, for the next year, Journey fought bravely against the fungal infection, while Lucille showered him with all the love and care he needed. Although there were a few setbacks along the way, the growth on his nose began to shrink, and Journey started to regain his strength.

Lucille had to work hard to make sure Journey was eating properly, as the medication caused him to lose his appetite. She monitored his weight carefully, making sure he was gaining strength each day.

Almost two years after Lucille saved Journey’s life, the growth on his nose was nearly gone. However, Lucille shared in a post that they were still not completely in the clear:

“Last week he received a Blood Titer test. This tells us how far his cryptococcosis has come to being cured. When he was rescued his blood titer was over 30,000. It is now 32. In order to be considered cured he needs a titer test of ZERO!!! Journey is in the home stretch of leaving cryptococcosis behind him.”

Despite the long road to recovery, Journey had defied the odds. With Lucille by his side, he was on his way to a full recovery. The once-sick kitten had grown into a brave cat, showing everyone the power of resilience and love.

Lucille continues to share Journey’s inspiring recovery on Instagram, posting updates and adorable pictures for his fans. 

Journey’s story reminds us that no matter how difficult the journey, with the right care and determination, even the most fragile lives can be saved.