Cat found frozen, near-death expected to make full recovery at Ottawa Humane Society

The Ottawa Humane Society says a cat is expected to make a full recovery after being found in a near-death state and rushed to its facility.

Gerda, a two-year-old feline, came into the OHS in critical condition after being discovered frozen on the porch of the finder's home.

The cat's body temperature and blood sugar were too low to be measured, says the OHS. Gerda was emaciated and dehydrated, her tail hung limp and one of her hind legs was broken. OHS veterinarians estimated that if she had spent minutes longer exposed to the cold, the kitty may not have survived.

The OHS clinic team worked quickly to raise Gerda's body temperature and blood sugar to stabilize her.

The cat's tail was severely wounded and her fractured leg bone had broken through the skin. Officials say amputating the damaged appendages was the best option for Gerda’s health and recovery.

Once she was stable enough to receive surgery, Dr. Shelley Hutchings, OHS Chief Veterinarian, and Dr. Mary Thompson, OHS Associate Veterinarian, performed the operations to remove Gerda's tail and leg.

“Gerda likely has a long road ahead of her,” says Dr. Hutchings. “But we're optimistic that she will make a complete recovery.”

Gerda is currently resting in OHS critical care as she recovers from her ordeal and the surgeries.

The Ottawa Humane Society is asking for donations to help cover the cost of Gerda's treatment.