The £21,000 Feline Surgery Redefining Veterinary Limits
Matt TreacySouth of England
BBC
In early 2025, during what was supposed to be a routine veterinary visit for Kobi the cat, alarming signs prompted further inquiry.
Co-owner Paul Lovatt sensed something was amiss: “after playing, he would breathe heavily and his neck would pulse while he slept.”
The couple was advised to consult with a specialized veterinary cardiology center that focuses exclusively on pets.
“Without the surgery, he would have certainly passed away,” remarked Marie Ruffell, Paul’s partner.
Upon examination,it was discovered that Kobi had an abnormality involving extra arteries supplying blood to his heart and was in the initial stages of heart failure due to this excessive strain.
The intricate procedure aimed at blocking one of these blood flow routes took several hours and is considered one of the most complex surgeries performed at Southern Counties Veterinary Specialists in Ringwood, Hampshire.
“I appreciate the challenge,” stated Tobi Wagner, head of Cardiology at the facility. He views Kobi’s case as indicative of advancements in veterinary surgical practices.
< p data-component=”caption-block” >< figcaption > The Ringwood facility stands out as one of the premier specialist-led referral centers in the UK
< p > “It felt surreal considering we could have bought a motorcycle rather for that amount; though it felt right,” he continued.
< p > The couple never hesitated when deciding on treatment for what they referred to as “one of their children.”
< p > “What Tobi has done for Kobi… I can’t express my gratitude enough,” said Ruffell emotionally.
“I’ve seen significant changes,” he noted sadly; many animals are being euthanized rather than treated because owners feel financially constrained—this is truly disheartening.”
Peggy had been born with an open blood vessel which placed undue stress on her heart.
In less than ninety minutes after arriving there she was prepped under anesthesia and taken into an operating room equipped similarly to those used for human patients.
Vicki Greet,a cardiology clinician explained: “People often don’t realize how similar our setup is compared to human hospitals—while not identical they follow similar principles.”
“I feel incredibly fortunate and privileged doing this job,” she added enthusiastically.
Peggy underwent successful keyhole surgery aimed at correcting her artery issue; within forty-eight hours she returned home fully recovered alongside Ruth.
Wagner concluded by stating: “We genuinely strive towards providing top-notch care as we understand how precious these pets are to their families.”