Poor Lui my beautiful black cat
Tuesday, 18th March 2025
Today, I brought my cat, Lui, to see Sarah Jane, the vet at Pelyn Vets St Austell, Cornwall During the consultation, Sarah Jane examined Lui's abdomen and confirmed that he does indeed have jowls and male unneutered physical traits. Three years ago, Lui underwent major surgery after one of his testicles was not located in the scrotum. At the time, I was contacted on my mobile (since I live remotely) and could only hear bits of the conversation during the lifesaving operation. I understood that the testicle had not been located and that a major procedure was necessary, as leaving testicular material could potentially be carcinogenic. I gave the go-ahead for the procedure, after which I was informed that Lui had only a half-developed testicle in his abdomen.
However, today Sarah Jane asked me to review her notes, which stated that Lui had a retained testicle that she was able to locate after abdominal surgery. She continued by saying that Lui may have a microscopic amount of testicular material still producing testosterone, which could explain his "Tom cat" behavior. I asked if there was any treatment available to address this, but Sarah Jane explained that there is no treatment, as cat hormones can't be checked (unlike dogs). Additionally, the amount of microscopic material is too small to detect via ultrasound or X-ray.
I was surprised that no blood tests, urine collection, or imaging (such as an ultrasound or X-ray) were offered. The consultation cost £64, and I left without any tangible help or advice regarding Lui’s condition.
When I mentioned that I would like a second opinion, this was not well received. Sarah Jane even questioned why I didn’t trust her. I reminded her that a few years ago, one of her receptionists had read from her notes, stating that Lui still had retained testicular material. Sarah Jane dismissed this, claiming that the receptionist wasn’t a clinical professional.
At this point, I am unsure how to move forward with Lui's care. He still exhibits physical traits and behaviors associated with a male cat, which leads me to believe that he may still have some testicular material causing these behaviors. I do not feel that his care or treatment has been adequate, and I am deeply concerned about the level of care Lui has received from Sarah Jane.
I feel saddened and disappointed by the consultation. Every day I live with a cat who seems to be in distress. If there is indeed any microscopic testicular material within Lui’s body, as Sarah Jane suggested, I believe she has been remiss in offering him proper treatment. In my opinion, the care and professionalism provided to Lui were unacceptable. I left the consultation with no practical help, no advice, and no plan for his ongoing care.
I am left feeling disillusioned with the veterinary care Lui has received.
Sincerely,
P. Jones