Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo
  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

Kitten attacked, has neck lump, breathing issues. How to afford vet?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered

Hi, my kitten who is 4-5 months old was recently attacked. a few days after he has a large lump from the center of his neck almost to the corner of his mouth. i'm very scared. he's breathing out of his mouth and he constantly open and closes it. he also suffers from neck paralysis. i don't have any money to take him to a vet. please help me.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on April 10th, 2018

I'm so sorry Tiger was attacked! It's extremely concerning that he is breathing out is mouth, which is not normal for cat. This indicates respiratory distress, and this combined with his other symptoms, are a medical emergency. Respiratory distress, if left untreated, is fatal and there is nothing you can do at home for him, he has to see a vet now. I would see if you can borrow money from family and friends to afford the vet, and I can give you some resources that may help. You can see if your vet accepts payment plans, if there is a low cost clinic in your area, or you can apply for Care Credit online. There is also an organization called Red Rover that give grants for treatment of sick animals, and you can see if you qualify for one of their grants. Best Friends also has a list of resources that offer financial assistance on their website.
http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/trouble_affording_pet.html?credit=web_id91754962
https://www.redrover.org
https://www.carecredit.com
http://bestfriends.org/resources/financial-aid-pets
http://lessonsfromaparalyzeddog.com/when-pet-owners-cant-afford-veterinary-bills/
http://www.dogheirs.com/resources-affordable-veterinary-care/


I hope one of these resources helps you afford a vet, please take him into one now.
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 10th, 2018

    This is very sad for poor Tiger. He sounds like he is suffering a great deal and I consider this is an emergency. I understand that money is a concern, but it would not be fair to allow him suffer like this. The vets at the emergency clinic can recommend various options, so it's worth taking him there even if you don't have any money. The local shelter should also have an emergency line that you can call to get assistance, as this is an animal welfare issue.

    I hope that helps and Tiger gets cared for soon.

    Vote Icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share

Styled arrow button