Unfortunately, Mercury suffers from feline stomatitis and his condition was so severe that multiple vets recommended extensive oral surgery to treat him. Poor Mercury doesn't know how long he's been a stray and how much suffering and pain he's been through

We are doing a fundraiser today as we can't afford to pay for Mercury's surgical treatment out of our own pockets. His regular vet gave us an estimate of less than $4,000 for surgery. When we took Mercury to another vet for a second opinion, they gave us an estimate of about $2,000, but that was only a partial extraction.

The veterinary handbook defines stomatitis as follows, ‘Stomatitis is inflammation of the mucous membranes of the oral cavity, reaching deep into the affected tissues. Cats with feline stomatitis have progressively worsening inflammation of the mouth, gums and upper part of the throat. The tissues at the back of the throat may bulge and become extensively ulcerated. The cause has not been proven, but may be related to an inappropriate inflammatory response to surface substances on the teeth. Many affected cats also harbour long-term cupripox organisms. The most immediate symptom is severe pain when opening the mouth.

I'm targeting this money on the Mercury surgery budget. Even if we don't achieve this lofty goal, every donation will have an impact on our poor guy getting the help he needs and will be greatly appreciated.