MARGARET Green Animal Rescue in Tavistock is appealing for help to fund a life-saving operation for one of their kittens.

Precious the kitten was born with a rare chest deformity. Now she needs an urgent operation to save her life.

Precious was born at the centre in September after her mother Poppy was handed into the rescue centre. At three weeks of age, staff noticed a difference between Precious and her siblings. Precious’ breathing was rapid and she did not have the stamina that her two sisters had.

Precious was diagnosed with pectus excavatum, a deformity which is a congenital defect.  Pectus excavatum is a Latin phrase that literally means ‘sunken chest’ or ‘hollow chest’.  The condition occurs when the central chest bone, the sternum, and ribs grow in an unnatural way, creating a significant indentation in the kitten’s chest.

The indentation caused by this deformity can lead to a host of health issues, and without urgent care, the future looks bleak for this little kitten. Her only option is a life-saving operation.

Precious is visiting Eastcott Veterinary Clinic in Swindon which has performed this type of surgery in the past.

Surgery is the only option and it will cost in the region of £800 but Precious’ veterinary care will total more than £1,000 overall.

Margaret Green Foundation is appealing for donations towards Precious’ surgery. Call 01822 810215 if you can help or visit the charity’s dedicated Just Giving page.

Any amount, however small or large, will be gratefully received.

l Precious is pictured below.