Eastern Screech-owl #16-2185

Species Name (EN): 
Species Name (LA): 
Admission Date: 
September 28, 2016
Location of Rescue: 
Rockbridge County
Cause of Admission / Condition: 
Cat Attack
Prognosis: 
Outcome: 
Patient Status: 
Patient Archive

On September 28, an Eastern Screech-owl was rescued in Rockbridge County after being attacked by a cat. Free-roaming cats attack a variety of wild animals, including small mammals,snakes, amphibians, songbirds, and occasionally small raptors. Cat attack victims have a low chance of survival, even if they receive medical treatment quickly.

During the initial exam, the veterinary team did not identify any major physical abnormalities on owl #16-2185; however, an eye exam showed that the owl had inflammation in the left eye, along with a punctured cornea. The eye was severely injured and would likely need to be eviscerated (surgically removed).

The owl was given antibiotics and anti-microbials to prevent infection from the cat attack -- cats can easily pass on bacteria from their mouth's through puncture wounds. Though the owl was observed being attacked by a cat, it's possible the bird was already weak or sick, which allowed the cat to easily attack and injure the owl. The veterinary team suspected an underlying disease, illness, or injury that could not be identified initially.

On October 2, Dr. Peach performed surgery to remove the owl's left eye. Surgery was uncomplicated, but the owl had a difficult recovery from anesthesia and was unable to breathe on its own. Less than an hour after surgery was completed, the owl went into cardiac arrest and could not be revived.
 

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