Frostbite Nearly Claimed Her Life, But This Cat’s Recovery Will Leave You Speechless

When a passing driver found a gray feline in the snow in Novokuznetsk, Siberia, little did they know that this cat would soon become a symbol of resilience and hope.

Dymka, which means “mist” in Russian, had suffered severe frostbite on her paws, ears, and tail.

The 4-year-old cat was brought to a clinic in Novosibirsk, where veterinarian Sergei Gorshkov had to make a tough decision.

A Life-Changing Amputation

To save Dymka’s life, Gorshkov had to amputate her damaged extremities.

Frostbite, a common problem for cats during the harsh Siberian winters, had taken its toll on Dymka.

The clinic typically treats five to seven cats with frostbitten paws, ears, and noses each year. But Dymka’s case was particularly severe.

Collaboration Leads to a Breakthrough

Determined to give Dymka a second chance at life, Gorshkov and his colleagues collaborated with researchers from Tomsk Polytechnic University (TPU) to create a set of prosthetics for the cat.

Using CT scans of Dymka’s legs, the scientists 3D printed titanium rods that would be inserted and fused into her leg bones.

Titanium Paws Give Dymka a New Lease on Life

In July 2019, Dymka received her prosthetic implants – first in her front legs and then in her hind legs.

The titanium rods were coated with calcium phosphate to help mount the implants and minimize the risk of infection and rejection.

Just seven months after the surgery, Dymka was already enjoying her new lease on life.

A Video That Will Melt Your Heart

A video shared by the veterinary clinic in December 2019 shows Dymka stretching, walking around the examination room, and playfully interacting with a blanket.

The close-up shots of her titanium “feet” reveal the incredible work done by the veterinarians and researchers.

Dymka’s Legacy

Dymka is now the second cat in the world to have received four metal prosthetics, following in the footsteps of Ryzhik, another cat who underwent a similar procedure at the same clinic in 2016.

Her story is a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and the unwavering dedication of those who refuse to give up on animals in need.