Panda the cat has had a rough life as a stray cat in Greece. He is one of millions of cats that roam the streets in search of food and shelter. After surviving for nine years on his own in a stray colony, a kindhearted couple who feeds and looks after the cats noticed that Panda had lost his appetite.

They contacted a local shelter, Let's Be S.M.A.R.T., to help the senior fella. Panda is FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus) positive and according to RSPCA cats with FIV may be more prone to common diseases. "An FIV positive cat may be more prone to chronic respiratory infections, skin problems, mouth inflammation and certain types of tumours, but there's no definitive rule."

Photo: Let's Be S.M.A.R.T.

Panda has clearly fought with other cats for resources and is likely how he contracted FIV. RSPCA states, "FIV is most commonly seen in unneutered male cats who've been fighting for territory. It's spread by biting and body fluids and doesn't spread in the environment."

Photo: © Let's Be S.M.A.R.T.

The sweet boy underwent tests to figure out why he was so sick and suffering from lack of appetite, mouth inflammation and bloody stools. One of the causes is a blood parasite, which he is being treated for.

Photo: © Let's Be S.M.A.R.T.

While he was being examined by a vet, they found a mass in his intestines that is being tested to see if it is cancerous. He may need surgery to remove the mass depending on the results of the tests.

Panda needs your help. With further treatment, he'll have the chance to heal and live a normal life, but his treatments could take several months.

Photo: © Let's Be S.M.A.R.T.

In late 2023, Greater Good Charities was approached by groups working in the city of Xanthi, Northern Greece, to assist in the support of over 600 animals seeking out an existence in and around a municipal rubbish site. Since then, working alongside the Animal Rescue Site and community partners, they have provided food, specialist medical care, funded high quality spay-neuter services and supported foster and adoption for dozens of pets.

Thanks to the generosity of donors like you, Greater Good Charities and The Animal Rescue Site are in the process of deepening our commitment to the pets of Xanthi, ensuring every animal has the support it needs. We are also expanding our reach to several new areas within Greece, supporting both cats and dogs in need.

Photo: © Let's Be S.M.A.R.T.

Panda is just one of the many pets we're helping in Greece, but we can't cover his ongoing care without your support. Help us meet our goal of $4,000 for Panda and pets like him.