Cinder the cat aka ‘Cinder Block’ needed to make some big changes in her life. 10 pounds of them to be exact. And thanks to her local vet, she’s on the road to a long and healthy life!
We believe in you Cinder
When an obese older cat with arthritis was surrendered to the Northshore Veterinary Hospital in Bellingham, WA, the staff knew just what to do. Thanks to the very patient rehab team in the hydrotherapy center, Cinder is learning how to use an underwater treadmill to burn off the pounds painlessly.
But it didn’t start out easy! At first, the vet techs let her get used to the strange new environment. Cinder was not a fan! In her first viral video you can see Cinder standing in the far back corner of the chamber, meowing her displeasure, with just one of her li’l gray feet even on the treadmill. You can hear the patient vet tech whispering sweet nothings to Cinder and offering her encouragement.
Go Cinder go!
Kitty crunches
In the next video, more water has been added to help Cinder get used to the exercise. Each practice, more water will be added until Cinder is comfortable with water up to her neck. The water’s bouyancy will help relieve some of the pressure on Cinder’s joints as she walks on the treadmill, making this a painless way to get her daily exercise.
Snack break
In addition to the aqua treadmill, Northshore is using a prescription weight-loss food to help Cinder shed the flab without missing any of the important nutrients she needs to get fit and strong.
Rest days are the best days
If you’d like to contribute to Cinder’s care and help Northshore care for more animals in need, you can contribute to their Good Samaritan fund here.
Sleepytime
Cinder’s life-changing story has only just begun! Follow Northshore Veterinary Hospital on Facebook to follow her progress! We will continue to update her story here as often as we can.
You can also follow Cinder-block’s progress on Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube.