Tater the Bobcat Fundraiser 2025

Update May 31, 2025 @ 2:40pm: With heavy hearts, we share that Tater was humanely euthanized last night.

He developed a pneumothorax—air trapped in the chest cavity—which can occur spontaneously and without warning. Despite our team’s best efforts, we were unable to stop the progression, and his ability to breathe continued to decline. After exhausting all options, it became clear that allowing him to continue would only lead to suffering.

Even in his final moments, Tater fought with everything he had. We’ve never witnessed an animal show such strength and determination to stay. His courage deeply moved every member of our team and all who followed his journey.

Let Tater’s legacy be a powerful reminder: never give up, keep fighting to make a difference, love fiercely, and cherish those around you.

Rest peacefully, sweet Tater. You were—and always will be—so deeply loved.

Tater came to us as a newborn on May 12th, found all alone in a remote area. Just two days into care, he began having trouble urinating and required urgent medical intervention. Despite multiple attempts, a urinary catheter couldn't be placed. Ultimately, Tater underwent a 2.5-hour surgery performed by Dr. Wolf, Dr. Vizcarra, and Dr. Orduna—two recent graduates of Texas Tech University School of Veterinary Medicine. The procedure involved marsupializing his bladder, creating an external opening in the abdominal wall to allow urine to flow, giving his body time to heal until his urethra can be repaired.

Through it all, Tater has remained incredibly strong. He’s continued to eat and show us he’s not giving up—and neither are we. As long as he keeps fighting, we’ll keep fighting right alongside him.

It’s still too early to know whether he’ll be able to return to the wild, but one thing’s for sure: Tater is one tough kitten, and we are so grateful for the incredible veterinary team and all of you supporting his journey.