The story of Gibbs the Brave

Patient details

Name: Gibbs
Age: 15 years old
Breed: Domestic Shorthair
Gender: Male

Gibbs is a regular at VSS/CSS and always boosts morale on every visit.

Despite facing numerous health challenges, his bravery and resilience have made him a true celebrity at the clinic. He is a beautiful, remarkable old man who continues to inspire us all.

We take great pride in being part of his ongoing care, ensuring he lives as healthy and comfortably as possible.

Patient history

June – July 2022

Gibbs first visited CSS with a history of osteoarthritis and diabetes following episodes of syncope. After assessments by our internal medicine, cardiology and ophthalmology teams, he was diagnosed with pancreatitis, a heart conduction disorder and cataracts.

March 2023

To manage his heart condition, Gibbs received a cardiac pacemaker, which helped regulate his abnormal heart rhythms.

July 2023

Gibbs developed uveitis and a corneal ulcer, which were managed carefully given his complex medical history and ongoing ocular challenges.

November 2023

During routine investigations, an ultrasound revealed a mass on his adrenal gland, which was later surgically removed.

January 2024

Gibbs experienced abnormal urinary patterns and required multiple catheterisations, leading to a diagnosis of bladder atony. To manage this condition long-term, he underwent surgery to place a cystostomy tube.

February 2024

Gibbs underwent two surgeries: an adrenalectomy to remove the adrenal mass and a cystostomy tube placement to address ongoing bladder atony. He also developed hypertension, requiring additional medical management.

April 2024

While boarding with us over Easter, Gibbs required intensive care, including insulin injections, oral medications, medicated eye drops and regular draining of his bladder via the cystostomy port.

May 2024
Gibbs’ cystostomy tube was removed after he began voluntarily urinating again, marking a significant improvement in his condition.

Are you worried about your cat’s health?

If you are concerned about your cat, please reach out to our friendly team. Call us on 1300 228 377 or fill out the contact form below. In an emergency, please contact your local vet.

For vets – to refer a patient or book a telehealth consultation, please call us on 1300 228 377, book through the portal or fill in the form.

Patient Stories

Our commitment to feline health is best seen in the stories of the cats we’ve had the privilege of treating. These journeys highlight the dedication, expertise and compassion that drive us.

Each patient faced unique challenges, and it was our honour to offer high-quality care and help them regain strength and happiness. We value the deep bonds with cats and their owners, knowing the difference we make in their lives.

See All Stories

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Toffee Survives Tick Paralysis

Toffee faced a frightening battle with tick paralysis and aspiration pneumonia, she was rushed to AES when her owners noticed her vomiting, breathing difficulties and trouble walking.

JJ & the Lily – a close call

Mischievous JJ had a close call when he ingested part of a lily—an extremely toxic plant for cats. Thanks to the quick actions of his owner, Sophie, a VSS vet nurse, JJ made a full recovery.

Han’s Hip Fracture Surgery

Han presented after limping on his hind leg for two weeks following an accident at home. An X-ray revealed a fractured growth plate in his hip, requiring surgery to repair the injury.

Coco and Kidney Troubles

Coco stayed with us at CSS while recovering from a nephrectomy (the surgical kidney removal). After months of unsuccessful treatment for a ureteral obstruction, this became necessary.

Contacting Us

Pet Owners
If you would like to talk about treatment for your cat, call us on 1300 228 377 or fill in the form.
In an emergency, please contact your local vet.

Vets and Nurses
To refer a patient or book a telehealth consultation please call us on 1300 228 377, book through the portal or fill in the form. For advice calls, please see the guidelines here.

1300 228 377

1-15 Lexington Rd,
Underwood, QLD, AU, 4119

Monday-Friday: 8 am-6 pm
Saturday/Sunday - Closed