Shelter Cat Still in Need of Donations for Sight

The isn't even a third of the way to gathering funds necessary for a homeless cat named Smudge to get eye surgery, according to Animal Control Officer Vivian Cooper.

Smudge has bilateral juvenile cataracts in both of her eyes, impeding her ability to see, and the city's Animal Welfare Committee (AWC) is hoping to raise the $3,200 to $3,500 needed for the cataract removal and artificial lens transplant.

The price tag includes the surgery, medications and several follow-up appointments.

Cooper estimated that so far, almost $1,000 has been raised through straight donations and events organized by the AWC, like a at the College Park farmers market.

As Patch reported back in June, Cooper noticed a blue reflection in Smudge's eyes when she picked her up in College Park. She correctly assumed that the stray had bilateral juvenile cataracts.

Observing Smudge at the animal shelter where she is being held, she is skittish and nervous. This is because all she can really see are when objects are moving toward her, Cooper said.

Though the AWC and Cooper are currently considering Animal Eye Care in Annapolis for the surgery, they also plan to contact veterinary schools to see if there is a cheaper price for the procedure.

Anyone who would like to donate should contact Cooper at 240-375-3165. .

This story has been corrected. In an earlier version of this story, we incorrectly identified Smudge's gender and the estimated amount of the surgery. We regret the error.