Meet Bison – From Desperation to Hope, Thanks to You

| March 19, 2025

At Toronto Humane Society, every animal’s story is unique, but Bison’s journey is one of extraordinary strength and perseverance. His young life has been marked by tremendous hardship, but also by the possibility of survival, thanks to compassionate supporters like you. 

Bison first arrived at the shelter as a tiny, frightened, three-month-old kitten, part of a stray litter. After some time, he was adopted into a loving home, but a year later, Bison was returned to us—not due to behavioral issues, but because of something far more heartbreaking: a fatal disease. 

A Grim Diagnosis

When Bison was brought back to Toronto Humane Society, he was in bad shape. He had started losing weight rapidly, wasn’t eating, and appeared to be in severe discomfort. A veterinary examination revealed a devastating diagnosis: Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP), a once fatal disease that presents with a variety of symptoms. Bison’s case was no exception. His eyes were inflamed, his vision impaired, and he had developed a serious heart murmur. He was severely underweight, dehydrated, and struggling to survive. 

But despite all of these challenges, there was still hope. 

Hope Through Treatment

Advancements in veterinary medicine have made it possible to treat FIP. A specialized medication now exists, providing a real chance at recovery for animals like Bison—but the treatment is costly, requiring weeks of care and expensive medication. 

Thanks to supporters like you, Bison’s story didn’t end with a grim diagnosis. He was placed into a loving foster home, where he began his long road to recovery. Although nervous at first, he quickly adapted to his new surroundings, playing with toys, eating heartily, and seeking affection from his foster family. 

Bison’s Incredible Progress

With continued treatment, Bison’s condition has improved dramatically. His once-infected eyes are healing, his heart murmur is less severe, and his appetite has returned. He now enjoys gazing out of windows, playing with his toys, and basking in the affection of his foster family. His health continues to improve each day. 

But Bison’s journey is not over. His treatment for FIP must continue if he’s to have a future. The medication he requires is expensive, and we need your help to ensure that Bison, and other animals like him, have the opportunity to live full, happy lives. 

Your Support Makes a Difference

Bison’s treatment is the first FIP treatment case at Toronto Humane Society—a true milestone in our work. But there are many more animals who, like Bison, need urgent medical care and support to survive. 

Your donations not only help cover the cost of lifesaving treatments, but also support our research programs, driving advancements in animal welfare and veterinary medicine. 

Will you help more animals like Bison get the care they need?