The sight of a much-loved cat has been restored at a Cumbrian veterinary hospital using ‘pioneering surgery’ that is only performed at a handful of centres in the world.

The ‘highly complex’ procedure was carried out by Veterinary Vision in Penrith on two-year-old Neo, a British shorthaired cat.

The operation involved reattaching a torn retina in his left eye as well as removing a cataract and inserting an artificial lens to restore his sight.

When the retina is torn it cannot self-reattach and Veterinary Vision is one of very few centres worldwide that has the ability to surgically reattach the tissue.

News and Star: Neo's eye before the surgeryNeo's eye before the surgery (Image: Supplied)Such was the success of the operation, that Neo, who is owned by Lisa King and her husband Jonathan from Knaresborough in North Yorkshire, is reported to be back on rodent patrol in his garden and chasing flies through the air with his brother.

Neo was referred to the team in Penrith by James Rushton, head of ophthalmology at Paragon Veterinary Referrals in Wakefield.

 

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“James and his team had identified that Neo had lost sight from his left eye due to a torn retina,” said Chris Dixon, veterinary ophthalmologist and clinical director at Veterinary Vision

“The surgery was complex and involved the removal of the cataract from the left lens prior to reattaching the retina.

“A combination of specialised procedures held the retina in place while the torn edge was sealed with a laser.

“Neo’s recovery was excellent, and Lisa and her husband Jonathan were extremely diligent with his post-operative care.”

Owner Lisa said: “Neo was diagnosed with eye issues at six to seven months of age and has been monitored every six months.

“It was at a routine review that we were advised he had detached his left retina and would go blind in that eye if nothing was done.

“The referral process was simple and seamless, while the staff were so helpful and friendly and you could tell the care and attention they took with Neo.

“His quality of life has been saved by the skill and dedication of Veterinary Vision.”Veterinary Vision is equipped for all types of ocular surgery with 11 veterinary ophthalmologists offering a vast range of experience and knowledge in small animal, and equine eye conditions.