When Leah Starr noticed her 8-year-old cat, Fergus, had lost his appetite and was vomiting frequently, she knew something was wrong. A visit to his primary care veterinarian revealed an abdominal mass, leading to a referral to UW Veterinary Care (UWVC) in January 2025.
Further testing confirmed a diagnosis of large cell gastrointestinal lymphoma as well as significant anemia. The team at UWVC was able to help arrange for an immediate blood transfusion at a partner facility while also helping Starr, who was understandably distressed, consider next steps. Learning about the availability of financial support from Petco Love – and given the seriousness of Fergus’ condition – helped Starr make the decision to proceed with UW-Madison’s CHOP-25 protocol, the most aggressive chemotherapy option available for feline lymphoma.
“Living on a single income made it challenging for his owner to afford, so it was a significant relief for her to have Petco Love funds available to ensure Fergus got the best care possible,” says Dr. Christen Montesanto, an oncology resident at UWVC.
Fergus has now completed two full cycles of treatment and continues to respond well. He has handled chemotherapy remarkably, steadily gaining weight, maintaining a healthy appetite, and staying active and playful at home. With a positive prognosis, his progress offers hope to Starr and other pet owners navigating similar challenges.
“Having a pet receive a cancer diagnosis is extremely difficult on its own, all cost considerations aside,” says Montesanto. “The relief we see when our clients learn that there is an option for financial support thanks to Petco Love is a wonderful gift to be able to share.”
About the UW-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine
The UW School of Veterinary Medicine provides outstanding programs in veterinary medical education, research, clinical practice, and service that enhance the health and welfare of both animals and people and contribute to the economic well-being of the state of Wisconsin. Opened in 1983, the school quickly earned a reputation as one of the leading schools of veterinary medicine in America. The SVM offers an unmatched educational experience for the next generation of trusted veterinarians; world-class research, technology, and clinical trials; and leading-edge, compassionate clinical care at our teaching hospital, UW Veterinary Cares. For more information, visit www.vetmed.wisc.edu.
About Petco Love
Petco Love started in 1999 as the Petco Foundation, formalizing Petco’s longstanding commitment to animal welfare. Millions of pet lives saved later, we’ve never once wavered from our mission: To harness the power of love to make communities and pet families closer, stronger, and healthier. For more information, visit https://petcolove.org/.
For more information contact:
Maggie Baum, Communications Director
UW-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine
608.438.2814 or mmbaum@wisc.edu