Rocky’s surgery is covered. He still needs safe care.

Rocky is a 5-year-old cat who has spent his entire life outdoors in one Daly City neighborhood. The people who feed him have watched over him from a distance, but he has never trusted anyone enough to let them get close.

In June, they saw that he was badly injured. One eye was closed and bleeding, and his neck had a deep wound that looked as though a piece had been torn away. He may have been attacked by a coyote or another animal.

Several people tried to catch Rocky so he could receive medical care, but despite his injuries, he kept escaping. Then he disappeared. For a couple weeks, no one saw him, and everyone feared the worst.

When Rocky was finally spotted again, volunteers were given another chance to help him. Elaine, a local animal lover who had also been trying to reach him, ultimately humanely trapped him and brought him safely to a veterinary hospital. She named him Rocky because he has already endured such a rough life.

Rocky is safe now, and his surgery is done. One severely infected eye had to be removed, and his neck wound was thoroughly cleaned and surgically closed with stitches. Rocky made it through surgery, and now the focus is helping him recover without untreated pain. His remaining eye is being closely monitored to make sure it stays healthy and doesn't develop an infection of its own.

Right now, Rocky is resting, eating well, and getting used to having people care for him for the first time in his life.

Animal Union says Rocky is doing great so far. His scar is large, but his remaining eye appears to be working, and it will keep being watched closely while he heals.

Supporters have raised $2,356 for Rocky so far. That covers the $2,124.75 surgery and hospital bill. The remaining balance, and any future donations marked for Rocky, will go toward his food and future medical care.

Rocky was underweight and is finally eating a lot: about four cans of Friskies wet food each day, plus dry food. He should stay on a diet that includes daily wet food as he recovers.

Rocky will stay in Animal Union care. Returning him to the neighborhood where he lived is not safe with his limited vision, and he is not suited for indoor life. Animal Union is planning a fully enclosed outdoor catio so Rocky can spend time outside without being exposed to traffic, predators, or another injury.

Animal Union is also building a safe haven for injured feral cats who cannot safely be released back outside. Donations for Rocky help support the care that keeps him safe now and helps cats like him have somewhere protected to live.

Donations can be made directly to theau.org, the nonprofit caring for Rocky. If your payment method gives you a comment or memo field, please write “Rocky.”