World's first bionic cat dies in Jersey aged 18 after 'paving the way for animals globally'
Oscar from Jersey underwent pioneering surgery in 2009 after both of his rear paws were chopped off by a combine harvester.
With severe injuries and significant blood loss, his owners were concerned he may not survive but he was treated on island before being flown to Surrey.
The operation by renowned vet Noel Fitzpatrick was the first time an animal had been fitted with two bionic leg implants and made international headlines, as well as setting two Guinness World Records.
Oscar's journey was followed on TV, including in the popular Supervet series, and he defied by odds by living for a further 15 years.
Noel says the operation revolutionised the treatment of animals.
He explains: "The main consideration I had going into it was ethics. Was it the right thing to do for Oscar?
"I felt apprehensive but now it's something that I do relatively frequently and it's really important that we move medicine forward for the benefit of all animals.
"He truly has paved the way for animals globally to have this kind of technology in their moment of need.
"Without him, numerous animals would not have limbs. Without him, numerous animals would not have light. And without him, we wouldn't have had that joy in our hearts."
Owner Kate Nolan adds: "We were a bit hesitant when we first did it because obviously Oscar didn't have a say in the treatment.
"We did think, 'Would it be kinder to let him go?' but the fact that he's had a really full, happy and content life, and his legacy lives on through so many other animals, is really wonderful.
"We didn't know if they would last and we're just so pleased that he had this extraordinary life.
"He never gave up and was really resilient. He was diagnosed with lymphoma about three years ago, so he's just an extraordinary cat."
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