Hari was abandoned as a young cat on the streets of Dubai. After life-saving surgery, he was rescued and brought to the UK in 2020, where he found his forever home. Alongside his brother Raffi, who was also rescued from Dubai, Hari is known for his adventurous nature. The pair are often seen striding out on countryside walks like a miniature lion pride.
In late 2024, Hari developed Horner’s Syndrome and later ongoing respiratory problems. Investigations in July 2025 revealed something far more serious: an air rifle pellet lodged deep in his nasal passages. Sadly, air rifle injuries in cats are more common than many people realise, and can cause severe, life-changing damage.
Hari was referred to Langford Vets in August 2025, where Dr Lee Meakin, Tom Marks and Professor Sorrel Langley-Hobbs carried out delicate surgery to remove the pellet.
The pellet was firmly lodged within the nasal cavity, an area completely encased in bone. Surgeons performed a rhinotomy - carefully removing a small section of bone to access and remove the pellet safely. The surgery went very well and Hari recovered smoothly.
Hari returned home the following day, finally able to breathe freely again. He still has sneezing fits and some restricted breathing, but he is much happier now the pellet has been removed. His resilience, alongside the dedication of his owners and the expertise of Langford’s team, has given him a new lease of life.
Hari’s story highlights both the strength of our pets and an issue that is sadly more common than many imagine.
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