A TEENAGER has launched a fundraising appeal to help pay for life-saving treatment for his “best friend” – his pet cat called Bean.

Jayden Boundy, 19, from St Austell, says he is facing a large vets’ bill after Bean became seriously ill.

Jayden, who finished college at the beginning of the month and is now working part-time as a chef/cook, said: “Bean is almost three years old. I’ve had him ever since he was just nine weeks old, a tiny, playful kitten who immediately stole my heart.

“From that very first night, he’s slept curled up by my side, every single night, bringing so much comfort and joy into my life. He’s not just a pet, he’s my best friend.”

Bean showed signs of being unwell and had to be taken to the vets.

Jayden said: “The vet confirmed he had a severe upper respiratory infection, but also discovered something more alarming: there’s significant pressure behind his right eye that could be caused by a painful abscess or severe inflammation.

“I was given three difficult options: try antibiotics at home (which was risky given he wasn’t eating), put him down or admit him for intensive, life-saving care.

“The choice was agonising, but there was no doubt in my mind. Bean is my world, and I had to fight for him. I chose for him to stay at the vets.

“However, this critical care comes with an overwhelming cost. We’ve been given an estimate that could reach £2,000, possibly more. This is a sum that, as much as I love him, I simply don’t have available .”

Jayden has launched an appeal on GoFundMe – www.gofundme/f/BeansVetCare

He said: “Every single pound will go directly towards Bean's vet bills, giving him the chance he deserves.”

So far more than £1,160 has been donated