I took my Lily in to get bloodwork done as I plan on doing for Max and Daphne as well (hindsight is always 20/20 I guess.) Lily's BUN came back high, but the vet said that my timing couldn't have been more perfect because it's the very beginning. I have read about it and he compassionately confirmed that it will be terminal but told me I may have years left, optimally. I have switched to prescription food and give it to them all since Lily and Daphne are 12 and Max is 10. I am administering fluids about once a week give/take a few days (150-200 mLs.) I know that many people here have done this and am wondering if you have any advice on what to watch for or what to do/not do. I hate that I have to wait for signs of dehydration since damage is done by then, but know that overhydrating is hard on her kidneys too.

I love on them all as much as possible and fear the terrible inevitable. I had a terrible dream two nights ago that Lily had died, that I had seen her lifeless and that I was at home swallowed up in her absence. When I awoke, I was sooooooo relieved that it wasn't real. I looked down at her grooming by my legs and she stopped, looked at me as if to ask, "What?" and then went back to her bath. Thanks for any replies.

Sarah (Lily's mama too )

OMG Oliver's Mama
I am sorry to hear of your news on Lily. I'm sure you are giving her the best care you can. Just concentrait on the remaining time you have left with her and enjoy to the fullest. I wish with Sissycat I somehow would have known what was coming. I would have spent so much more time with her and could have said goodbye.. Hopefully you will have many more years with her. Sending you both hope, hugs, and prayers!!!!!

Sissycat

"kim"

Thank you so much for your support and well-wishes. The weekend I found out I was a mess, but I kept remembering LoveThem said once to me to not grieve while they are still here, so I am aiming for the longest time I can get.

Every night she howls and then brings me one of three "gifts" in bed, my favorite is the crown because it is her favorite toy. Every time, I think about how much I love that and have the gnawing anticipation in the back of my mind that someday, no matter how long away it is, I won't have that anymore. It's as if once you realize that your time is limited, it's impossible to get enough of it. I was thinking heavily about how much I love her right before the nightmare. And last weekend, my sister had a scare that put me literally in the same room of the emergency hopital with the same vet so I suffered some setbacks that weekend thinking of Oliver. You never forget the events and details up to your loss, but reliving it all watching my sister cry and say the exact same things that I did was excruciating.

Sarah (Oliver and Lily's mama )

A perspective to offer: Keep in mind we are all terminal, and we can all choose to celebrate the time we have left. The thing that has changed, really, is that you now know how she will likely die, and it will be sooner than you'd hoped. Not minimizing the impact the disease will eventually take on her body, but she'll show you a way to not have it affect your spirit in the same way. Of course, there is grief around losing her robust health.

As for length of time, who's to say? Tinsica was diagnosed at 14, and died at 18-1/2, without sub Q fluids or particular change in diet. Her sister, who had never lived without Tin, was diagnosed 4 months later, and died 7 months after that, with sub Q fluids and new food (both of which she hated). I think a lot of it depends on how much living they have left to do. Adapting to life without her sister was hard on Cheddar, so she exited early. Tinsica loved me so dang much she stayed all kinds of extra time.

If the vet is using the "Y" word (years), that's wonderful. Almost every time estimation a vet has given me was conservative by a factor of two, sometimes three. Because you're able to make the dietary changes so early, it stands to every reason that you're going to be managing the "C" part of CRF. With both cats, I didn't see a whole lot of decline until the final quarter, and then they starter looking weaker and less interested in things. When it does eventually come time, she'll let you know. Until then, it sounds like you have lots of time with her precious self. ~K

Yes, I try to keep that perspective, each day passes is one less for everyone. And hopefully, with as persistent as she can be with getting on the table and following me around for petting, she will have the physical stamina to match. Thank you for your reply, I desperately want many years with my babies. Here she is with Oliver (and the crown.) They were buddies from the beginning as you can see with the one of them as kittens.

I am in a similar boat as you. My persian was just diagnosed with Polycystic kidney disease which will lead to CRF very soon. I am terrified, but thankfully I have a wonderful vet. The worst part is not knowing how much time you have left. It could be a couple of years or a couple of weeks. My cat is currently at the vet getting an IV, and I am absolutely miserable without him. I cannot imagine what I will do when he is not there anymore. People keep saying, "oh, just go get another persian, it'll make you feel better." But there is no replacing your cat, and that idea makes me sick. I am so sorry that people have to go through this. Sometimes life doesn't seem to be fair. There are so many jerks in this world that go through life with little or no consequences, and yet these wonderful innocent cats who never do anything wrong have to suffer with this disease. It isn't right. I hope that your cat has alot of good time left with you. Just love her up as much as you can, that is all that I can do, and hope for the very best. Maybe our cats were just so wonderful that God wanted them back for Himself. I don't know, and that doesn't really help either. My vet told me to stay away from the prescription diets that you can buy. She is going to give me recipes tomorrow for a homemade diet which she says will be better than the prescripton stuff. When I get them, I will post them.

[quote homemade diet which she says will be better than the prescripton stuff. When I get them, I will post them.[/quote]

Thank you! Eager to see. When I smell most canned and some dry food, you can just tell it's chemical-ly and not healthy. ~Kim

Dear Sarah:

The pictures you posted of Oliver and Lily are absolutely precious -- Thank you for posting them !



Always cherish that specific special moment in time, where she brings you one of her much loved gifts .
I know that you do, but our minds tend to carry us away to 'that date in the future' - which isn't even here yet.
Yesterday is gone AND tomorrow is not yet here ...... We only have today -- and, that's where our hearts and minds must stay.
My mind will float away to future dates as well - I've got to reel myself back in .

I don't know much about CRF, but here is a website that may be informative: http://www.felinecrf.com/

Here are some other links that might come in handy -- cat health information, as well as recommended diets.


Dr. Elizabeth Hodgkins has a site, http://www.yourdiabeticcat.com/ which is fantastic, for diabetic cats, but her information concerning diet is for ALL cats.

This link, http://www.yourdiabeticcat.com/diet.html , talks about a cat's diet, (the good & the bad), which should be read by all who are concerned about what they are feeding their cat.

Dr. Hodgkins book, "Your Cat", http://www.amazon.com/Your-Cat-Simple-Secr...r/dp/0312358016, is a must have!

Here is another link to some wonderful information from veterinarian, Dr. Lisa Pierson, http://www.catinfo.org/ .

Keeping you and those you love in my prayers,

Denise

Hi, I got your msg and will PM you shortly. I have read your past threads and know you have been to Hell's gate and back. It takes a very special person to go to the lengths you do, your cats are incredibly lucky to have a mama that does. Incidentally, that's funny that not only do you have a cat named Lily, but Oliver's nickname was Rasta. Oh, and my mom's name is JoAnn.



Yes, it never seems like enough time does it? I was just thinking less than two hours ago that Oliver was only 12 and that's so YOUNG. I hate that they don't have longer lifetimes, I used to grumble when cleaning the box that it was the worst part of having kitties, my how I was wrong. She seems to be very much herself, I just hate always looking for something wrong, which started after Oliver died, before she was diagnosed. I suppose he saved her life as I would have gone on in my happy little life not knowing her kidneys were being damaged. They always got along so well, the night before he died, she tried to get at his little nest and I kept her away so he could rest. I'm regretting that now.

I look forward to the recipe. She has NEVER been a finicky cat, always a little piggy.

Best wishes to you and your little one, I will keep you in my prayers.



Thank you for the info, I will be looking into it when I finish posting here. I try really hard to not think too far into the future, I may have years left and would hate to squander them fearing the end. It's really hard, after Oliver died it's like that is the default thinking and I have to manually change it every single time. I do every day drink up the moment she brings gifts...they all have been very lovey dovey since May. Her favorite used to be a felt firetruck that when she'd run up and down the hall with it, it sounded just like she was making a firetruck wail. It was hilarious. She sticks her toungue out all the time, I have lots of pictures but they are larger than 800 KB. (Tips on shrinking them that would work would bring you a smile, guaranteed.)

Sarah

Hi, Sarah: I am sorry to hear about Lily's tests. As far as giving fluids...there are some good hints in this topic:

http://lightning-strike.com/forum/index.ph...amp;#entry36161

If I didn't do the Link right...it is in the D&D section, page 2, called So Sad! Loss of my friend by Victoria.

Victoria has been giving fluids to her dog Goose and her baby is still with her right now. But in the 1/31/08 posts and the 2/1/08 posts....she got some hints about giving fluids having to do with the skin showing when they are hydrated and found out the vet needed to adjust the fluids down. Hope these hints help on what to look for.

Also I see so many here have given you links to many sites with information about CRF. Whenever I confront something I have not seen before...I do read everything I can find on it, especially on the Internet. I usually Google some words and read what is being said...especially what to look for, etc.

Of course, your best source will be your vet as far as asking questions about anything that comes into your mind. The more you know...the less unnecessary fear and anticipation you will have. You don't need that.

Hugs to you and a special one to Lily....I have read positive things about added years of quality and I do wish with all my heart that you and Lily have that.

She is bringing you presents and feels okay. That is wonderful and positive. They live in the moment and don't have the stress of anticipation or questions as we do. I guess we have to try and join them in the moment..cause they are happy and loving and that is the best gift we can have...so we have to enjoy it.

If you do a search here in the forum using the word CRF and say to search posts..not topics...you will find lots of information also. Some blood test BUN levels only required temporary hydration. Things like that.

You said: I try really hard to not think too far into the future, I may have years left and would hate to squander them fearing the end.

Instead...use the time to become as familiar as you can about Lily's condition. What others have done and what has helped...any information just may hold the key to additional time...we never know enough and sometimes it seems we know more than some vets because we research a lot. This kind of positive action keeps you busy and feeling more knowledgeable kind of helps feel more in control of what is happening. The best information will be what HAS ACTUALLY WORKED and helped in whatever way it did.

But on a daily basis...just enjoy her, love her, take pictures (the ones you have posted are wonderful)..and really enjoy each day, each month, each year.

By finding out as much as you can about her condition.....leads to being more aware of any small signs in the future to notice and/or report to your vet. Other than that....you are doing the best things she needs and she seems to be a happy camper so as you quoted me before about not grieving while she is here...still is a good course of action to follow.
Spend the time enjoying her and her you and other than checking things out with the vet when you need to, you are doing everything a loving Mom does and believe me, Lily knows you love her and she loves you BIGTIME too!

Hugs, Sarah...and a special hug and kiss to Lily. She is a sweetheart.

Hi Sarah,

Sorry to hear of Lily's recent diagnosis. Anytime we get unwelcome news about one we love it is so sad. The love we share with our furry kids is like no other. We can only love them and give the best kind of care possible while they are with us. There is a unique plan in store for each and every one of us.

Each day you have with Lily is a special gift to savor and enjoy mutually. When tomorrow comes, today will be but a memory. So take care of today and the tomorrows will take care of themselves.

Much love with hugs,
Beth

Greetings Beth, Joanne and Judy

Thanks for your replies, it keeps me on my toes and busy learning which only benefits. I do love everyday with them. I have lots to read about, but feel comfortable that I have learned alot. Time will tell, I would rather over&%^yze than underestimate. I've been reading all the info but have lots more to go.



Hi Joanne, you got a sign, how awesome! I have only gotten a few obvious ones and a couple that may or may not have been (Max sounding like him in another room when Oliver had a very distinct meow, etc.) Isn't it bizarre how you can be chugging along and bam, you're right back in the middle? Sometimes when I think about him being gone, I still can't believe it. Just today at work I was looking at his picture and could feel and smell his cheek fur. I know I'll get used to it over the years, but I'll never like it. It's nice too that there is someone else that knew and loved your kitties as much, it's sad to me that I and I alone know...Once my friend said, he didn't just love you, he hearted you. So at least others did notice his

Already you are stronger than I, if I lost 3 in so short a time, I would be in very, VERY bad shape. One has already brought me to my knees. I do have regrets about my choice in vets past. Now I know better, you have to be as choosey as your own.



She seems to be doing well, I am getting to know her particular skin just by checking everyday. Today she is hydrated, and I got a CROWN this morning. Hope you like the pictures.

Sarah

Oh, and how could I forget this one?

Hi, Sarah:

Sooooooooo glad you are able to post these photos. What a precious girl Lily is. Very huggable. Sounds like she is doing just fine. I'm also glad you are looking at all the information as you said.

I guess what can help sometimes is when we find out something is a something NOT to worry about. That's like finding gold! And I also like reading things that work to give us more time....time is a precious thing we never have enough of.

A lot of time when I check medical stuff on the web about these babies...I like reading where people have told their personal stories..sometimes I find more information in that than the technical medical vet sites but then they have helped also.


Hugs to you and Lily and special kisses right on the top of that precious nose!

Never too many pictures....never too many updates...we are here for you, Sarah.

Judy

I just wanted to check in with everyone, so far so good. She goes into the vet this month for her next panel to see if the change has been good. I'm not vaccinating anyone anymore either. The only time they are outside is when they are on the way to the vets so upon weighing the risks, I think the kidneys deserve more concern. What I hate is the anesthesia, it just doesn't sit right with me to make her process it if she's at risk. They want to take it from the jugular but when I was a vet tech, we took it from the arm just like a dog.

She is feeling good though, I do believe. No fluids necessary for the last 10 days or so. And, last week in addition to the normal nighty-night gifts, I got a hat on my laptop and a stinky felt catnip sack in my shoe. It was just what I always wanted...aren't you all just green with envy?

Sarah

Please let us know how it turns out.

Yes!!!!! Green with envy.

Sending her prayers.

Hugs to you both!!!

Sarah,

Are you aware of the yahoo CRF group? It very good. I am sorry about your baby being diaganozed with CRF. It is regular CRF or CRF with hypertention. The yahoo group has great info on how to do subq fluids. it realy not that hard. I did it for 10 monthes with my Dylan he had CRF + hypertention. His vet copmletelly missed his diaganosis. His blood work was bad Sept 2006 adn the vet said nothing. Needless to say that vet was fired.

I know CRF wasn't what you wanted to hear to day. CRF thought not curable is very highly treatable. Most cats aren't caught in the early stages because their little bodies fight so hard to keep the secret to themselves. Oh how I wish I known about CRF before. I never heard of it until last summer.

I talked to folks who have kitties with CRF who are going strong 5 plus year later. How I wish I known of this disease and Dylan I would of been able to fight harder against it.

My friend Heather recently lost her boy Slick to CRF with throid issues. There are so many things you can do to help right this illness, diffrent cat foods adding phos binder, adding azodyl, giving b12 shots. I just wish will all my heart I knew what I know now 5 years ago.

I have several cats and they all eat Wellness food and they all their food spiked with phos binder. I know that choices I make now will help prolong their kidney health. I been losing a cat about eveyr year or so. until Dylan got sick. The vet said oh their kidneys' are failing and nothing could be done. What a suprise it was to find last year that lots of things can be done. I pesonally believe my cats became ill due to the toxic corn in their cat food. I am now using Wellness that has no corn in and can see my babies are doing much better.

I know this probaly not one of the best days of your life, but in the future you will be able look back an realize how blessed Lilly was to be dianozed early. I personallly recomend the yahoo group. They got all sort of wonderful information they can help you order you iv supplies at a fraction of the cost the vet charges. They been together for about 10 year and they are so much more knowledge than my vet. Also if some of the meds they need can be compounded into yummy flavors. Dylan had to take Norvasc for hypertention i Had it compounded into a chicken flavor and he loved it.

http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/Feline-CRF-Support/ (yahoo group for CRF owners)

www.thrivingpets.com (Ian a member of the group and has very good prices on iv fluids, needles ect. )

http://www.fabcats.org/owners/kidney/subcutaneous/info.html (instructions on how do sub q fluids)

http://www.felinecrf.org/ (this is one of my favorite sites very awesome site )

http://www.azodyl.com/
Azodyl Caps helps to slow down uremic toxin buildup and prevent further kidney damage in dogs and cats. It is a breakthrough in veterinary product. It works by providing natural Enteric Dialysis through the use of beneficial bacteria that support kidney function.
The treatment choice at the first signs of azotemia in dog and cats with acute or chronic kidney disease.
Patented formula of naturally-occurring beneficial bacteria that metabolize and flush out uremic toxins that have diffused into the bowel as a result of increased toxin levels in the blood.
Easy-to-administer, enteric-coated capsules.
Can be used with other treatments and/or products, such as phos binder.

Also there is a new study for azodyl and you can get free bloodwork if you sign up. They are wanting to do a 4 month study on cats with CRF.
http://www.vin.com/ART/Protocol.htm


Blessings,
Michelle

Lindsey,

I am sorry to hear that you cat has PKD. Did you adopt your baby from a breeder? If that is the case they should be ashamed for breeding PKD + cats as they can run tests to check for it and cats that test positive should not be being bred. I can see that we all listed several good sites for you. Check them about the CRF group hsa great knowledge and I know PKD tends to show up in younger cats, but this group has no good knowedge about CRF they might be able to help you out.

I lost my Dylan to CRF + hypertention 04/26/08 I am thankskful you have a great vet. Mine caused Dylan's untimeless death at age 18 becaues he was clueless about this diese. I had 10 more wonderful month with my Dylan I miss him every moment of eveyr day. But I thank God for 10 more monthyes.

My prayers are with you,
Michelle
Missing my blue eyed king and soul mate.

Hi Joanne, Razzycat , Howard and Dylan must of had the same vet. I know exactly how you feel. I had misgivings about the vet but he was convience and seemed nice. Dylan spent 1 week at the vet last June sick as could be. Came home still sick 3 weeks later by accident they ran a doppler test. He was dying from hypertention. literaly a 16.00 saved his life. I still get the shivers when I think my blue eyed king could of lost his eye site due to the blood pressure being off the wall 240 shoud of been 130.

It is a good feeling to know I friends who know where we are coming from,

Blessings,
Michelle

Missing with all my heart my blue eyed king and soul mate.
Champion Dylan Mattthew Hightower

About the vet....it never hurts to ask why the jugular..if it makes sense..you can feel more comfortable about it. I never knew they went there at all.

Keep us updated on how she is doing. So far..sounds very good.


Kisses to that sweetheart
and a Hug for her Mom

Judy

Hi all,

Well, not good news today. Her BUN is up from 55 to 72 and her Creat. from 1.6 (I think) to 2.71, just from June to now. Doc said this increase is significant and can't even give her antibiotics for her inflammed mouth until we get the levels "at least back to where they were." The plan is no longer as needed, but 200 mLs of sub-q's every other day but the kicker is, she's hydrated, at least as far as the skin tent goes. I asked him today if he thought she was dehydrated (I would've said yes) and he said no, so I have been giving her fluids enough (well, I would have thought so anyway.) Her gums are so red too, I can tell it's uncomfortable because she kind of licks the air. And her breath blows my hair back from the ketones. I want to give her something for the pain, but everything's off limits for now. (Boy am I glad I took her off the Diazepam.) So I love on her like mad, it seems to at least distract her and make her happy. She has a recheck in two weeks to see if she can safely take the meds then.

They took the blood out of her leg too. Thank God, if her levels are that high, anesthesia could have been a nightmare. She was so good, with her purring and just looking around while he poked and prodded.

I'm going to search for some home-made kitty gruel recipes for my little hunchback tonight. He prescribed her k/d but i know many people here found that unsuccessful. (Sorry I haven't been on sooner, this is a busier time for me at work.) As usual tips, tricks and words of support are always welcome. She has always like warm bath water when I draw it, I wonder if it helps with her mouth, maybe? Either way, if it gets fluids in her, I'm all for it.

Sarah

Hello Sarah,
Good to hear from you. Wish it were better news. I'm sure you are being a very good moma to her. I personally can't offer you and tricks or tips. All I have is my support and prayers to offer.

Many HUgs to you and Lily. Give her a few extra scratches from me.