My aged (but still quite lively!) kitty has had kidney disease as long as we've known him. We've switched him to K/D prescription cat food and we've done everything we can think of to convince the stubborn little dope to drink more water, but on our last vet visit the vet told us that unless he shows signs of improvement soon, we may need to start giving him regular fluid injections. I'm hoping for a little more info about the process, and our options... [more inside]
posted by Ursula Hitler on May 3, 2013 - 35 answers

Back in July, my 11 year old cat was tentatively diagnosed with possible early renal failure. This past Saturday, however, she had another round of bloodwork and urinalysis...the results of which indicated her kidneys are probably fine! Needless to say, I'm very happy about this. But the more I think about it, the more it seems like the clinic folks jumped to conclusions way too quickly based on too little information. Am I off-base here, or is it perhaps really time to explore other local veterinary options? [more inside]
posted by aecorwin on Nov 27, 2012 - 8 answers

Elderly cat with renal failure/retinal detachment and mild hyperthyroid. Looking for cat lovers who can help advise me on the road ahead. [more inside]
posted by citygirl on May 15, 2012 - 16 answers

For the next month or two, I need to tighten up my already very small budget. I'd like ideas for easy-to-cook meals that I can make very cheaply. Complications: chronic illness, restricted diet, and an ineffective air conditioner. [more inside]
posted by WasabiFlux on Aug 31, 2011 - 18 answers

My vet has given my cat two doses of Metacam (Meloxicam) in the last seven days. The drug is black-labeled for usage in cats by the FDA ("Repeated Use In Cats Has Been Associated With Acute Renal Failure And Death"). What should I do now? [more inside]
posted by orthogonality on Mar 7, 2011 - 10 answers

Anemic cat with poor appetite. Had symptoms of kidney (renal) issues but the numbers are now OK. Still no appetite. Diagnosis? [more inside]
posted by exogenous on Jul 9, 2009 - 12 answers

Boiled down to its essence, what is the job of a renal social worker? [more inside]
posted by Quizicalcoatl on Jun 21, 2009 - 4 answers