Mara answers:

Hi there,

I am sorry to hear about your kitty and the diagnosis that the veterinarian who you never met made. Not knowing the practitioner I am sure is upsetting to you as well.

As far as I am concerned, It is always a good idea, in my opinion, to get a second opinion if you are not confident with any practitioner. Blood and urine tests are generally used to make the diagnosis and are fairly accurate, but repeating them is prudent as well.

Unfortunately, kidney disease in cats is fairly common as cats age. My 8 year-old Oriental Short hair was just diagnosed with possible early stages of kidney failure also, by two veterinarians that I really respect. While tests are all in normal range, some of the behavior he is showing, such as frequent urination and huge appetite for water points in the direction of this possibility. He is not Diabetic.

I so agree with you about Hill’s products. They are really not good nutrition. It seems that many veterinarians prescribe these rx products, but in reality feline nutritional knowledge is very scanty. Veterinarians receive little training in this very important area, and most of it, I hear, is provided by some of the manufacturer’s of these products and want to be sure that vets keep their waiting rooms stocked with them. The product that he prescribed is low in protein but cats need to eat, and it is much more important to be sure that your cat is eating to avoid liver problems. In fact there is controversy about limiting protein with kidney problems, and in fact, may hasten the disease.

Keeping your cat hydrated and not giving dry food is one way that you can help him a lot.

I heartily recommend that you read this article which I found for you on the Original Holisticat site about renal conditions and the types of diet which are appropriate for our cats who have this problem. They are obligate carnivores and need meat. This is a fascinating and excellent explanation of the disease and possible ways to keep it at bay.

Http://www.holisticat.com/drjcrf.html

There are many ways to prolong the life of your kitty. I had a cat with serious kidney failure and was able to prolong her life for several years, and as her disease progressed, we gave her sub-Q fluids which really helped spark her appetite and energy level. A caring and competent Vet will be able to train you how to do this when and if the time comes for it to be needed.

I would suggest seeking an alternative care veterinarian practice to provide him with the most appropriate treatment.

My veterinarian prescribed a suppliment called Feline Renal Support, made by Standard Process. I was happy to see that the article that I recommended agreed with her. While the jury is still out about whether he is in the early stages of the disease, we feel that taking proactive measures now may stave off its progression and bolster his kidney health.

I hope I have given you some options to consider. I know how worried you are. Good luck with your kitty.

Troublesniffer

Mara answers:

I always believe that if the cat will die anyway, why not let it live out its days eating the food they like, having treats, playing with you, instead of being lethargic and ill from treatment. You should make the most of these last few weeks, for both of you…you, so that you can enjoy having your cat around you, and your cat so that it can die in peace and happy…all the best.

Mara answers:

Sometimes cats get pica (eating strange things) when they are anemic. His crf may be causing bone marrow suppression which will lead to a non-regenerative anemia. Check your kitty’s gum color, if it is pale pink, this might be the case. Regardless, speak with your vet and explain that you want to continue with palliative, supportive care with no further testing. A good vet will understand and help you to keep your cat as comfortable as possible.