It's been a challenging period for our family. After managing Tiger's kidney failure diagnosis, we faced another hurdle: our 11-year-old cat, Darla, was also diagnosed with stage 3 kidney failure and arthritis in her back hips. This is our journey in adapting to her evolving needs and ensuring her comfort.
We adopted Darla in 2015 during a joint event by Spaymart and the Jefferson Parish Humane Society. At 2 years old, she was shy and had been returned to the shelter twice. Integrating her into our household was a gradual process. Initially, she confined herself to my son's bedroom, slowly exploring other areas over two years. Known for her agility, Darla could effortlessly balance atop doors. Unfortunately, her illness has curtailed such feats, but she remains playful, especially with string-like toys.
Recognizing the Signs
Darla's behavior changed subtly at first. She became less active, her appetite waned, and she seemed more withdrawn. These signs coincided with an unusual snowfall in Louisiana, delaying our vet visit. When we finally saw the veterinarian, the diagnosis was clear: stage 3 kidney failure and arthritis.
Understanding Stage 3 Kidney Failure
In stage 3 kidney failure, a significant portion of kidney function is lost, leading to toxin buildup in the bloodstream. Cats at this stage often require aggressive treatment and management, sometimes involving hospitalization.
Implementing Dietary Changes
Diet plays a pivotal role in managing chronic kidney disease (CKD). We transitioned Darla to a prescription kidney diet, which helps reduce the kidneys' workload and manage disease progression. Darla prefers wet canned food, which also aids in increasing her fluid intake—a crucial aspect of CKD management.
Hydration: A Key Focus
Maintaining hydration is vital for cats with CKD. Beyond providing fresh water, we incorporated subcutaneous fluid therapy. Initially, Darla received daily fluids; now, we've reduced this to weekly sessions, with additional administration as needed based on her condition.
Managing Arthritis and Pain
Darla's arthritis in her back hips required attention. Our veterinarian prescribed Gabapentin every other day to alleviate her discomfort. Managing pain in cats with CKD can be complex due to the kidneys' reduced ability to process medications, but with careful monitoring, we've found a regimen that offers her relief.
Addressing Incontinence Issues
Post-diagnosis, Darla experienced incontinence, often wetting herself during sleep. With the combination of fluid therapy and medication, this issue has largely resolved. However, occasional accidents still occur, reminding us of the importance of patience and understanding.
Encouraging Eating and Weight Gain
Weight loss is a common concern in cats with CKD. Encouraging Darla to eat enough has been challenging. We've tried various strategies, including warming her food to enhance aroma and offering multiple small meals throughout the day. Collaborating with our veterinarian, we've identified supplements and appetite stimulants to support her nutritional needs.
The Transformation in Darla's Behavior
One unexpected outcome of Darla's health journey is her increased affection. Once a solitary cat, she now follows me around, seeking companionship and curling up beside family members. This change has deepened our bond and underscored the importance of emotional well-being in her overall health.
Final Thoughts
Caring for a senior cat with stage 3 kidney failure and arthritis is undeniably demanding, let alone 2 cats with the diagnosis. It requires vigilance, adaptability, and a commitment to understanding and meeting their evolving needs. Through dietary management, hydration, pain relief, and unwavering love, we've witnessed improvements in Darla's quality of life. For those navigating similar challenges, know that with dedication and proper care, it's possible to provide your feline companion with comfort and happiness in their senior years.
Update 4/7/2025
Unfortunately, as of the early morning hours of April 6, 2025, our sweet Darla crossed the rainbow bridge peacefully in her sleep. She seemed to start rebounding from her improvement and we began daily fluids again with no improvement. I planned on calling the vet today, Monday, April 7th, due to her not really eating as of Saturday evening and was showing some neurological signs with some head shaking and such. Unfortunately, her time was cut short. We're sad she is gone, but we're happy she is no longer suffering. We enjoyed many happy years with her and were honored to have her as part of our family.
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