How I Found Out Forest Has Kidney Disease

[@AllAboutCatsYT]

Thank you so much for watching this video. I really appreciate all of the support and community you've provided over the last couple of years. If you have or have had a cat affected by CKD, I'd love to hear your stories and insights here. Thank you again! - Mallory

[@vasantos-re4hb]

The simple fact is she's getting old. And these things happen. Love in the moment. That's why they are with you.

[@NeverBeDaunted]

Do you know of some non-Rx dry kibble brands with low phosphorus. Only one I have found so far is Whole Hearted Urinary Support which says 1% Max. I’d like to find lower. I can find 0.6 in the pet stores, but they say Min. Minimum amount listed is useless in this scenario,

[@wyliecoyote1696]

Yes; I've had 2. It is difficult. Cats lack a specific kidney gene that impacts their kidneys from the moment they're born. Hence they need as much hydration as possible especially from their diet. Also, I've read that one of the vaccines they recommend for cats impacts their kidneys. I cannot remember which one. The less dry food they have access to; the better their kidneys will be. So increase their consumption of wet/raw food. And of course IV hydration is critical! It really helps with their condition.

[@rjz2069]

Mallory, you are very strong. Thanks for helping all of us learn how to better care for our fur babies. You are appreciated beyond words. I lost Lucky to CKD when he was 17, and am thankful for the happy times we shared, and feel very blessed to have been a part of his life. It's always best to focus on the good 🙏 I strongly believe that life, even with all the difficulties, is such a blessing. By the way, the information you share helps, and will help others, and that's something priceless. That makes you a hero in every sense of the word. Sending lots of love ♥️ With appreciation, -Jose

[@ashleamendelson1414]

Hi Mallory, I’m sorry to hear about this. My cat has been diagnosed with diabetes and he’s on his second insulin and giving him 4ml he’s still drinking and urinating a lot. I’m thinking the doctor may want to switch his insulin again and as we switch insulin every time it goes up in price. Right now I’m paying around $60 for the insulin now the next insulin goes up I’m not sure how far up it’s going to go. We do anything we can for our babies and I will continue as long as I can. I’ve been working a second job to support his vet and his insulin needles etc. Last visit his sugar was around 380 which is still high, but it has come down when I first took him in. It was almost 700 that’s when I did not know he had a problem. I just knew he was drinking a whole lot. But anyway kidney issue is a big concern of mine now as he’s been diagnosed with diabetes, so I’m sure the doctor may want to check that since he has been urinating a lot. It can be very expensive I know. 😢

[@wandadawnmiller1552]

I would never think that sharing experiences of medical or veterinary issues is "exploitative." As someone who cares for indoor owned cats as well as a colony of outdoor Community Cats, I can use all the cost cutting tips I can find. So much of routine vet care can be handled by pet owners and it's vital information that can reduce stress on cats and owners as well as costs. Please keep doing what you're doing. It's very much appreciated!

[@djenkins853]

We adopted a cat from rescue and she passed away 4 months later from kidney disease. It was a very difficult time and we felt cheated. At least she had a family to care for her at the end. Forest is very fortunate to have you caring for her! Please keep us informed how she’s doing. This will be a very helpful video for others who have cats with kidney disease. I ordered the tests for my two cats. Thank you for the video!!

[@tanupriyadas9058]

CAN you please tell me what are the symptoms of kidney disease in cat?

[@Cats.in.Tuxedos]

I'm sorry yet you made a valuable end of life experience and I'm one of those that believes you don't always get the cat/dog that you desire you usually connect & end up with the one that helps you get thru it & be stronger....

[@djenkins853]

@@tanupriyadas9058 The first sign for my cat was excessive urination.

[@tanupriyadas9058]

@@djenkins853 How many times a day?

[@djenkins853]

@@tanupriyadas9058 I don’t know that because we had another cat as well. She was making huge pee balls the size of a baseball and larger. Watch the litter box. I had to add litter everyday. Even with my current cats, once a month or so when I see them go into the litter box, I will look to see how big the clumps are. I have a litter robot that sifts the litter after so many minutes after detection of a cat inside, so I know which cat the clump belongs to.

[@scotty6124]

Wow Malorie the steps you are taking to help this cat live longer are beyond admirable. One of the worst parts about finding out your cat has an ailment like this is the insane amount of costs it takes just to get blood tests, x rays and any kind of vet care. The amount of people who are forced to put their cat to sleep simply out of lack of money is so sad.

[@AllAboutCatsYT]

Thank you. I agree-I feel very fortunate that this came at a time in my life when I _can_ take these steps; it's certainly a privilege many (if not most) of us don't have.

[@marciamartins1992]

And not all vets are a like, mine just diagnosed the CKD and called it a day....I was on my own after that. She just prescibed pills that were really hard to feed my cat and the fluids and said she has a month to live. The most heart breaking experience ...no more for me.

[@ellenjenner1488]

Thank you for your honesty! We do appreciate it! I have lost 3 of 4 cats to this common ailment of old cats. I learn so much from each cat on how to better treat this disease. Thank you for letting us know what you are doing for Forest! Give her a pet from us!❤

[@jc.1191]

So sorry. Poor little furball is sweet and doesn't deserve that.

[@mpmp9502]

It would be very helpful for all us catparents if you did an update video after 6 months with the progress of your cat's health, markers etc. If all these supplements, special food helped. Thank you.

[@vontoobner5979]

I lost a cat of 18 yrs to CKD. I did all the special food, subQ fluids, and supplemented with azodyl and fortiflora. He always had a great appetite. It comes down to quality of life, and knowing when to say goodbye. Eventually he had more bad days than good days and we had a vet come to the house to euthanize him. My remaining cat (just turned 17y) was just diagnosed. She's always been a picky eater and wont go for special foods. The epakitin binds the phosphorus so she can keep eating the food she likes. She also enjoys the purina procare hydra care, which looks like brown sludge. Getting adequate moisture is key. So we're once again in that space where we're silently evaluating quality of life. She's still in good spirits for now. All we can do is love and care for them, and be grateful for their presence in our lives!

[@toccabrigitte2684]

My senior cat has kidney disease, diabetes, and digestive issues. I feed him Hills k/d wet food, pumpkin puree, kidney supplement, joint supplement, laxative, plus a pill 30mins prior to feeding him to aid with digestion. I give him 3 shots of insulin per day and check his blood sugar with a glucose monitor specifically for cats & dogs. At first, I felt a bit overwhelmed, but did what I needed to do to keep him healthy as this was what the vet recommended. It's not so hard anymore, just part of the daily routine. The best thing is he is doing pretty well.. He's got a shiny soft coat and, overall, is a content senior kitty who loves his naps and snoring loudly. Your Forest is in good hands with many years ahead of him with his loving mama.

[@marissarottaris9049]

I know how it feels to have a cat with kidney disease. My beloved black cat Salem who is 10 years old has kidney disease. And I know it's going to kill her eventually and take my baby away from me. It's going to destroy me when I have to say goodbye to my baby girl. I know I will never be the same again. She's the best thing that has ever happened to me I got her in my life at a time when I really needed someone and my whole entire world was dark depressing and lonely and not worth living at that point until I got this beautiful adorable loving black kitten who changed my life forever and for the better. And since then these past 10 years she has been the best thing that has ever happened to me. She's always been there for me when I needed her She's the best cat you could ever have. Most of the time I never go out I stay home taking care of her 247 because she is sick. So I dedicate my life and time to spending every second of every day with her because I don't wanna miss a thing or a single moment. I may have left with her.

[@AllAboutCatsYT]

Hi Marissa, thank you for sharing your experience...I hope you're able to appreciate and enjoy the time you have with her and don't let the anticipation of loss consume you.

[@ritashustitzky2934]

This is a great invention. I've lost four cats from kidney disease. The last one lived with it for two years because I gave him fluids for two years. His dementia was getting worse so at 19 I had to say goodbye. I would suggest that people start testing their cats at about 12 years to be able to get ahead of the disease.

[@lindahanson4268]

Thanks for your post. I’m glad to hear that your cat lived for two years on the fluids. My cat has stage 3. We are not on fluids yet but I fed him all day long small meals and water and CKD food and probiotic. He’s 12 and is doing great. Our vet was awful and made it sound like he barely had any time left. We switched vets. I know others that lived well for two years on iv. I’m glad you shared this do I know I have time left with my kitty.

[@AllAboutCatsYT]

There does seem to be a tendency among vets to put forth a grim picture for the future-ours didn't make things sound very hopeful, either. @Linda Hanson Wishing you and your cat all the best.

[@lindahanson4268]

Thanks so much ❤️ @allaboutcats

[@nunyabznz]

My baby girl passed from kidney disease last Nov. I noticed a big change in her water intake and output. Test would've saved me 100's of dollars!

[@yvonnedavis2955]

This is a bit long, so I hope you can bear with me. I have had three cats with CKD. The first two were older cats when they were diagnosed, one 15 and the other 16. My first CKD cat, the 15 year old, would not tolerate subcutaneous fluids. It made him miserable and we decided to let him go without trying aggressive treatment when he was no longer comfortable. The second cat was diagnosed when she was 16 and after my first experience I thought it was going to be another short painful journey. But like Forest, she did not mind fluid infusions at all. I fed her a combination of prescription dry food she really liked and good quality low phosphorus OTC wet food. I used aluminum hydroxide phosphate binder with both wet and dry foods, the generally recommended vitamins, fish oil and similar supplements, antiacids, plus eventually erythropoietin to help with the inevitable anemia. For most of the rest of her life, you would not have been able to guess Blaze was ill, until the last couple months when she started to fail. By then she was almost 20, so she lived a good quality of life for almost 4 years after her diagnosis. When my current cat, Willow, was diagnosed at a young age, only 8, I was beside myself. I couldn't believe her life was going to cut short like that. With dietary management, she did well for the next year, but when her numbers began to worsen and it became time for supplemental fluids she was not as matter of fact as Blaze. She did not fight it, but cried piteously every time I stuck her with a needle, and believe me, after nearly four years with Blaze I'm an expert with fluid infusion. Her kidney values continued to worsen. Then in a discussion of feline CKD I saw mention of kidney transplant programs at a few universities. One of the pioneers, UC Davis, is reasonably close to us, but unfortunately discontinued their program. But the University of Wisconsin, University of Pennsylvania, and University of Georgia still have active transplant programs. This is not a light, nor inexpensive undertaking, but I wish it were more readily available to more cat owners. After consulting with all three, we eventually found an opening and a matching donor at UGA, and almost two years ago Willow received a kidney transplant at the UGA Veterinary Hospital Soft Tissue Surgery Service. I am forever grateful for the care she received there and the skill and compassion of Chad Schmiedt, the Alison Bradbury Chair in Feline Health. Although she must take anti-rejection medication on a strict schedule the rest of her life (which will most likely be shorter than a normal cat, but much longer than she would have survived otherwise, Dr. Schmiedt said she would probably not have lived 6 more months) she is healthy and happy, and other than her medication schedule, looks and behaves just like any normal cat. It is such a gift. I would do it all over again in a heartbeat. We were also happy to welcome Ben, her goofball donor into our family, where he will be treasured the rest of his life. You certainly do not have to go the the lengths I did to save my cat, and may not need to, but the advancements in veterinary medicine are remarkable. I wish your and Forest's time together is as long and as good a quality as I had with Blaze. It is true it is no longer an immediate death sentence and there is probably still considerable quality time left for you to be together.

[@AllAboutCatsYT]

Thank you for sharing your experience and knowledge.

[@jannalynsmith814]

My best beloved kitty Amber died 3 years ago of CKD and my heart goes out to you and Forrest. I am an ICU RN and provided Amber with every therapy available to her at the time, and luckily she regarded the fluid treatments etc as just another excuse for a cuddle. I so wish I had the wonderful information in your new video for her when she was ill, and cannot thank you enough for bringing this critical information to a wide audience. In the 70s I was a veterinary technician and we saw only one or two cats a year with this disease, and now vets tell me as much as 50% of the cats in their care are affected. Research is desperately needed into the prevention and treatment of this epidemic, and information like yours is critical to all cat lovers. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your feline best friends. Thank you again.

[@rainbomg]

I’m so sorry about your friend :’( I had some questions about what you said about the patterns you noticed from the time you spent as a vet tech? Do you remember anything about how old the cats were in the 70s, and possibly anything about their diet? Did you notice a sex difference at all?

[@jannalynsmith814]

@@rainbomg In those days we had far fewer choices for food and most cats were fed canned food. I worked in three different vet clinics, and only one kitty affected was under 9 years old. I remember one as a diabetic male about 12 yo but am sorry, dont remember the gender of the others. Over the last 30 years of loving my 4 kitties, one had a vaccination induced sarcoma, two were treated with radioactive iodine for hyperthyroidism, and two had ckd. Amber lived with her ckd to over 19 years of age, and there is not a day that i do not wish she was healthy and purring and back in my arms.

[@Cali-Con]

@@jannalynsmith814 Thank you so much for your feedback on CKD. My kitty, Callarina, was diagnosed with the beginning stages of CKD at 12 years old and had lost significant weight due to not eating. She looked really healthy, but had lost weight, which is why I brought her into the vet. (To preface this, I DO NOT vaccinate my kitty ever, because they are so damaging to the liver). I immediately researched CKD to find some holistic answers from holistic vets, discovering that kibbles are very difficult on their kidneys and digestive tract. I took her off of her high quality kibbles ASAP, and bought Orijen Wet Cat food with bone broth, which had just come on the market. She gobbled it up eating 2-3 small cans per day! Orijen later came out with the larger cans which helped the cost. Callarina totally regained her weight and was active like she was before, until recently. She is now 14 1/2 yrs. old and displaying more advanced symptoms, which is why I am researching again. I may start making homemade kitty food for her. This video also was very informative by giving me very helpful information. However, I do believe that both kibbles and vaccines have a lot to do with why our pets have so many diseases nowadays compared to 20 yrs. ago and before, along with shortened lives. And every year they come out with even MORE vaccines, just like for humans. They are a huge money maker for these companies, and a total travesty for our beloved pets and those who love them!

[@aLittleBatty]

My calico bff Abby was diagnosed with CKD at 15 and lived to 20. Low protein diet was all she needed. Remained sassy and snuggly until the end. Ultimately died of cancer. I hope you and Forest have many more years together! Edit: I GOT A PRESCRIPTION FOR HILLS KIDNEY DIET FOOD. Your vet may recommend a different brand like Royal Canin. These are low protein diets.

[@liakogogidze2933]

So sorry, but what an amazingly long life❤. What food were you feeding Abby?

[@aLittleBatty]

@@liakogogidze2933 it’s been a few years but I think it was called Science Diet. Not cheap but worth it.

[@fathvma7745]

May I ask what food you gave her?

[@aLittleBatty]

@@fathvma7745Science Diet high protein kidney diet

[@Cali-Con]

It would be most helpful if you mentioned the low-protein food you fed Abby. My calico is now in an advanced CKD stage and can use all the help she can get. Thank you in advance for your kind help.

[@Kyarrix]

I am so sorry Mallory, I feel your sadness, it comes through. I've commented before that we lost our cat last March, he would have been 18. He had kidney disease for the last few years too. For the last 6 months he was also given fluids, a vet tech would come during her off hours and do it several times a week. We gave him prednisolone every night from the time he was 13 or 14, it kept him healthy and happy. He had inflammatory issues and the steroid kept it in check for years. We were very grateful for that. He almost made it to 18 and only the last few months were rough. I'm crying as I type this, I miss my cat and I'm sad for you. As you said though it isn't dire, Forest can have years of fairly healthy happy life. You got an early diagnosis and you are going to do everything that you can do to support her health. A lot of this isn't in our control but I'm trying to do everything I can to set our two adolescent kittens (they'll be a year old in April) up for a long healthy life. I am sorry this is happening to you and Forest.

[@maxaroni2004]

Our Max🌈 was diagnosed with CKD at the age of 10 and nearly lived to 16. Hopefully your Forest can live with it for many years 🙏❤️🐈

[@angelaklinger2951]

I will keep Forrest in my prayers and thank you for letting us know about this kidney check product. Thank you for all the hard work you and everyone else on this channel does for us cat lovers. I’ve learned so much!🙏🐾

[@susank3986]

Your video is helping hundreds of kitties. Never hold back!

[@ortashley]

I'm so sorry you and your baby are going through this. My cat (almost 9) was diagnosed last year and his levels were out of the charts, the vet almost told me to get ready to say goodbye, but the azodyl and the epakitin combined with prescription diet saved him. So please, don't feel you're "exploiting" your baby, you're helping a lot of people who are wondering and experimenting to save their pets and personally ,your recommendations are priceless. My baby and I send you and Forest the best of luck wrapped with huge amounts of love.

[@liakogogidze2933]

Yes, how did you administer the Azodyl? Did you also sprinkle on food?

[@ortashley]

@@midnightRider8428 I'm so sorry for not answering before. At first I'd sprinkle it on his wet food and it was working, but whenever he wouldn't finish his food I'd get all anxious about the meds working. So I ask the vet to teach me and I give him the pill directly to his mouth; it's been almost a year and so far he's doing amazing

[@ortashley]

@@liakogogidze2933 yes, at first I used to. But I asked the vet to teach me how to properly give him a pill because if get super anxious whenever he wouldn't finish his food. The sprinkling worked but I did notice a difference when I started giving him the pill directly to his mouth.

[@liakogogidze2933]

@@ortashleyit’s so hard to do , I can understand that. I appreciate your info as my girl is having issues and I want to have a grasp on things that are helping others, so I appreciate you and hope your baby is still doing well, they are so precious ❤

[@perpetual_bias]

that outro was absolutely serene

[@TinaLynn]

Belly rubs to Forest! This info is SO HANDY! I am unemployed and have a disability hearing next month, so without funds, I can't get my 16 yr old kitty to the vet and I constantly worry about his kidneys. This kit is a great idea to get a diagnosis without spending hundreds at the vet. Thank you for this. I'll be ordering one soon!

[@dabzprincess92]

My cat will not eat any of the ckd recommended foods prescription or otherwise and the vet is guessing and refusing to do blood work without over drugging my cat at midnight and two hours before the blood test. In all my 50 years owning cats 3 already with ckd and I'm now scrambling for a vet because I moved far far far from where I was the last 30 years. I'm absolutely devastated. It's been since October and I'm 100 percent sure that's what it is but my poor cat and I just cannot find a vet in the surrounding areas taking new cat patients. Dogs no problem cats they are horrifying. I have never in all my life have ever had so many encounters with vets who absolutely despise cats and treating them. This is so encouraging and go figure you did this 11 months ago. I cannot thank you enough. Because now I can contact this company and adjust his food levels whether by line or syringe I have hope again. Because yesterday I about threw in the towel and prayed to God for an alternative answer. Here you and this new test are. Thank you. God bless you and forest. 😢

[@marciamartins1992]

My advice learn all you can and just use the vet to get access to meds you need on line. Tanaya CKD website has a world of knowlege. It will be a test of emotional endurace so weigh your cat's quality of life in your treatments. My heart is with all at parents who have to go through this.

[@Sicacast]

My best wishes for Forest and yourself. I just recently lost my cat Stig to diabetes, and know that the struggle of caring for a sick cat is tremendously difficult. Physically for them, and emotionally for yourself. Forest is in such wonderful hands with you and I hope the two of you have many more lovely years together. I appreciate that there are diagnosis products on the market that can be an intermediary step between vet visits. With Stig and with many cats, the hardest part is even realizing something is wrong.

[@patriciasjodt1933]

Our cat was diagnosed with kidney disease at 12 years old. We tried the recommended foods and she hated every one. We decided to feed her what she liked so she would have a better quality of life. She will be 19 this April and still enjoying life.

[@itsmesezgin]

Amazing! Why do you think she lived longer and still alive?

[@patriciasjodt1933]

@@itsmesezgin don’t have any idea why she’s lasted so long. She’s an indoor/outdoor cat and comes and goes as she pleases.

[@monazaki7227]

Forest is so adorable! She eats very well especially the fish treats....I hope she feels better. I love you all ya guys! 😍❤

[@Rugerforevercat]

I'm so sorry to hear about Forest and her kidney issues 😥 she is such a sweetheart ❤. May God and you watch over her 🙏 and thank you so much for sharing your story and this valuable information.

[@PennySue]

Praying for Forest and you! 🙏 Unfortunately almost every one of my senior cats end up getting kidney disease somewhere between 15 to 18 years old. I have a 21 year old now who was recently diagnosed and we do the same thing for each cat.....Azodyl twice daily, Epakitin 1 spoonful twice daily and K/D crunchy and wet food. I've had the privilege of raising cats for over 42 years and I'm grateful that I've learned to give them the Sub-Q fluids at home. Some cats are a little bit more challenging but I've learned to set them in a top loading carrier to do the fluids because it helps me keep better control of them if they start getting antsy before I finish. It's the easiest way for me since I do it alone. If they're picky about the prescription food, I mix it with a different food. For the wet food, I put it in a small handy chopper mixer, add a little water for extra hydration and blend it in the mixer until it's sort of like a soup so it's easier for them to eat. I appreciate you putting the link for the kidney check! Wishing the best for Forest and you and please keep us updated. ❤🙏💜 Love from all my cats and me at The Cats Meow. (that's what I call my house full of rescue cats) 🐾😄🐾

[@user-ul8hu7bc6l]

Thank you for sharing what products you use to help CKD kitties 🐈‍⬛

[@tanupriyadas9058]

Can you please tell me what are the symptoms of kidney diseases in cat?

[@a990dna]

Thank you for sharing. I'm sorry to hear about Forest. I too have a little tabby girl that's been diagnosed with CKD. Her name is Bebe and she's 17 1/2 years old. We started noticing she was losing weight and drinking a lot of water. She also started to vomit and have diarrhea more frequently. Thing is, we've tried all kinds of food and we can't get her to eat what's been prescribed. We settled on Tiki Cat and her regular Fancy Feast. She won't eat the Tiki Silver. I'm going to get the home diagnostic kit to check her kidney markers. She's such sweetheart. I rescued her 16 years ago. She was a feral cat with 5 kittens. I love her dearly. Please keep us posted on Forest's progress. ❤

[@jessmendoza510]

I’m on my 3rd rescue kitty with CKD. Daisy is stage 3 and has been pretty much stable since we took her in a year ago. I would recommend asking the vet about calcitriol once you are able to bring Forest’s phosphorus to a normal level. I truly believe that it is the reason Daisy’s kidney disease has remained stable. Other than the calcitriol, we do fluids 3 times a week, weruva low phosphorus food and phosphorus binder. We just recently added Pepcid and ondansetron at night since she was starting to have acid vomits in the middle of the night. I hope Forest continues to do well ❤

[@user-ul8hu7bc6l]

Thank you for sharing what you’re doing and what seems to be working for your cat 🐈‍⬛

[@AllAboutCatsYT]

Thank you, Jessica.

[@lindahanson4268]

Thanks Jessica. My cat has it too and this info is helpful. My cat is going well so far. I feed him CKD food and water all day long. Many small meals plus a daily probiotic. When he was really I’ll the probiotic turned him around in 24 hours. Best wishes to you both ❤️

[@johnnyinnftmyers]

I’m in the same boat, My 17 year old was just diagnosed with stage 4 kidney disease after we had B/W done for her annual dental, vet doesn’t want to put her under anesthesia because she probably won’t wake up, she seems fine and I am used to doing sub-Q.

[@tanupriyadas9058]

Can you please tell me what are the symptoms of kidney diseases in cat?

[@justinm8606]

It’s wonderful to see you making such a tremendous effort for Forest! So many people treat cats of less importance than dogs which is ridiculous! Your an inspiration to all us cat parents!

[@jessielauzon4117]

My cat passed away at 5.5 years because of CKD. She had deformed kidneys likely from birth and didn't show symptoms until the end was near. Being able to find CKD early is critical for long term care, which is totally possible for cats with CKD. I wish we had this test earlier!

[@ForsakenTempl]

All we can do is just love these little rascals and help them along their journeys. I'm sorry for the news, I just lost my baby a month ago to Scc, but she had thyroid and ckd too. I cried for four days and then got me two new friends that make me smile again. Love to you and your fur babies....

[@crochetedfashion]

Thanks. We appreciate you. 💖

[@jedriscoll5678]

Thank you so much for doing this video. I know how hard it must have been for you. My baby Twink developed kidney disease two years ago. I wish I had known about all of the things you and some of the others in the community have suggested. I was only told to make sure she drank a lot, to add water to her food, and to switch to RC kidney wet food. I brought her into the vet 2 days before New Year's and was told that not only was her kidneys in end-stage, but she had a growth in her stomach. So, three months before her 18th birthday, I decided to have them put her down. I didn't want her to suffer any more. Hardest decision, of many in my life, that I've ever had to make. I intend to adopt a middle-aged rescue cat when I'm ready. My apartment is too small for the high antics of a kitten, and at 75, I'm too old . Thanks again to you and the others who have contributed so much information. Chances are any cat I adopt will develop ckd. At least this time I'll be more prepared to help. Good luck to you and Forest.

[@lexseec6124]

At your age have a plan in place for who will care for your new cat

[@PurpleRhymesWithOrange]

Sounds like a very useful diagnostic tool. Years ago we had to give one of my cats the saline treatments 3x a week. She freaked out at first but after a couple weeks I think she realized it was helping her so then she would sit quietly and we would keep petting her.

[@AllAboutCatsYT]

Yeah, I've been amazed by how easy it is to give subQ fluids.

[@Jason.cbr1000rr]

Yo I am sorry to hear. I guess my previous Ginger named gold had it too, she lived a long life I think 16 years old, 2001-2017... her last few months she was on a decline and was always bed ridden (stayed on the couch) and passed away peacefully in her sleep. We can tell cos her favorite sleep position on her couch. I wish you and everyone and all animals/lives the best in every aspect! Good health and longevity and positivity and prosperity. Love and peace and hope 🙏

[@childlesscatladiesrule]

I know I'm a year late but just wanted to send hugs and pets to Mallory and Forest! Thank you so much for sharing your experience ❤

[@marciamartins1992]

I'm so glad you did this video. I had to put my baby cat down 3 months after she was diagnosed. I was attributing her symptoms to old age. It was the most heart breaking experience trying to save her. I did'nt know about these at home tests. Vets are so expensive now I spent a lot of money and still lost my cat not to mention all the suffering.

[@sherfinley8855]

You & Dr. Wooton are great. 😊 🐈

[@michellecrockettms.uniteds9101]

Heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time. You are such a good mom to Forest. Thank you for sharing! 💕

[@sirdarklust]

I wish Forest the best.

[@davinasquirrel7672]

To help prevent kidney and other issues, avoid feeding your cat kibble (even as supplementary) and shy away from supermarket commercial cat foods. Feed your cat a raw food (or mostly raw food) diet, as they are obligate carnivores. They do need the red meat as much as possible, white meat like chicken is not sufficient. My current cat has one raw (beef) meal, and one higher quality prepared cat food (cooked, some additives). She occasionally gets tuna in spring water (meant for humans). My beloved boy got kidney 'disease' at around 14 I think, he went on for another 2.5 to 3 years with the medication (I cannot recall the tablet drug). I still regret giving him kibble as a supplementary feed, I will never do that again. Current cat seems to have some issues developing (7.5yo) but she was fed kibble for her first 6.5 years. Never good, trust me. And cat diabetes is an almost certain if you feed them kibble. Never fun to manage and inject the insulin.

[@moramaylocklin4544]

Thank You, Mallory.

[@PinkSallyProductions]

Thank you for all of the info that you have shared. My first cat was diagnosed with kidney disease aged 11yrs. My vet advised me to feed him on boiled chicken. Tobi did eventually die due to kidney failure, but not until he was 20yrs old and after a very pleasant, active life. I wish you and your cat well, you are a very dedicated owner! 🌹

[@AllAboutCatsYT]

29?!?! That's fantastic! Thank you for sharing.

[@alaaddindeniz915]

Howcome ? Did he live upto 29 years of age? Can you please give more info about how you fed him, what did you use as medication and etc please?

[@PinkSallyProductions]

Argh! Apologies, it was meant to say 20yrs! I didn’t spot the typo until I saw your comments. I didn’t mean to mislead. I’ll edit it now, thank you 🌹

[@alaaddindeniz915]

what exactly did you feed her? boiled chicken only? with water and etc? Initially did she have chronic kidney disease at 11? Still sounds amazing , 20 years is too good to be true. Bless you both..

[@PinkSallyProductions]

@@alaaddindeniz915 Hi. Yes, Tobi was diagnosed with kidney disease at age 11yrs. I bought raw chicken in bulk and froze it, then I just took out the amount that would be enough for 3 to 4 days of feeding him. I boiled the chicken until it was thoroughly cooked, let it cool, then cut it up into smaller pieces and just used it in place of his usual cat food. I didn’t pour any of the water I boiled it in onto the chicken, though it was quite moist after cooking it that way. I also only gave him filtered water to drink, though I’m sure that he often drank rainwater from the puddles in our garden 😊I hope that this info helps and my apologies for not replying sooner 🌹

[@hannahsnesil3555]

I just found out mine has early kidney disease. Thank you so much for this video.

[@dj7973]

I'm sorry to hear this.

[@begoodbebetterbeblessedix3766]

My cat Sugah would of benefited from kidney check if I could of known or caught her kidney disease early. Dec 30th she earned her wings after almost 17 years of serviced doting love to one another. Miss you bunches my gurl 💯 pray this video everyone sees to help b4 its too late

[@tanupriyadas9058]

Can you please tell me what are the symptoms of kidney diseases in cats?

[@tanupriyadas9058]

Thanks dear for your reply and wishes. My cat is not showing any other symptoms but she is drinking water about 5-6 times a day . She is about 5 years old and her weight is about 3-3.5 kg ( I'm from India and for Indian cats the body weight is normal). Previously she would drink water 2-3 times a day . She pees 2-3 times a day as she previously did.she's having a good appetite.So, I was just wondering if she's having any problem

[@begoodbebetterbeblessedix3766]

@Tanupriya das your cat in my opinion sounds like it is ok, but always good for a checkup with the vet just in case. My previous reply given, thankful and I am glad you have got to read it because the person that posted the video removed it. How sad you cannot offer sound advice and by help thru of personal experiences when all your trying to do is share by helping others. If you get this, pleases my heart to know your a great parent with an invoking soul that cares with complete attentive love. Thank you for sharing and thankful you read b4 my other reply was deleted. Guess they don't want ppl to so called interfere with my vet and cat situations and only want their words played out within their videos. For this reason, I am unsubscribing to them. God bless you sweetie from the US to a dear one in India

[@tanupriyadas9058]

@@begoodbebetterbeblessedix3766 Thank you once again for your reply, actually I then thought that you have deleted the comment mistakenly.

[@michaelroot6064]

I'm sorry to hear this I lost my Elsa 3 years ago to kidney failure and it seemed like it happened overnight the vet told me its not rare for a healthy cat one day to be sick with kidney failure the next day and like you I fed elsa top of the line wet food (Love and miss you everyday snuggies ♥️)

[@machkam8371]

God bless that baby I’m sorry she has that diagnosis, I had the same for my 14 year old baby Salem. Thank you for loving and caring for her they way you are and sharing your story with us❤

[@cookiesncream789]

Hugs and best wishes to sweet Forest ❤🐈! Unfortunately, we lost one of our cats to kidney disease 😢 recently. The vet found out about it too late 😢.

[@andreah6379]

Now I know, I could never afford another cat. Unless I rob a bank (just kidding.) I need some levity after this video.

[@user-ul8hu7bc6l]

You’re not wrong. I had 5, now 4, cats. The one that passed had a heart issue and couldn’t process anesthesia when he had a urinary blockage. He was only 6. When you adopt ferals, you have no idea what you’re getting, but even purebreds and domestics have health issues. It’s all a crapshoot. We do the best we can by our fur babies 🐈‍⬛🫶🏼

[@stephaniephouotrides2435]

Aww my old guy is going through this. Thank you and prayers for you and the rest of the kitty community 🙏❤️

[@sherfinley8855]

I'm glad you shared this. My 17yr.old cat has kidney failure. 🙏

[@shawnaford5540]

My cat Nicky has CKD and does well with SubQ fluids. I prefer the syringe method. I use the butterfly as my coordination does not allow me to use just a needle and syringe. Nicky is kind of tight skinned and sensitive so I use the 21 G catheter, slower but it his comfort. I adjust or increase the frequency in hot weather. And if he avoids me, it seems this is when he needs to be topped up. Also to reduce nausea I feed him in the middle of the night. He refuses all kidney diet. So the midnight snack is Whiskas. I get up at least once anyways so I have a feeding station in my bedroom. Not that he can not have his regular food anytime, he just likes the fresh opened food. Do I wish he would eat the veterinarian diet, of course but his veterinarian said if you can keep his weight it is a better predictor of survival than making food a battle. So going for quality not quantity of life. All the best wishes for yourself and Forrest.

[@kimroberts8113]

So sorry to hear Forest’s diagnosis. Our last sweet boy had kidney disease.

[@itsbeeeeeeeverly]

Thank you for sharing! Since becoming a new cat owner I'm always worrying about what might happen later down the road, especially in regards to kidney disease. This was great info to be mindful of.

[@misschanandelerbong7946]

I completely agree with keeping protein high with low phosphorus. Without it, they waste away and it's terrible to see. My kitty was diagnosed around age 12-13 and lived to almost 20 years old (and even then, it was cancer that got her in the end, not the kidney disease). The biggest thing, in my opinion, is diet. There weren't many known low phosphorus foods when she was diagnosed so I had a recipe created for her and my other cat by a veterinary nutritionist. It has very little phosphorus and lots of fish oil. I didn't start fluids until the last year of her life. She was progressing so slowly/not at all for many years. While fluids are great and absolutely should be included in the treatment plan if possible, it's not without risks (mainly fluid overload- I gave my cat the amount recommended by my vet and it almost killed her, it was far too much for her. So start small and then go up as appropriate. My tips: Those squeeze up treats are fantastic for getting the cat to stay still when administering the fluids. Heated beds are also great. Terumo needles are the best on the market. Sous vide machines are great for heating up the fluids to body temp. I cut an old head band and then put Velcro on the end to wrap around my cat and hold the IV line. Shout out to Tanya's comprehensive guide to feline CKD. Best resource available, hands down.

[@AllAboutCatsYT]

Thank you so much! Would you be willing to share the recipe you got for your kitties? I'd like to try it if that's okay. If you like, please send an email to [e-mail]. Thanks again.

[@nunchaku4607]

I'm sorry you and Forest are going through this. Forest is lucky to have you. I think he will be okay.

[@yuliyak4117]

I am so sorry to hear about Forest - know this, you are in a much better position than most people to give her the best care she needs. And it looks like you found out about that early enough. You rock - thank you so much, Mallory!

[@AllAboutCatsYT]

Thank you, Yuliya.

[@yuliyak4117]

@@AllAboutCatsYT Mallory, I hope this is not in bad taste - to reference another channel. But that's what we do here - learn and research on UTube. I want to share this video of a Vancouver vet - he is really good at talking about this issue, as well as reassuring that Forest has a great chance to live out her life! Specifically he is talking about medication (and you might be already doing that) kzbin.info/www/bejne/kHLFooZ3mcyara8 take care, and thank you again for sharing this video.

[@AllAboutCatsYT]

@@yuliyak4117 Of course that's welcome! That video is extremely helpful.

[@iunihabaadih]

Thank you for sharing. Sending tons of love to sweet Forest.

[@BBsheepy]

Lost my mom's cat yesterday due to Kidney disease, so sad.... 😥 I wish I could do better, he was 15 he was a good boy, I love him and miss him dearly. Thanks for the info

[@AllAboutCatsYT]

I'm sorry. Wishing you all the best.

[@corystansbury]

Great to know about this product. We adopted a senior lady who we learned had kidney disease (late stage 3) after we got her. We had 10 wonderful months and she accepted some of these changes... But unfortunately not enough. Cats will only allow so many things!

[@kevinlreynolds]

Forgot to add: So sorry that Forrest has this, but I know he has the best of care!

[@jenniferjohnson4032]

Praying for you and forrest.

[@AllAboutCatsYT]

Thank you; that's very kind. Forest has been doing well since this video; I think the dietary changes helped her feel much better, and she's less dehydrated. At her weigh-in this morning, she'd gained almost a pound since the diagnosis in late December.

[@mystery79]

I’m sorry to hear that. I lost my cat Tyler in 2012 to kidney disease. I still miss him. He absolutely hated the prescription diet. Toward the end the vet said to just let him eat whatever. I think with catching it early and giving fluids you can extend her quality of life quite a bit.

[@AllAboutCatsYT]

Thank you. :)

[@davidakin1481]

Sorry to hear that cutie

[@b.banner_hulk6867]

Forest ❤️ I hope she still lives and long life with you. Thanks for all the information and sharing with us.

[@Beehashe]

My bigger cat just died from Large Cell Lymphoma after spending thousands of dollars on treatments☹️. I’ll watch out for this kidney sickness in my small cat. Thanks.

[@cosmeticsandpurseswithevelyn]

Sorry to hear such distressing news hope there is an easy way to keep it under control I dont know much about that kind of deseas but had such a bad experience with my old fur daughter in her old age with Diabetes after 4vdifferent Vets and facilities thats when she let us know at the Emergency Hospital it was time she fell and was not able to move she couldnt go on anymore which was the worst experience of my entire. Heres a prayer God of healing, please comfort and strengthen Forest during her illness. Ease his/her fear and pain and guide the vet and all caring for him/her, that she may recover fully. Comfort us, too, God, that we may better care for Forest and make decisions that are best for him/her. Amen.” Wishing you and your fur baby healing prayers 🙏

[@becjenkins8033]

Last year we lost one of our youngest to kidney disease. It was a really really hard time. Finding him trying to pass away was rough. I hope Forest pulls through well and can be around a long time!

[@AllAboutCatsYT]

I'm sorry you went through that. Thank you for the well wishes.

[@vistalite]

I’m sorry that you and Forest have to endure this challenge, but I’m sending positive vibes to you both (and Wessie, too). Thank you for all you do for cats and cat parents, Mallory.

[@AllAboutCatsYT]

Thank you for the kind words, Randall. :)

[@housedesign2727mo-tl7fv]

Given that medical expenses can become very expensive very quickly pls add more ADS to your videos, I wouldn’t mind watching them fully!! & I’m sure others who’d wish to help wouldn’t either, we all know that these videos never fail to teach us something new & are always beyond informative!! Wishing you the best, go forest! 💕

[@candace0869]

My cat has Stage 2 CKD. She’s 5. On prescription kidney diet. Royal Canin Type D. She’s not the biggest fan. Need to supplement with toppings. She has some anorexia. But blood work is good, has not progressed since last august.

[@msmintjuleps]

Thanks for your honest videos.

[@catherinekittykat]

Thank you! So sorry for Forest, but glad your kitties have YOU! Big hugs! 😇😇

[@guinntessence]

I hate that you all have to go through this but I'm glad Forest is doing well. Sending love!

[@AllAboutCatsYT]

Thank you.

[@DansBasement]

Good on you for finding it early. My cat just got diagnosed. He hasn't eaten for a couple days and were worrying a lot. Were trying everything we can.

[@kleptomelly]

Thank you for sharing all these great products. All 3 cats I've lost as an adult were from CKD. Our most recent was last month. We started out with just changing her diet and that helped for about a year. After that she was on sub q fluids 3x a week and eventually 4x. We did that for about 14 months before we had to say goodbye.I'll definitely keep all this information in mind for our other cats. So far none of them are showing signs of kidney disease. Sending lots of love to you and Forest 💜.

[@tanupriyadas9058]

Can you please tell me what are the symptoms of kidney diseases in cat?

[@kenzierenea]

Thank you so much for this video! I’m never sure how to keep my cats healthy, especially as they get older. I’m so sorry about Forest!

[@bruhthisb]

Thank you for making this video, we had to put my mom’s cat down due to kidney disease

[@AllAboutCatsYT]

Sorry about the loss of your mom's cat, and thanks for watching. :)

[@loretta_3843]

Poor little Forest! Thanks for sharing this and raising awareness. All the very best with your treatment of Forest 🤞🏻

[@kidneychek]

Thank you for sharing your story and our product Mallory, we're happy to hear Forest is still playing and being herself. Sending lots of love your way🤗

[@KathyEBauer]

Thank you for sharing your about your beautiful Forest and her kidney disease. And the Kidney-Chek and other products. I currently am caring for two of my own cats, and my parent's cat with kidney disease. And my oldest dog, also with kidney disease, so can relate to your story. One of the cats was diagnosed a couple of years ago. The others, only late last year. I wish you and Forest the best. Thank you for all your videos. Best, Kathy

[@pjejjacques5185]

Thank you or sharing the information about the kidney disease indicator. As a long time cat owner, I have lost two kitties with kidney disease and it would have helped if I could have detected it a little earlier. All my best for Forrest. I know her remaining years will be happy ones.

[@valmote2639]

Thanks so much for sharing and paws crossed Forest stabilises ❤️❤️

[@tcy362]

All the best wishes to you and Forest! Am sure she will stay strong and accompany her parent for many years to come. Please take care of yourself too!

[@barhernan153]

Forest will surely live a long and high quality life with the cares you are providing. Sending much love your way!

[@MonsieurSchue]

Very sorry to hear about Forest. Not sure which stage her CKD is now and I know Dr. Sarah used to have one video saying she doesn't recommend raw food diet for cats. Please do some research on the raw diet for CKD cats though, as I do know multiple people that successfully reversed their kitty's CKD stage 1 diagnosis and the ONLY (and always) common reaction from their vets was just "surprised". You can still maintain a raw diet yet keeping phosphorous low for Forest and hope for the best for you two! Most of the "prescription diet" especially for CKD is just to increase the sodium level and force the kitties to drink water in order to flush out the poison. (in layman's terms, make your food salty enough so you feel thirsty and you'll drink more water and you'll pee). Try not to go that route if you can.

[@AllAboutCatsYT]

Hey, thanks for the idea. I've been looking into a raw diet for her and am quite willing to give it a shot. I'm not sure what stage her CKD is, as we haven't done a followup exam to confirm after beginning treatment, but it looks closer to stage IV, unfortunately. Still, I have hope that there's more we can do. Thank you.

[@ExitKiwi]

I'm so sorry to hear this but glad your cat has such a good caretaker. Forest looks like she's still having a great time and enjoying life. Would you be able to share if any of the products you mentioned (in addition to low-phos foods) may help with prevention?

[@user-ul8hu7bc6l]

Thank you. I was wondering the same thing.

[@sandravellabriffa5249]

Kisses to Forest from Malta

[@tutu5084]

I love this channel

[@furfamily5005]

Bless your heart we can hear the tremor in your voice talking about your beloved baby being diagnosed. So glad you decided to share, education is key ❤

[@TheCatButler]

Thank you for sharing your experience even though it was a tough decision. I am sure so many other pet parents have learned so much from this video. I wish you and Forest the best!

[@AllAboutCatsYT]

Thank you so much.

[@evyn9978]

Thanks so much for sharing this info - I happen to need it just now, & am very grateful. Much love & best wishes to you & Forest!

[@noizeemama3697]

Thank you for doing this video. I hope you include us with the rest of Forest's journey. It is important to show this to others so that they know what to do and options that are out there.

[@AllAboutCatsYT]

Thank you.

[@AnibalVGM]

Hang in there Mallory, good luck and big love

[@bin4ry_d3struct0r]

Last month, my cat, who is now 14 and 1/2, started eating all her food and drinking all her water. She free feeds, and there's usually plenty of leftovers. I knew sudden changes in eating behavior were an indication that something's amiss, so I took her to her vet and did a blood and urine test. The blood work showed markers of kidney issues, and the urinalysis showed a UTI. The vet suggested we do an ultrasound, which confirmed, among a host of other problems, early signs of deteriorating kidneys. After her antibiotics treatment course, I now have her on Amodip (blood pressure meds) and am also switching her food to Royal Canin Renal Support D for a low protein and low phosphorous diet. Tiki Cat Silver and Weruva Steak Frites were also recommended. I also do subcutaneous fluids 2x a week. I'm going to look into the other dietary supplements you mentioned. Anything that helps to prolong her life! The scary thing is if it weren't for her UTI, we wouldn't have caught her CKD until much later. She just got her annual exam, blood test and shots 3 months prior, so this came out of nowhere. Here's to the best for both of our feline daughters!

[@ghlmk5931]

Much love and good vibes to you and your kitty family. Thank you for sharing your story (and this product) with us. Cats are so good at hiding diseases or discomfort. I know Forest’s quality of life will be the best it can be in your careful hands.