Sasha has CRF. I am simply devastated. I have spent the entire afternoon staring at her, wondering how I could have let this happen. I rationally know it is not my fault, but she has never been sick a day in her life and now she has something terminal.

The vet has asked that I put her on wet food for additional fluids - she never likes anything but dry kibble. She also talked to me about sub-Q fluids, but that it is not needed yet. I feel so helpless. I know tomorrow I will feel less lost and hopeless, but right now, I am just petting her and crying.

I'm sorry to be so pathetic. I've been trying to write this for the last 3 hours. Perhaps I should have put it in the health section. Please say a little prayer for my girl if you could.

My sympathies for poor Sasha. but it's early days right? there is so much you can do for her. If you haven't already done so, join the CRF forum. it used to be a yahoo group i think. there is tons of good info there for you.

ya water is the best thing for her. When this happened to my raggie Gabby Kitty, I put water stations all over the house and changed it frequently. She liked cold fresh water. I wish I would have had a fountain for her.

You still have many many quality months ahead of you. Just do your best and savour each day with your girl.

snugs and purrayers!
dan, smush, and angel

Oh, Tomi. I am so incredibly sorry to hear this. So sorry. You must be beside yourself. Please know that there are lots of things that can help kitties with CRF, and I'm sure that Linda, Heather, and others will have lots of advice for you. Please know that we will be saying many, many prayers for you and your girl. Take your time to grieve the news, there is nothing wrong with doing so. Sending much love and many snugs your way.

Tomi, I am so sorry to hear this. It has got to be devastating. No words that I or anyone can say will make you feel better. But do know that we shed tears right along with you.
I do not know alot about this but by your message..it is going to be hard.
My brother told me something once that has always stuck in my head (at the time one of my twins was 3 and she had to have open heart surgery)

Be prepared for the worst.....but expect the best.

Much love to you and Sasha.....this comes from the heart.

(((HUGS)))

Tomi, two things you need to keep in mind and say to yourself over and over -- it's not your fault and Sasha won't die tomorrow, next week, or even in 6 months.

While CRF is terminal, many cats live with it for YEARS!!! I've had cats diagnosed with it live 2-5 years. (Maggie had other problems, so she died sooner.) If Sasha doesn't need fluids yet, that means she probably is in the renal insufficient stage and not the failure stage. This is VERY good because you can do simple things to slow down the progression -- diet is one thing, a few natural 'drugs' will help, and then fluids. I'll be glad to help you anyway I can, when you are ready.

Right now, hug and hold her, and cry!

I had a feeling she would know! And I know that with your care, Sasha has a long time left with you; you may have to give her some extra meds, but that's ok! Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help. I'd be more than happy to send some of the natural medications Linda suggests.

Tomi, I wish I had a way with words so I could adequately say what is in my heart, but I know no matter what I say it won't take the hurt away. I am so sorry this is not what I wanted to hear. Tomorrow I may be able to better express myself but right now I am right there with you, news like this would devastate me to.

I hope the vet comes up with a treatment plan that will keep her with you for a long time. I know there are others here with experience and knowledge that may help you. She must not be showing signs of illness, this seems to have been found during a routine visit, this is good.

Hugs sweetie and give Sasha a hug for me.

Tomi, you are in shock right now with this news coming out of the blue. It happened to me too and it takes some adjusting too, but we all know your love for Sasha is unconditional and you will do anything to help her.

My blue/cream Misty had lost 70 % renal function and lived to be 20, so I hope that gives you more hope that she can still have more quality of life. Hugs coming your way

OH Tomi, I'm so very sorry!! Linda will be more help on this one than I will be. I have yet to deal with CRF and sure hope I never do but if I ever do I know where to come -- Linda!

Take your time to process the information...it is just like anything else and you need time to process what you have been told and then you can better ask questions. You have much time left with Sasha so enjoy every minute you can with her.

Hugs to you sweetie and gentle kisses to Sasha!

Dearest Tommi, I heart goes out to you, and I want to hug you and help you through this as you did for me when I was so ill. I will try to call again later.
You know in your heart and mind this is not your fault. But like we all do, we feel guilty because we want to help our babies. I have know many who have cats get it and they have many more years with med and care, You give Sasha the best of both. Give her a hug for me, Bluie is sending purrs..