My 17 Year Old Cat Is Dying From Kidney Failure. He Is OK But Suddenly Stopped Eating. Do You Have Any Suggestions?

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Anonymous Profile
Anonymous answered
Cats stop eating when they feel discomfort.  I do not think your cat is experiencing sharp pain but he is experiencing dull pain like a headache.  The best thing to do would be to have him examined by your veterinarian.  Determine if this is related to uncontrolled diabetes or progression of the kidney failure.  Fluid therapy is part of the treatment for either disease.  This cat needs at least several days of hospitalization. 
There is not a lot you can do at home.  Hospice care can include oral anti-nausea medications, Pepcid, and subcutaneous fluids (fluids under the skin). 
It is likely that refusal to eat is the first sign that your cat is starting to decline and it may be time to consider euthanasia in the next few days.
Consult with your veterinarian about treatment options and prognosis.  They know your cat the best and can help you determine when the right time is to let him go.

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Anonymous
Anonymous commented
Thank you, he is being followed by our vet. Has had subcu fluids 2 days ago. Just stopped eating 24 hrs ago. Just thought maybe someone had an idea to stimulate appetite. Know end is near. Just trying to keep him comfortable. He Seems comfortable and as long as he does not seem to be in pain will try to handle him at home as long as possible. Will not let his quality of life deteriorate. Owe him that much. Thank you for your answer.
Anonymous
Anonymous commented
Talk to your veterinarian about Pepcid (to decrease nausea) or cyproheptadine (an appetite stimulant in cats). As discussed these measures may not work but are worth a try. Good Luck.
terry rossignol Profile
terry rossignol answered
I am sorry to say but even though he maybe showing no signs of pain he is!! So please don't make him suffer!!
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Anonymous
Anonymous commented
The star fairy has been here. However most of your answers get five stars anyway. Way to go girl!
Anonymous Profile
Anonymous answered
My seventeen-year-old cat also has Kidney/Renal failure. We have seen a vet for him multiple times, and they have injected a certain medication into the nape of his neck that helped him with his dehydration problem. It has helped him live longer, since, because of kidney failure, he is always severely dehydrated. Though the end is inevitable, you must do everything you can to keep your friend comfortable. We have gotten our cat a soft bed, and we have a number of water dishes placed around the house in places he can reach very easily. We always make sure the food dish is full, and clean out the litter box once or twice a day. You must always look past the fact that your cat won't be here forever, and pay attention to the present. I hope your cat lives very long. Cats are very humble animals. They do not like to show that they are weak or in pain. Though your cat appears that it is not in pain, sadly, it is. Also, try to get him/her soft or canned food or cat treats. They like that better than dry pellets, and are more likely to eat something more appealing to their taste-buds. I hope this helps a bit!

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