Cat losing control of her bladder

[oconnorjoy]

Susie peed on the floor last night....she was eating at the time and didn't even seem aware that she had done this. She has always been a very clean cat. She is 22 years old. On her last checkup the vet told us that she saw some kidney failure. She doesn't seem to be in any pain. I will bring her in to be checked but would like to know if this is a typical sign of kidney failure.

[Mona]

I am sorry about this. What has the vet suggested for treatment, fluids, antibiotics etc. It is hard when they reach that age to deal with for them and you.

I would definitely call the vet back for further help on this.

Mona, Honeybun and Chloe

[oconnorjoy]

Mona, my vet has recommended to watch for her fluid intake...Susie has been drinking a huge amount lately. We have decided not to force Susie to take pills unless we have no other choice...she fights it terribly...crying and spitting it out. I know I will have to make some decisions soon but am not sure if I'm ready...It is hard as Susie is still coming for lots of cuddles and is eating fairly well.

[Tina B and crew]

oconnorjoy...I'll keep Susie in my thoughts and prayers

[Traci]

In kidney disease, rarely are "pills' prescribed,...what you would be concerned about are possible supplements (i.e., Tumil K to treat potassium deficiency, etc)...and sub-q fluids at home, plus diet. Most medications given to treat kidney disease can be compounded or are given in oral suspension (as in oral antibiotics)

While it very well could be beginning renal failure, you won't know until a complete lab workup is done + urinalysis. An x-ray might show some changes since she was last seen (kidney size, etc). If the BUN and creat are elevated or there are changes in potassium, etc, then you will need to consider treatment options. It depends on how the labs look, her symptoms, need for fluids, diurescing the kidneys if necessary.

I wouldn't wait on getting a full blood profile and urinalysis done because you can never assume it's kidney disease alone. Other rule outs would be diabetes or other conditions common to age. Try not to jump the gun until you get a clearer picture of her kidney function and rule out other possible causes to the urination problem. Do please get an appointment for bloodwork set up immediately, as you know that the first sign of a problem will usually develop into a more serious situation if not detected and treated right away.

[oconnorjoy]

Thanks Traci...I called my vet and will be bringing Susie in. I really appreciate your input.