The cat in our lives for 9 years had his life span shortened by
my ignorance.
Frisken (a.k.a. Boy) is part of our lives. He knows us better than
we know him. He has a healthy appetite, drinks a lot of water, and
is mentally alert.
Recently he seems to enjoy drinking more water, and eating more. It
seems he is healthy and we were happy. But he was getting
thinner.
The vet diagnosed renal failure, advanced stage.
When we got home, my wife cried, and I hated myself.
The pamphlet we picked up at the clinic had this highlighted in a
red box:
IMPORTANT
The signs of kidney failure vary but an increase in thirst is
always the first warning sign, and should not be ignored. If your
pet seems to be drinking more, consult your vet
immediately
I did not know it then.
Renal failure in cats is unavoidable. But with early detection
kidney malfunction can be slowed down, thereby extending its life
span.
Yearly check up of healthy pets is, now I realize, a sensible
thing.
The last record at the clinic of our healthy Boy was 4 years
ago.
Now, once a week he goes for fluid treatment, drug injection and is
on a special diet.