Max–A Senior Gentleman Living Well with Chronic Kidney

Name: Max
Breed: Russian Blue
Age/Sex: 14 years 4 months, Male (Neutered)
Weight: Stable Body Condition Score (BCS 5/9)
Clinic: Housecall

Max is not just a handsome senior cat—he’s also a beloved family member who’s been living with chronic kidney disease (CKD) for quite some time. He visits Creature Comforts regularly for check-ups, blood tests, and medication top-ups. Thanks to the attentive care of his family and the vet team, Max is doing remarkably well for his age.

However, even with a steady treatment plan, things can shift subtly over time. Max’s family recently noticed he had begun vomiting more often and urinating outside the litter box—on the sofa, on beds, and on other soft surfaces. While this behavior hadn’t worsened, it raised some red flags. Was something else going on?

Over several months, Max had multiple health reviews and diagnostic tests. Dr. Fallon performed:

• Full blood panels (CBC, kidney profile with SDMA)
• Urine cultures
• Regular physical exams
   

💉 Bloodwork revealed:

• Consistently elevated SDMA and creatinine levels, confirming kidney disease
   
• Stable red blood cell count, though borderline low at times
   
• Elevated eosinophils, which might indicate food sensitivity or gut irritation
   

🧪 Urine tests came back negative for infection—good news!
 Clinically, Max remained stable, alert, and well hydrated. His heart and lungs sounded great, and his weight was consistent.

Still, the vomiting episodes and inappropriate urination pointed to gastrointestinal discomfort and behavioral stress, both of which can be aggravated by CKD in older cats.

Max’s care is all about balance and consistency. His family manages a detailed home treatment routine that includes:

• 💊 Nutradyl for joint health
   
• 💊 Calcitriol and Reprost to support kidney function
   
• 💧 50ml of subcutaneous fluids daily to keep him hydrated
   
• 💊 Rapros (Beraprost Sodium) to improve renal blood flow
   
• 💊 Cerenia and omeprazole as needed when Max shows signs of vomiting or nausea
   

Dr. Fallon opted to continue the current plan with some monitoring adjustments. Because Max’s blood results stayed stable, there was no need for new medications—just close observation.

Max’s story is one of proactive aging care. He may not be the sprightly kitten he once was, but with the right support, he’s enjoying his golden years with dignity (and a bit of mischief—sorry about the pillows!).

His vomiting has been under control with occasional medication, and his inappropriate urination seems more behavioral than medical. His family is doing an excellent job of adjusting to his environment and tracking his symptoms.

✅ Kidney disease caught early and monitored consistently
✅ Owner-managed subcutaneous fluids—a big help for hydration
✅ Targeted medications for nausea, appetite, and renal health
✅ Weight and hydration are maintained in a senior cat
✅ Strong collaboration between vet and family over time

🐾 Kidney disease is common in older cats—but early diagnosis and a steady care routine make all the difference.
 🐾 Cats may not always show pain clearly, but subtle changes like vomiting, peeing outside the litter box, or fussiness at mealtimes are worth checking out.
 🐾 Senior pets thrive best when owners stay involved and informed, just like Max’s mum has done every step of the way.

🎯 Sector 1: What Pet Owners Want to Know 

1. What are the early signs of kidney disease in cats?
    
2. Why is Max vomiting more often—is this from his kidneys?
    
3. Is inappropriate urination a kidney issue or something else?
    
4. How does subcutaneous fluid help kidney cats?
    
5. Why hasn’t Max needed new medications if his values are high?
    
6. Can cats live a long time with kidney disease?
    
7. What can I do at home to help a cat with CKD?
    

🌡 Sector 2: Medical Highlights 

1. What does SDMA mean, and why is it important?
    
2. What’s the biggest risk with chronic kidney disease in cats?
    
3. Why is Max’s hydration so important?
    
4. What made you confident to stick with the current treatment?
    
5. How often should we recheck bloodwork for senior cats?
    
6. What role does nutrition play in kidney health?
    

🩺 Sector 3: Vet's Community Message 

1.What’s your approach to treating long-term kidney cases like Max's?

2.Any tips for owners giving daily fluids at home?

3.What should other vets look out for with senior cats?

4. What’s the biggest misconception about feline kidney disease?

5. What’s your message to families managing long-term illness in pets?