Giving a Cat Fluids: An Illustrated Guide
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Your kitty needs help!
OK, your precious feline is getting up there in years and has developed kidney problems. Or maybe he or she is just recovering from an illness or surgery. Your vet tells you the pet will need subcutaneous fluids for a time -- perhaps permanently. So you're faced with the choice of either learning how to give your pet the fluids or paying an animal hospital lots of money to do it. After having given fluids to our cat Babe every other day for the past five years or so, I recommend doing it yourself. Once you've got it down, it's quick and relatively easy. Your kitty will be spared the trauma of being constantly hauled off to the vet -- and you'll save money. And if you do it long term, your pet will come to appreciate your act of love.
Getting started
What are subcutaneous (or "sub-Q") fluids? Subcutaneous ("beneath the skin") fluids are sodium, potassium, calcium and other electrolytes that are injected below a cat or dog's coat to rehydrate them -- just like Gatorade rehydrates an athlete. The fluids come in the same clear plastic bags as IV fluids given to humans, and with the same fluid lines, but you only have to put these fluids under your kitty's coat, not in a vein (thank God!).
OK, you've decided to do it yourself and it's your first time. You need four things to start:
- A 1000 ML bag of subcutaneous fluids (usually carrying the label "Lactated Ringers" or something similar and numbered from 1 to 9);
- An "administration set" - the flexible line that carries the fluid out of the bag;
- A supply of small needles that you push onto the end of the fluid line. The size - 18 x 1A, for example - is written on the needle cap; and
- A coat hanger with a hook that can be rotated so you can hang it on top of a door, shower curtain rod or other high place.
At home vet care for cats
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Setting up the bag and line
Remove the bag of fluid from its wrapper. Warm up the bag of fluid by putting it in a large bowl - a salad bowl works well - of warm water (you should be able to keep your fingers in the water; otherwise, it's too hot). It takes 5 minutes at most to warm up. Remove the bag and pat it dry.
Remove the fluid line from its plastic wrapping. You'll see a little flow-control box on the line that controls how fast the fluid comes out of the bag. Slide that little box down the line until it's about 12 inches away from the needle end of the line so it's in reach when you want to adjust the flow. Make sure the little wheel that controls the flow is pulled tightly to the narrow end of the box so the line is closed. You'll know you haven't closed it if it starts dripping out of the line -- it will, even if the line is capped -- once you hook it up to the bag!
How to do it:
- Take the bag of fluid in one hand. At the bottom of the bag is a tube-like protrusion that sticks out. On the bottom of this tube is a little rubber seal with a flap on it. REMOVE THIS SEAL WITH THE FLAP ON IT. It's just a cover that protects the sterile seal inside it. Now take the cap off the sharp plastic point on the end of the fluid line, making sure IT DOESN'T TOUCH ANYTHING (to avoid contamination) and slowly but firmly push the point through the seal until it penetrates into the tube and can't go any farther in. You'll be able to see the point entering the bag. Make sure it's in all the way in and that it doesn't puncture the bag. I've found that twisting it as you push helps. Once the point is in, bring the bag upright. Just below where you stuck the line in is a little see-through chamber where the fluid drips out. Gently squeeze this chamber until it's about a third full of liquid. Hold the end of the fluid line over the sink and push the little flow control wheel back to open the line up and drain it of any air bubbles inside (you'll be able to see them in the line). This should take just a few seconds. Stop the flow. Remember to keep the exposed end of the line from touching anything.
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Next, press one of your little needles onto the end of the exposed fluid line. Lastly, massage the bag to make sure any cold or hot spots dissipate, then test the temperature of the fluid by running some of it over your wrist, as you would with a baby bottle. It should be warm, but not hot. OK, your bag is ready to use.
Hanging the bag correctly
- You need a way to hang it though, and a wire coat hanger works great for this. Bend the hook of the hanger so it's perpendicular to the rest of the hanger, then slip the hanger's hook through the open slit at the top of the fluid bag and swing the bag around so the side with the numbers on it faces out (you'll need to see these numbers so you know when to stop the fluids).
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Next you need somewhere elevated to hang the bag, so the fluid can drip down and into the cat. Some recommend buying an IV stand from a medical supply company. That's not really necessary. If your chair or couch is next to a closet, you can swing the closet door open and hang the bag there, numbers facing you. Or you can hang it from a nearby door-frame or a wall shelf and position the bag to face you. One kitty owner says she puts a towel in the bathroom sink, puts her cat there and gives it fluids from a bag hanging on the shower curtain rod. As long as the fluid line is at least 2 feet higher than the cat and reaches it without being pulled tight, it will work. You want to position it so the bag and your kitty can become one, and you can clearly see the bag and its numbers as you administer the fluid.
Cat meets fluid bag
- Placing the cat on the couch or a large chair just below an armrest helps keeps it in place. The key is to place the kitty so he or she is parallel to the length of the couch or chair and facing the armrest -- creating a barrier to escape (using the sink will also accomplish this). Then squeeze yourself alongside the cat or just behind it. This gives the cat nowhere to go once the fluid starts. I learned this the hard way when I began giving Babe fluids and she'd jump up and walk away, giving my couch and me a saline solution shower.
- TIP: How your cat responds to being given fluids depends a lot on its disposition and how sensitive it is. If it's his or her first time, you may need to wrap your kitty up in a towel or place it inside a cat carrier that opens from the top before you can administer the fluids.
Making the stick
- OK, you've got your kitty in position, your bag armed and ready. Take the cap off the needle and twist the needle around so that the underside - the side with the hole exposed -- is facing up. This seems odd, but it lets the needle more easily penetrate the cat's coat. Keep the syringe cap nearby; you'll need it later. Pet your cat and talk reassuringly to him or her for a moment, then casually lift up the scruff of their coat between the shoulder blades with one hand - I used my thumb and index and middle fingers for this - and push the needle all the way in with the other. Try to stick it right in the middle of the loose scruff; too high, and it will poke out the other side; too low, and it might stick into the cat's underlying flesh. Your kitty won't like this.
- I've found that sticking the needle in is much easier if you pull up the cat's scruff with your left hand and push the needle in with your right. So you'll want to position the kitty so it's on your right when you're sitting next to her. Otherwise, doing the stick will be awkward and more difficult. Unless you're left-handed, which in that case you're fine. If your kitty submits to the fluids without trying to escape, then positioning doesn't matter so much -- you can sit behind her and that's fine. I suggest wearing a glove -- I use a leather garden glove -- on the left hand until she gets used to being stuck. I always wear the glove just in case so I don't have to worry about being bit.
- The first few sticks are the toughest. When I did them, I winced, certain I was hurting my cat. But it doesn't really hurt them; the scruff is loose and there's nothing inside. They still don't like it, and may yell. If the needle doesn't go in, you just have to force it in. This is one of the most difficult things about giving a cat fluids. I've done this many times, and the most our cats have ever done is flinch. The experience was actually harder on me than it was on the cat.Then I got used to doing it, and it became routine. Now that I'm on my second cat with CRF, I've discovered something about doing the stick: Position the needle touching your kitty's coat and gently work the tip of the needle up and down (or back and forth) while pushing it in. If you do it right, the needle will slide right in with very little resistance and your kitty will barely notice the puncture.
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· SO ... you've got the needle in and, hopefully, your kitty hasn't scratched your face off. Now, start the fluid flowing by sliding the little wheel SLOWLY on the flow-control box forward toward the wide end. It's important to do it slowly because otherwise the water will shoot out in a jet, and that may startle your kitty. You've probably seen on TV or in the movies the slow drip-drip-drip of an IV: you can adjust the wheel to make it do that slow drip at first, then speed it up to a faster drip later on. I've gotten to the point where I can give Babe fluids in about 5 minutes. Keeping the kitty calm and still can be a challenge even when she's used to getting fluids. Stroking the kitty and massaging her ears while making soothing sounds helps.
Bad needle? If you simply cannot get the fluid to flow, or if it only does a very slow drip, you may have a defective needle -- one with a hole that is partly or mostly closed. Try replacing the needle and see if that makes the difference.
· While the juice is flowing, keep your hand lightly on the needle to hold it in place. This will also let you know if it gets loose and starts leaking. A cat can somehow eject the needle by making a very slight move or squeeze of her coat. You'll know this happens when you suddenly see a stream of fluid running down the side of your kitty (in that case, just reinsert the needle and keep going). I try to keep my cat as boxed in as possible, with my hand either over the needle or on the line close to the needle, to keep this from happening.
· Note in the "Positioning the line" photo below how I am holding the line in position lightly with my fingers. If the fluid from the bag suddenly slows to a trickle or even stops, it likely is because the juice bulge surrounding the needle has pushed the needle to one side. Look up at the little drip chamber while you gently move the needle back into alignment. You should see the fluid start flowing again. If the line still isn't flowing, do the opposite and try moving the line gently from one side to the other, so the needle angles this way and that. Also make sure that neither you nor your kitty are resting on the line and that the line isn't crimped or twisted.
Positioning the line
What size needle to use?
TIP: The needles you typically get from the vet aren't the best quality; some call them "kitty harpoons." Make the procedure easier on your cat by requesting a higher-gauge syringe (the higher the number, the smaller the hole). The smaller needle size will be less intrusive and do less damage to the cat's coat long-term. The downside: It will take longer to give your cat the fluids because the flow of liquid is slower. I use 20 gauge needles, and it takes me about 4 minutes to administer 75 ML of fluid, Stormy's daily dose. I've found this to be a good compromise between the 18 gauge "harpoons" and the slow-flow 21 gauges. Several commenters here have recommended Terumo brand needles, which are sharper and slide into your kitty's coat more easily.
Keep your eyes on the bag!
How much "juice" do you give your kitty? You should already have been told that by your veterinarian. I give our Babe 150 ML (milliliters) every other day (See UPDATE below). That's 1.5 numbers on the bag, which is on a scale of 10. 100 ML would be 1 number on the bag. Make sure the bag is oriented toward where you are sitting with the cat and there is enough light in the room so you can CLEARLY SEE the numbers.
Keep your eye on the bag as the fluid flows, and when you've reached the recommended amount, stop the fluid by pulling back the little wheel tightly. Then slip the needle out of your kitty and immediately press a few fingers over where the needle was. (Keep them there for about a minute -- this keeps "the juice" inside kitty.)
Put the cap back on the needle. Once your kitty is taken care of, remove the old needle from the end of the line, moisten a cotton ball or pad with some rubbing alcohol and swab the hole at the end of the line with it. Then immediately stick a new needle on the line. This will help prevent any bacterial contamination from a used needle while the fluid bag sits unused. I should note here that my cat sitter, a former longtime vet tech at a major animal hospital here in D.C., tells me there's no need to clean or sanitize the line afterward as long as you put a new needle on. I like to err on the side or safety, though.
TIP: Make sure the fluid is completely shut off before you put the administration set away (I leave it hanging in a closet) by pushing the fluid line into the notch of that little dangling piece of plastic on the line (yes, THAT's what it's for!). Just remember to free the line before you begin your next fluid session. I also always position the needle so that's it's facing up ... just in case.
The Juice Creature
Don't be alarmed when you see a large bulge on your kitty's neck, back or sides afterward - the fluid takes anywhere from 6-8 hours to be completely absorbed. Don't worry, it will go away -- and so will your darling little Quasimodo. Sometimes the fluid ends up down around one of the kitty's legs, making your kitty briefly look like a Bactrian camel. This makes for a great photo.
Bargain-price fluids
Costco's pharmacy sells a 12-bag box of subcutaneous fluids for $26.09 -- a little over $2 a bag. Vets typically charge $10 or more for a bag.
UPDATE: Doctor says smaller doses more often work better
During our Stormy's recent heart exam, the kitty cardiologist asked me how often I give her fluids? "150 ML every other day" as the vet prescribed, I told him. "Why not give her 75 ML every day?" the heart doc asked. Giving her 150 ML all at once is like when you gulp a large energy drink down after exercising, he noted: "You just pee a lot of it away" afterward. The cardiologist is a sharp guy. I thought about this, and it made sense to me. So I began giving Stormy 75 ML every day. She seems to have responded well to this new regimen; the last trip to the vet showed a slight improvement in her kidney values.
I would recommend this approach to anyone who isn't already giving their cat fluids on a daily basis, in consultation with your vet, of course. It means more sticks (I downsized the needle from an 18 gage to a 20 gage to minimize the puncture) and a cooperative cat. It seems especially suited for a cat who's been getting fluids for a long time and submits to the procedure without resisting.
Any thoughts on this from fellow kitty owners?
The Yahoo support group http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/Feline-CRF-Support/ is an invaluable source on where to get the best-priced supplies, new medicines, which therapies work best and, last but not least, moral support for cat owners coping with a CRF diagnosis.
Postscript: A plea from Daniel
If you don't have a blood analysis done as part of your kitty's annual evaluation, PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE do so. Cats can develop chronic renal failure without warning and at a younger age than you might expect. And they are experts at hiding the discomfort they feel from kidney problems until their condition becomes serious. I know this, unfortunately, from personal experience. While my wife and I were dealing with Babe during her last weeks and then her passing, we let her sister Stormy's annual evaluation slide. Stormy was always the intrepid hunter, full of energy, mischievous and constantly jumping on the table looking for a treat or to swipe a bit of food. We never even imagined her coming down with CRF. It wasn't until more than a year later, when Stormy began looking tired and down, that we took her in for bloodwork. I was shocked when the vet told us she'd lost 75 percent of her kidney function. A blood analysis of her creatinine and bunin would have flagged this much earlier. The vet pointed out that a middle-aged cat going 2 years without a blood analysis is like a person going 8 to 10 years without one.
On the bright side, a regimen of fluids, a KD diet and close monitoring has stabilized Stormy, and she lives a relatively normal, if more sedate, life now. But the thought that our precious kitty needlessly lost kidney function still haunts us. So get that bloodwork done at least once a year!
- Feline Chronic Renal Failure
How to deal with all aspects of Chronic Renal Failure (CRF) in cats. - cat health information and cat safety tips
Why you should keep your cat indoors? How to cat-proof your home Which plants, foods and household products are toxic to your kitty? Find all the answers here. - Low-Cost Veterinary Care
How to obtain good veterinary care without the bite -- it's easier than you think. - ASPCA Website
- Cats FAQ
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Thanks Barbra! You absolutely can do it yourself. When I started giving fluids to Babe, it was intimidating. And she wasn't the kind of cat that would let you do it willingly, either. But she gradually became used to it, and now it's obvious she knows its good for her, because after I've got the needle in she settles down contentedly and purrs! If you have any specific questions, I'll be glad to try to answer them.
daniel
2 comments......
1, There's a far more comprehensive reference site here http://felinecrf.org/
2. Most people here http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/feline-crf-info (online practical support group of CRF caregivers) use and recommend #20 needles
3. Yes, fluids must be warmed...MORE IMPORTANT is HOW WARM? "5 minutes" may/may not do it....You MUST be sure of the temperature of the fluid, which should be 98-105F max....you don't want to SCALD your cat!
Nice to see this...every bit helps!
Outstanding hub...well written and informative without being too clinical. I think you hit just the right note with this one.
Very well done.
Thanks, Elizabeth! I've had pretty good feedback from cat people. I hope dehydrated cats out there somewhere will benefit too.
Very nice instruction site. The kitty in the images looks like my Siamese cat, Bandit. Fortunately he doesn't have CRF--yet. Pooky does and he hates the needles more than I do.
To "Dog gone": Your negative comments aren't welcome so why don't you go play in another sandbox. Many of us take this seriously. Your immaturity and ignorance is showing.
Nice little site, Daniel. BUT..... that white plastic cap on the "outlet tube" of the bag is supposed to come off the bag before you insert the spike. The spike is sterile (under its cap), but that plastic flap and the thick white plastic it's attached to (what you are calling the 'rubber seal') are NOT sterile. They are there to protect the inside, the *real* seal--which IS sterile; that seal is up at the end of outlet tube where it attaches to the bag; it is inaccessible except to the spike. If you leave that white plastic thing on the bag and stick the spike through it--instead of removing it first--you might as well just spit on the spike or drop it on the floor before you insert it. The little flap you have handled with your finger in that picture--and have contaminated by doing so--is actually put there in order for you to grab it and tear off the outer (white) seal. I'm surprised Babe has not gotten an infection from contaminated fluids!
A note on proper terminology: you talk about the "syringe" you're using here. There is no syringe being used. A syringe is a device composed of a hard plastic "tube" with a plunger. It may or may not have a needle on the end; one used for subq, IM, or IV injection WILL have a needle, but one used for feeding or giving oral meds to a cat will NOT have a needle. For this purpose--giving subq fluids to your cat--you are using a bag, a venoset (that's the tubing), and a needle. No syringe; it's just a needle, that's all.
And last--a note to/about "dog gone": what I want to say has four letters in it, beginning with an F, followed by the word "you." But I won't say that. Instead, I'll just figure your dog is gone because it ran away from the likes of you. Smart dog.
I agree. You have to pull that "plug" out first. I also think the coat hanger bit doesn't work too well. For one thing, it can easily fall off the door or wherever you hang it and it is too high to see the line on the bag where you should stop. I use the dresser because it has a knob on it that the bag fits nicely to. A hanger on the doorknob would suffice just as well especially since it is lower.
Heating the bag is a number one problem in my experience. The bag could be warm, but the fluids are always cold. Also, heating the bag causes unnecessary bubbles in the line. May not be harmful to kitty, but an irritation. I think heating is overrated.
Is that a Monoject needle (aka "Kitty harpoon")? If so, I would advise a switch to Terumo.
I use a coat hanger as well, but I hang it over the shower rod. I agree that it could fall over the door. I found that I needed the height to get the fluids to flow well.
Chris, Bill and Lori,
Ooh, I stand corrected. I've never been told that before about the flap. I'm going to add this information to the Hub immediately. And start removing it when I give fluids. THANK YOU!!!!! As far as the coat hanger goes, it's never fallen on me. Whatever works to keep the bag elevated. The shower sounds like a good idea, but I like to leave Babe in her comfort zone spot. And Lori, yes, it is a Monoeject needle (not syringe!) Are Terumo's better?
Thanks for such valuable feedback.
Daniel
p.s. and "Dog Gone" is .. gone.
Bill, I disagree strongly about warming the fluids. That's something we stress on the Feline-CRF-Support group. A cat who is sick, old, or thin needs to have warm fluids. Cold fluids rob needed calories from the cat--it takes "x" number of calories for the body to warm that fluid up to normal body temp (102º F). Kitty could (and should) be using those calories for something important. Also, cold fluids are uncomfortable, and chill the cat. To warm a bag of fluid, fill a container (sink, pitcher, pot, whatever) with hot tap water. Insert the bag so that none of the connections at its bottom are in the water. Let it sit. Periodically pick up the bag and "squish" it around in your hands to mix the fluid around inside, to speed up the warming. A full bag will take longer to warm up than will a mostly-empty bag. refill the container w/hot water again if necessary.
Tiny air bubbles are not a big deal at all. If they're in the bag, they will never make it into the tube; they'll migrate to the air-filled space at the top of the bag anyway. If they're in the tube, just run your fingers along the tube to purge it. Also, flicking sharply at the tube w/your fingers will dislodge the bubbles. Tiny bubbles like this are not uncomfortable for the cat; only large pockets of air cause discomfort--and that is only temporary at that, and very mild.
Lori is right about the Monoject needles. We call them "kitty harpoons' for a reason! Terumos are sharper, thinner, have better flow, and are a much higher-quality product than those awful Monojects. I've seen Monojects with no hole in them; I've seen them with "spurs" on the tip. And that's just the stuff you can *see*; makes you wonder what's going on "under the hood." Terumos cost the same as Monojects, so I see no reason not to use a better product on my kitties.
Oh--I forgot. Hangers: I just use those plastic ones w/the rotating metal hooks--like you see in clothing stores. They will hook over just about anything without slipping off.
I've been through three vets since I began giving Babe fluids and no one ever mentioned that a different kind of needle was available. Anything that will make things less stressful for the cat is good -- thanks again.
Daniel,Thank you for a wonderful resource. It's very well done and understandable. There are a couple of things I would add, though.One is the importance of bleeding any air out of the line before each fluid administration, esp. when using it on a new bag for the first time.Second is gently rocking the fluid bag back and forth a few times after warming to make sure the warmth is evenly distributed, then testing the fluid temp by allowing a bit of fluid to run across your wrist, just as you would test the temp of formula from a baby bottle. It's always safest to err of the side of a bit too cool rather than any too warm.Thank you for putting this page together. It'll help many folks who visit here.Laurie
Hi Laurief,
Someone else suggested bleeding the line, but my experience has been that I rarely see bubbles in the line, and if I do, they're small and aren't going to hurt the kitty. I have bled the line once or twice when I saw a stream of bubbles. As far as doublechecking the bag temp., several people have recommended that. I've always gauged the temp by handling the bag, but I think I'll take your suggestion so I know exactly how warm the fluid is before administering it.
Thanks!
Daniel
Hi Whbos,
Sorry - responding belatedly. Thanks for your nice message. I hope Pooky will be OK
Thanks!
Daniel
Daniel, bleeding the line is critical when starting a new bag of fluids. When you close the flow control to attach the venoset to the bag, all of the line below the flow control remains filled with air. It's important, after attaching the venoset to the bag and a needle to the venoset, to open the flow control long enough for the air to bleed out (until a steady stream of fluid comes out of the needle). THEN it's ready to begin fluid administration. Laurie
It's lookin' good, Daniel!
About Terumo needles: I have never heard of a vet who recommends them or uses them. Some have never heard of them. Go figure. Monoject must have some kind of choke-hold on the vet market--I don't know. But you can get them from medical suppliers, the same places you can order cases of fluids--Brico, Thriving Pets, etc. They're hard to get from local places like Costco or Walgreens, though. They're really worth chasing down. One member of the Feline-CRF-Support group said: "Compared to a Terumo, sticking my cat with a Monoject is like poking a knitting needle through leather."
Thanks, Chris. If I can get my wife to take yet another photo, I'll replace the one I removed with an updated correct one. I'd never heard the phrase "kitty harpoon" before or was told of Terumos; I'm looking for some now. This is the real value of Hubs, I guess -- that it's a two-way information exchange, and everyone benefits.
Excellent first hub..Congrats 2u.
Ps, i saw your profile about your liking for Lily Alan. I can see your attractiuon 2 her..i have a hub about her you will enjoy;)
I look forward to more of your hubs!
;)
hey thnx. yup, I love Lily Allen. i'm going to read that Hub!
Daniel
im just watching Lily now on tv uk, bbc3 10.30:)
just tried to access that, got "available in the UK only" msg. i'm jealous!
"The first few sticks are the hardest" never a truer word spoken. Your hub contains very supportive information. I appreciate your effrot.
Your fan.
Mon.
thanks Monitor. that's nice to hear.
Daniel
Doh!!;)
hi daniel and others!
i have been doing subQ on my kitty for almost three yrs now.
nice of you to take the time to do a step by step demo.
i have a couple things to add or expand on.
*first, after watching your video and looking at your photos,
you might want to try inserting the needle by making a tent
with the fur. can be done by placing the index finger and middle
finger at the bone area above the shoulder blades, below the neck
and using thumb pull up on skin to form a pouch like tent.
*another tip re insertion as it looked like you might have done a double poke,
its best if you don't succeed the first poke, change the needle because when its drawn out of the skin it gets bacteria on it and reinserting it can cause infection.
*re terumo needles and needles in general. DEFINITELY get the terumo ones.
they come in "ultra thin walled" which is the smoothest for insertion. also when the vet first have me needles they were #18!!! this is wayyyyyyyy too big for cats.
horrible that they even think this is ok. i am currently using #20 (the higher the number the smaller the barrel). this works the best i think for flow and size of poke, which is important because after a period of time there can be scare tissue developing which will make some insertion sites tougher to poke. i have recently started giving the subQ everyday and if i keep with that i will go even lower possibly to a 21/22/ or even 23. the flow will be slower with those, so if you choose to try them, know that you must have a very patient kity!
*re bleeding the lines. i am very freaky about the air bubble thing and check it before each treatment. its a quick glance and worth it. the place i commonly find the bubbles is in the elbow part of the line and near the needle base. with the cap on i just flick the elbow and the base with my finger and the bubbles usually loosen and move toward the tip so when you run a bit out before hand (i do whether theres bubbles or not) they will clear out.
*re heating the water. i let the bag sit (below the line insertion site. its important to not get anything near there and to keep it sterile) in hot water, not scolding but hot enough that its more than warm) let it sit for about 45 min. then i test it. i do think it helps but i don't think it ever gets that warm.
that's all i can think of right now,
hope those bits are useful
kim and meeper do!
Kim and Meeper Do,
This is valuable info. Thanks for taking the time to post it (i've been away and just got this). I generally do "make a tent" when I insert the needle. I don't always replace the needle if the first stick is unsuccessful. Thanks for pointing that out -- I'm going to start doing that. I'm planning to order Terumo needles when I run out of these Monojects, but just getting a higher gage is a good idea -- never thought of that.
hope meeper (your kitty?) is doing well!
hey daniel,
glad to be of some help.
meep ROCKS! he is fantastic.
he is currently circling like a shark
as he has veto'd the first three can offers
today lol! just had his treatment and purrs
thru the whole event. ... thankx for asking.
hope your kitty is doing well.
kim
Where can I find 20 x1A needles online ?
Thank you
I'm keeping this EXCELLENT information for frequent referencing. I must start this process tomorrow on my beloved Siamese pet of 20 years. I still have one big worry: am I going to be able to handle this while crying my eyes out? I'm so horribly sad at seeing my girl begin the downslide to the end of her life.
Mom
Dear KP's Mom,
I've been away and just got this. How's the fluid-giving going? This process may sound distressing, and it is at first, but I can tell you that it soon became routine and even a pleasure to see our precious Babe plump and sassy with a fresh load of "juice." The fluids helped give her a normal life for years.
thanks for your comment
daniel
Hi, thanks for the info. I have now given my 16 year old cat Svetlana 3 SQ treatments and my heart breaks each time. I keep reading info to make sure I do not miss a step and try to catch some helpful hints. I never thought I could do it. I will start warming the fluids now! Your posting was more helpful than my vet! I also have a 15 year old kitty who is getting her yearly senior Catizen bloodwork this month- I am hoping we do not have to go down this path with her, too. My heart is already breaking knowning Svet is in early renal failure. We have symbiotic relationship :) She is the ying to my yang... I will do anything to help her and ensure she is comfortable. Thank you for the very detailed information and layman's way of explaining the steps. And to the goober "BLAIZE" with their comment about "there is more /better info out there" that you allowed on your post-Go stuff a sock in it and leave in a Blaize of Glory... Were you raised in a barn? You are obnoxious & rude.
Anyway, again for the info. I saved it to my Favorites for easy reference!
Nancy
Just wanted to thank you for the informative site. Got news today that my foster kitty, Shadow is positive for FIP. It's fatal but I'm supporting her with fluids and anti-inflamitories, and nutri-cal until she's ready to pass on. It's fatal.. but I don't think she's ready yet.. she has a lot of spunk and spirit. Today I watched the vet give her fluids.. but she didn't go in a whole lot of detail other than showing me where to stick. So when I did it myself for the first time tonight and a bubble under her skin came up I got a bit scared that I was doing something wrong. I'm glad to know that bulge is normal.. it's gone now anyway. Which makes me feel better.. poor Shadow, she's such a little trooper! I stuck her twice while trying to give it to her and she just curled up in my lap comfortable as could be.. Thank you for your site, it's very reassuring that I'm doing things ok :)
Dear Shadow's Mom,
I'm sorry to hear your kitty has FIP. I didn't know about this until I read your post. I'm so glad to hear my article helped you. Our precious Babe passed on in May, and it was hard to lose her, but comforting to know I did all I could to make her comfortable while she was alive. Shadow's lucky to have such a loving mom.
-daniel
thank you daneilmybrother for the excellent info re iv fluid treatment i have been giving henry my dog treatment for several weeks -i like the terumo needle, but have had trouble removing the needle. began using monjects but 18x1A seem bigger than terumo 18 x1 any info? also i initially stored the fluids in the basement where it was cold - when i moved bag upstairs - process went better and faster - and i concluded it was temperature change - my vet had never heard this.
dear Sooz. thanks for your comment. People who responded to this Hub said Terumo needles were smaller and therefore caused less discomfort to your pet. As it turned out, I never got the chance to try the Terumos and compare, so I'm not sure why they would be harder to remove. Anyone else care to comment about this? As far as storage goes, I've always heard keep medicine in a dark, cool place. Hope this helps. - DMB
very informative hub thank you daneilmybrother for the excellent info re iv fluid treatment
thanks Lgali. hope your kitty (if you have one!) won't need this
Hi,
First, let me tell you that your site gave me the confidence to give my cat sub-Q fluids. It was the only one that made it easy for me to understand and reminded me it's okay to have humor...always a fear squelcher. My husband and I have actually gotten pretty darn good at it, if you will pardon the immodesty. Two questions: 1-One of my cat's rear feet is swollen to twice the size (I have reduced hydration from 100ml 1x pday to 1x every 2-3 days), and they feel a little cold.2-I keep asking my vet about high blood pressure, as my cat cannot see much, which seemed like it happened rather suddenly after a crash 2 months ago (he had hyperthyroidism, cured with the radioactive iodine treatment, and has CRF, both of which I understand are contributing factors, and he had the iodine treatment for hyperthyroidism 4 yrs ago), but I think my vet, who is a delightful individual, thinks I should just be grateful for the remaining days that I have with him. My cat is 20, but he is a cantankerous little fighter, and seems to have the will to live if given the chance. He is still social, hungry, and interested in things. He has taken to wanting to sleep in the tub, however, if that has anything to do with anything.
Are these reasons for concern, and should I be more proactive in determining underlying factors for the swollen foot and possible high blood pressure? Basically, I am wondering what we need to really be watching out for after learning how to give fluids successfully.
Thank you sincereley for your good works,
Sheila
Sorry-I realize now that you are not a vet, and cannot give medical advice. I think the picture of you looking like you're wearing scrubs kinda' threw me off. Does not diminish the helpfulness of you site, however!
Thanks again.
Dear Sheila,
It makes me really happy to hear my hub helped you and your kitty. Those conditions sound familiar, because Babe had a hyperthyroid condition on top of kidney and other problems. But the fluids and a combination of a great vet and new anti-inflammatories gave us many extra years with her we would not have had.
Hope your vet can help you with the mystery of the swollen foot. Sounds like your kitty is in pretty good hands.
Best wishes,
daniel
hello, My cat is 15 and i took her to the vet because she was dehydrated,so the new Doctor injected the subcutenious fluids into her armpit instead of the spot shown on pictures ,besides i knew where exactly itt was supposed to be injected. So now my cat has a fevermswallen red paw including the entire armpit and if could call it an arm.. and is unresponsive and cannot walk or step on that paw ,because all the fluid dropped into that area.. please help me and let me know what she has... thank you .
dear Anna,
sorry i'm not a vet, just a cat owner. i do know that the subcutaneous fluids produce a big bulge in the area where they are injected -- and that gradually goes away after the fluids are absorbed. but i've never seen subcutaneous fluids injected in a cat's armpit. it sounds odd but there might be a good reason. i would ask -- insist -- on another doctor's opinion at the vet where you go -- or get one elsewhere.
hope this helps and your kitty gets better fast.
daniel
Thank you for this great post. I have been giving our Siamese, Slim, sub q's for several months now and it is good to know I have been doing it right! At first the results were amazingly positive, but recently he has begun vomiting every time we give him his fluids. We've reduced him to once a week, but he still vomits and dry heaves every time. I was wondering if you or anyone else has had this problem? Unfortunately, our vet has no idea what might be happening.
Thanks Jenny!
Maybe you could ask your vet if some bloodwork or other tests would help determine why Slim's getting nauseous from the fluids. i never experienced that in the 5 - 6 years I gave our Babe fluids. If your vet doesn't know why, the only thing I could think of is to divide his fluid dosage into two smaller ones given at separate times on the same day and see how that works.
Hope it works out.
daniel
Where have you found the best prices for the lactated ringers and iv sets? My vet gave me a prescription, so I can buy them cheaper, elsewhere. I found some pretty good prices online, but since you've been doing this for several years, maybe you can give me some advice for the least expensive way to do this. Don't get me wrong.I'll pay whatever it takes to keep my baby well and feeling good, but there's got to be a cheaper way. Thanks in advance.
Hi David,
Wish I could help you on this but I always just bought the fluids from our vet. Think they were about $15 a bag. I know there are lots of petmed places online but you don't want to take chances. I'd ask your vet techs if they can recommend one or join a cat bulletin board and ask the people there. I've gotten lots of good feedback about caring for kitties at the link below. good luck!
I'll do that. Thanks Daniel.
If anyone wonders, yes bubbles are harmfull to kitty! Bubbles in your blood can kill you
Thanks for these great tips! Being a pet-sitter, I've been thinking it would be a valuable skill to learn how to adminster sub-Q fluids. Now here is my own Sameow to teach me.
Our vet taught me to push the needle into a tent above Sameow's shoulder blades, but someone mentioned administering fluids in the hip area. Has anyone else administered fluids into the hip? Where exactly would a person make the 'tent'?
Thanks to everyone for your help,
Jen
i'm trying to type right now around the body of my kitty, Stormy, who's licking the condensation off my bottle of beer!
as long as you get it under the cat's coat, it should be fine. the "tent" above the shoulders is easiest bc it's the loosest part
good luck!
dmb
I just came upon your site. I have been doing fluids every other day for my cat for over 1.5 years now and lately she has been protesting a lot. I checked and found that my vet supplies me with NIPRO needles, #18. I am for certain going to ask for #20 since my cat is small, has always been that way - she's just 6 lbs. But have you heard of Nipro? Are they comparable to Terumo? I'll get some Terumo anyway I'm thinking, to compare. Thank you for all the information. It is very helpful.
dear Prachee,
thanks for your comment. I haven't heard of Nipro needles. Another poster strongly recommended the Terumos, but I always used the Monojects, which someone described as "kitty harpoons." i would say use the smallest needle you can that will stay in place throughout the subcu process. if they're too small, they may fall or pop out and then you'll get a saline solution bath.
hope you find the right ones for your precious kitten.
dmb
Thanks Daniel.
I have had my cat walk away with me holding the needle. I used to do the hanger at first but then a cat sitter showed me how to keep squeezing the bag really hard while administering the fluids...a little difficult to do by yourself but it ensures great flow. She never had it up high and that didn't seem to affect the water flow.
Regarding warming the bag, I have had no luck. It never warmed up. So now I keep the bag wrapped in a woollen blanket inside a drawer between uses.
Prachee
I just gave my cat fluids for the first time. The needle kept falling out. My vet told me it doesn't need to be in very far (just about 1/2 an inch).Perhaps it needs to be in farther?
Drops of fluid are now dripping out of the sides of her mouth. Have you ever had this happen?
dear Wendy,
fluid coming out of the mouth -- I've never seen that before. where on the cat are you putting the needle into?
I know that the fluids give cats a bad taste in their mouth, especially when you start out giving them fluids. maybe your cat was drooling a bit.
as far as the needle coming out: i just recently found out our cat Stormy, Babe's younger "sister," has beginning CRF (chronic renal failure), so I'm back in the fluids business, after doing it for 5 or 6 years with Babe.
anyway, to start out, the doctor gave us these "Monoject" 1.8 needles that are pretty long -- probably qualify as "kitty harpoons." cat owners generally don't seem to like these, but I have to say that, when Stormy jumped to get away on her very first "subcu," the needle stayed in, because it was so long. maybe you could try these before going back to a shorter needle (1.5's). I've transitioned to a shorter needles AND a smaller gauge -- it has a smaller hole. sticking your kittty with this is a lot easier, and there doesn't seem to be a big difference in the time it takes to administer the fluids, despite the smaller hole.
hope this helps.
DMB
Hello. I just went through alot with my British Blue. He was a beautiful cat. He was only 10 and a half when he just stopped eating and drinking. Then we found out he had lymphoma and his kidneys were failing. It happened so dam fast. All in like a month in a half. I was giving him fluids under the skin and that is what led to his demise. He had so much fluid in his lungs towards the end, that is what killed him. My advice is to just be careful with how much fluids cause that can kill also. My baby couldn't breathe. It was so sad. He sounded horrible. He was crying to me and I couldn't help him. So just watch out. Listen to your vet yes, but sometimes, I don't know, use your own jugement also.
Hi again. A couple of months ago I posted that our cat suddenly began vomiting after receiving his fluids. After extensive testing (and vet bills!) we have a solution: he was reacting to Normosol R and is now on Lactated Ringers. Simple as that! It's pretty unfortunate that our vet couldn't figure that one out--we ended up having to take him to the university vet school.
Anyway, I just thought I'd report this just in case someone else's cat decides to start vomiting, too.
I'm on my second cat who needs fluids now, and I've never been given anything by the vet but Lactated Ringers. I've never heard of Normosol, but thanks for the head's up. Sounds like something to steer clear of, barring any special situations.
Thanks, Jenny.
Oh, and Kakes: so sorry to hear of your kitty's rapid decline. very traumatic experience.
but are you sure the fluids led to your Blue's decline? Because, our precious Babe, the "star" of this Hub, succumbed in the end not to kidney failure, but to a failing heart that resulted in congestive heart failure. she went from being normal late one night, and the next morning going rapidly downhill right before our eyes. it was congestive heart failure; her lungs filled with fluid because her heart wasn't pumping properly. but I don't think the fluid in the lungs was due to subcutaneous fluids. I don't know.
If there's a vet or vet tech reading this, I'd welcome any information on this.
Well I give my first sub-Q fluid to Kira tomorrow morning. She's down to 5 pounds 8 oz and the vet recommended sub-Qs to give her a few more months and more importantly, comfort as she lives out the rest of her 18+ year life. Thanks to your site and the links within it, I have the courage and confidence to do the deed.
Susan,
thank you -- that makes me so happy to know I could help in any way. I know how hard it is dealing with your precious kitty being in declining health. 18 years plus! -- bet you've both been through a lot together. giving Kira a better quality of life for however much longer she's around will be good for you both.
peace, and happy holidays
daniel
Pricked on the tip of my finger by a used kittie needle...
I poked my finger with a used needle that was inserted in my cat Cameron three days ago(I was giving him IV fluids). If I know for sure that he doesn't have Rabies, am I at anty other health risk or should I seek some treatment of some kind of test to be safe? Thanks,
Peter
Ouch! Paul, I've pricked my finger with the sub-Q needle a few times over the years. I immediately swiped it with alcohol and put a band-aid with neosporin on it and never had a problem. I don't know of any specific health risk, but I'm not a vet, and maybe you should call your doctor to make sure.
daniel
I have to start giving my cat fluids and I'm scared. She's hard to handle. For example they use a muzzle on her when they clip her nails at the vet. Anyone have success doing this on a very stubborn cat?
kd,
I'm on my second cat who needs fluids, our younger cat, Stormy, and she fights me sometimes and doesn't want to submit to being given fluids. Like this morning. I actually have put off giving her the fluids until she's in a calmer mood. When she's drowsy or napping can be a good time, because you can whisk her into position and insert the needle before she's had time to get defensive. I've found that if you can casually do the stick almost immediately after getting the cat in position -- before she can get worked up -- it's a lot easier.
What I do is hang the fluid bag on a coat hanger from an opened closet door next to the couch in our living room. That allows me to hem Stormy in at one end of the couch, facing the arm rest. I then position myself on sort of a diagonal so my body blocks her on the side and from behind. This makes it easier to do the stick.
Sometimes she'll turn her head and make motions to bite my hand as I pull up her fur for the stick. In that case, I slip a leather glove on my hand to protect it.
I know the vet will wrap cats up in a towel when they put up too much of a fight. I've done this when giving fluids, but it's tricky to keep the cat confined in the towel while making room for the needle stick.
If all else fails, take her to the vet and have them do it. Maybe you could watch the techs and discuss a strategy with them.
Hope this helps. Happy New Year!
daniel
I was instructed by the vet to give my cat 100 mL of sub-q fluids twice a week because of a kidney stone. After about two times or three times, my cat became sort of lethargic. He stopped playing his favorite game which involved him running up and down the hallway chasing dry food. So the vet said to only give fluids once a week but he was still somewhat lethargic so the vet said to stop fluids. My cat got a little better and played more but still remained slightly lethargic.
About three months after this, my cat was put on a low dose of Prednisolone for a skin allergy. Two weeks later he had to be euthanized due to congestive heart failure and kidney failure. He was perfectly fine until his second or third time getting sub-q fluids. The day he started the fluids he had an x-ray that didn't show any heart problems. He had only been diagnosed with a grade 2/3 (out of 6) heart murmur. I believe the sub-q fluids caused the congestive heart failure and that the Prednisolone is what finished him off.
lbb87,
thanks for your comment. so sorry to hear what happened with your kitty. giving a cat with a heart problem fluids can be a problem. I know because our beloved Babe, seen above, in fact had a heart murmur. The cat needs fluids to keep her kidneys functioning, but all that fluid in her system can pose a risk if the cat has a heart murmur. So vets try to strike a delicate balance between the fluid therapy and protecting the heart. I'm not a vet, and I don't know if it was right to prescribe those fluids for a kidney stone. Nor do I know whether Prednisolone played a part in your kitty's death. Maybe there was a lack of knowledge on the part of your vet, or your kitty should have been more closely monitored, I don't know.
I can tell you this: Babe, and other cats, have lived much longer and have had a better quality of life due to fluid therapy. In the end, Babe also died of congestive heart failure. But she was 18 and had many other problems.
You raise an important issue, though, one that I take to heart because I'm doing this thing all over again with our younger cat Stormy (the tabby pictured above), who has CRF and a heart murmur also. I recently had an ultrasound done of her heart and a consultation with a heart doctor, who said it wasn't too bad and to bring Stormy back in 9 months. I'm letting the heart doctor and our regular vet work out what's safest as far as fluids go.
Best,
Daniel
I just finished giving Nadia her first subq treatment. Needless to say she was not happy and I had to reinsert the needle twice - while she was squirming and trying to bite me. I know it will get easier - thank goodness my neighbor (who is an RN) came over to help me. I could not have done it on my own. The part that will take some getting used to is inserting the needle - I feel like I am not getting it in right.
Keep trying, Nadia. it will get easier. I've found making the stick farther back -- more toward the mid-section of your kitty -- can be easier. But in any case, it's nerve-wracking to push the syringe in the first few times (and even after that), but just do it. it doesn't feel good for the kitty but it doesn't hurt her. Just make sure it's going into the loose section of her coat, not too high up and not too close to her flesh. And before I make the stick I always rotate the syringe so the hole side is facing up. Seems to go in easier that way.
good luck
daniel
Thanks for the words of encouragment! I am sure it will get better with time. I have to remember that Nadia's Siamese disposition surfaces from time to time. I have been lucky that she has done so well in her 20 years and look forward to her turning 21 in May!
- Gretchen
Thanks for all your posts and sharing what you have gone thru. I have been giving my 5 yr old Siamese, Graycie, SubQ fluids since Sept. It seems with time, it's getting harder and harder. I don't know if you or anyone else has experienced this but she hardly has any "loose" skin to grab. Up until now, I have only been able to grab a tiny bit of skin on the sides of her front legs. If I even attempt to go for skin on her shoulder blades, she'll growl. I'm out of ideas.....frustrated as I end up sticking her several times with each administration of fluids. Any thoughts/suggestions is apprecaited.
Soraya
Dear Soraya,
you may have to wrap Graycie in a towel in order to administer the fluids. I give my cat Stormy subcu fluids. She's a small, brown tabby and doesn't have a lot of coat to grab onto, so I had to experiment finding different places to stick her. you don't have to do it just between the shoulder blades; you can also move farther back toward her tail, or down a little on either side of the kitty. when I started doing it, I used a towel to keep her restrained, but that makes it harder to lift the fur up. I eventually found that wearing a leather work glove to protect the hand that's lifting up the coat works pretty well. also, how the cat is positioned can affect how much of her coat you have to grab. if she's curled up or tensed up, it's much harded to grab some coat to lift up, so make sure she's in a straight line. what I do is try to make absolutely everything is ready to go before I bring Stormy onto the couch -- the fluid bag is in position hanging on the top of the door, the line and needle are resting so I can grab it immediately for the stick, I have the glove on (when needed,) and the pillows are arranged so she can't escape easily. the very last ingredient is the cat, and I try to make the stick almost as soon as I set her down, before she can get defensive and hissy.
thanks for commenting, and let me know how it goes.
daniel
Thank you, Daniel for your "hub". Our cat, Chip, is 13. We've been giving him sub-q fluid for about a month now. He is so resistant we can barely get 50ml down before he launches himself out of our hands. We're really getting frustrated. He's got a very stubborn but sweet personality so this is breaking our hearts. Seems we're keeping him going against his determined will. I keep telling him it's good for him. Maybe we'll try the towel wrapping thing. We're down to 2-3 times a week, but I don't know if we can take it. Any encouragement would be appreciated.
Blessings to you!
I had the same problem when I began giving Stormy fluids. It's really hard to give fluids to a cat that's determined not to get them. So I'd say try the towel, but also see if you can use two people -- one to hold Chip down, the other to administer the fluids. I've also found that wedging in the kitty in between yourself, some pillows and the armrest end of a couch helps. That blocks him from going forward or backward. Of course, if the kitty decides to "go vertical," than that's really tough. The last resort would be to take him to the vet to have it done and ask the techs there for suggestions. I know that that could quickly prove expensive, however. I'm already at fluids every other day with Stormy. If you can manage to somehow get fluids in your kitty, I've seen with Stormy and our late, beloved Babe that both cats came to understand that the fluids made them feel better, and began to accept being given them.
Hope this helps, Patti.
daniel
I want to thank you personally for this article. We just had our older cat injected with electrolytes and vitamins and he had the bulge on the leg. We were concerned (as we'd never seen this before). Wasn't able to find anything else anywhere on the net about it...until we came across your article. Very well written and informative.
thanks Chris. it's really nice to hear that from a fellow feline "parent". Don't fear the bulge! :)
Found your site....thought I might be able to find anything on GOOGLE :)))) I left the vet without looking in the bag and found all the separate peices without instructions on how to attach everything. Thank you for putting this up! My kitty just got 100ml and I am sure he had a very easy time because you made it possible!
Thanks, Ana. glad to hear my Hub helped you out. hope your precious kitty is juiced up and feeling better soon. and good for you for being such a good "kitty mama" :)
Great hub. Our little kitty recently lost her appetite and started the potential downward spiral of fatty liver syndrome. Fluids greatly help her. She recently has made a couple bowel movements and her appetite is returning to normal :) . The vet said to administer 150cc's once a day which seems like a lot... She isn't drinking on her own but its likely due to the fact we're giving her quite a bit of fluids. Shes slowly regaining her appetite and starting to rally for us. Just wanted to thank you for the good article, its great for building some confidence.
Couple tips, vet tech told us to pinch a little hard when youre making the tent, this way the cat is focused on the pinch and not the needle. The 20's are definitely better than the 18's in my short experience, our cat would constantly shift around with the 18's. 150CC takes about 4-5 minutes. We usually give our cat a break and go to a different spot halfway through. Talking to our cat helps a lot and above all, be confident. Cats can definitely tell if youre nervous and frustrated. Bringing those emotions in with the procedure can make it more stressful for the cat which makes it harder for everyone.
Good luck people, subq fluids can be nerve racking but after a few times it becomes routine and GREATLY helps our kitties.
thanks for relating your experience with fluids, Jason. glad the hub helped. I agree that the smaller gage needles work better overall even if it takes a little longer to administer the fluid. and you're so right about your mood affecting the kitty. I always try to give the fluids first thing in the morning (after I fix my coffee, of course!) when I'm calm from sleep. I make sure I'm the only one in the room, talk in an affectionate voice to our kitty and even put on some classical music. I've never tried the pinch but that sounds like a good technique to distract cats starting on fluids. Once the fluids are flowing, I give Stormy a long, deep ear massage, and that seems to calm her. I wouldn't give a cat fluids when I was pissed off, definitely not.
OK, good on ya, mate.
daniel
Am so happy I found this website since my 20 plus year old cat, Tom, needs to be hydrated for a few days. My instructions from the vet were no where near as clear as yours (he didn't say anything about warming the bag). I just gave Tom his treatment with the help of my husband & grandsons & everything went well. Thank you again for your detailed instructions -- I couldn't have done it without reading & rereading your every word.
that is so nice to hear, Marie, thanks. it's hard giving fluids those first few times but it does get easier -- for both you and your kitty. 20 years plus -- that's impressive. hope he stays juiced up and healthy for many more years.
daniel
My kitty is on Normosol-R. Just like one of the earlier posts, vomiting is a problem. Other sites suggest that this is a cause of Normosol-R. I'll be going to the vet tomorrow and requesting Lactated Ringers.
Hi Belinda,
I don't why you would be given Normosol, but I've used Lactated Ringers for 5 years on my kitty Babe and for the past year or so on my kitty Stormy and have never had a problem -- they've always felt better after their fluids. Good luck and let me know how it goes.
daniel
Best tip from our vet: if your cat is on a dry food diet, serve soft food while administering fluids. This is great incentive -- our cat actually looks forward to the treat and is happy through the procedure. Be sure to check with your vet before changing your cat's diet considerably though.
I think that anyone doing this should join the CRF group at Yahoo and get the real info on what is available.
I never buy supplies from the vet. I pay $2.50 for each 1000ML bag of fluid. The sets cost $3.00 for the good ones and $1.00 for the low end ones.
http://members.verizon.net/~vze2r6qt/supplies/
http://www.dmi2.com/OnlineCatalog_c120444.html
I believe the heaviest needles are the best as they take less time but if your cat is uncomfortable use what works best.
Again go to the forum.
Doug
Genee,
I never thought of that, Good suggestion. Thanks!
Doug,
Thanks for these two links. And the CRF forum is a great resource.
daniel
great hub, great dedication well done.
thanks Mike!
I agree with Doug about the forum on Yahoo.
Similar - http://felinecrf.org
Also for those with high potential for getting bit or scratched, a cheap pair of welders' gloves from Harbor Freight gives good protection at least half-way up to the elbow. (My daughter-in-law's cat educated me about the flexibility of a cat that is not happy).
My cat is going to the vet for a re-check of a "virus" that he still hasn't fully recovered from (1 month later). Vet gave subQ fluids last time in and if he needs it again to get him jump-started ... I might as well do it myself & save a bundle.
Thanks, Kenny
Oh, if your concerned about the hanger giving way...
1) try an 'over the door' bath towel hook (more available & much cheaper than an IV pole and more sturdy than a hanger)
2) If your chosen treatment location isn't near a door, an inexpensive coat hook or peg could be mounted on the wall
-kenny- [~:
thanks for the tips, Kenny. welder's gloves? hope I never have to deal with a cat that requires those! :)
Hi danielmybrother-
Thanks so much for this hub. When we gave Couscous, our beloved Manx, fluids about 18 yrs ago it was a 2-person undertaking, but it wasn't too difficult, since she was very cuddly & trusting, willing to endure the discomfort we caused her.
Last night Clover was an entirely different story-she's high-strung, somewhat suspicious, & wants any handling to be on her terms. For instance, she loves being on my lap, but only on her LEFT side, not her right. She was totally unwilling to be positioned on the couch, so we put her on my lap, where she insisted on listing to her left.
Try as I might, I can't quite make sense of the photo titled Positioning the line. Is your back against the couch back? Which end of the couch are you on, & which way are your knees pointing? Your model's rear is backed into the corner, yes?
When we gave Cootie fluids I knelt on the living room floor, with a towel under me. I backed Cootie in so she was lying in between my legs, & DH did the sticking. Unfortunately we couldn't do this now w/Clover. I know you won't see this in the next 30 mins, so good luck to us tonight!
Hi Sherm. Thanks for your comment. Is Clover taking the fluids OK yet? Your experience made me realize I should add somewhere in this article that you should let your kitty decide what's most comfortable for her/him as far as where and how to sit, if that's possible. Between your legs with another person helping sounds like a pretty good position. Is that working? I wrote this hub on the assumption you're giving the fluids solo.
As far as the "Positioning the Line" photo, the kitty is sitting in a corner of our couch with her head facing the armrest. I'm sitting also facing the armrest and on the edge of the couch at an angle, so my legs wedge her body in diagonally. I've since added a pillow that I put in front of my knees to block the kitty in even more. Fortunately Stormy (in the photo) has calmed down now that she's gotten the fluids for a while. She used to leap vertically up and away, leaving me fighting a squirting fluid line! Once I make the stick she's OK except she squirms sometimes. I keep my hand on her head and give her a deep ear massage/scratch during the fluid session. This helps calm her and it also helps keep her from moving or escaping.
OK, good luck and lemme know how it goes ...
Thank you SO much for this Hub! My 12-year-old Zoe was just prescribed 100 ml/day of subQ for 10 days to get her stabilized (then have her blood rechecked), and while the first two days went OK, my little 5-pound princess fought me like crazy today, until I was in tears (I've shed so many tears over this cat in the last 4 days, I think *I'm* the one who needs fluids now!) and beyond frustrated. I tried her on the coffee table with a towel on it, then with her between my legs, and each time she squirmed and clawed to get away. Your suggestion to put her on the couch, facing the armrest, is an excellent one, and one I will definitely try when we've both calmed down a little!
One question, just from your experience with both your furry friends - the vet said to give Zoe 100 ml, once a day, for 10 days. If I consider today a wash, is that dooming the whole process to failure? She's drinking water pretty regularly and eating some, and while I know that the subQ solution has more in it than just water, it would really help me not to panic to know that I'm not killing my cat by missing one day of subQ fluids.
Many thanks! Lisa
Lisa,
Thanks for your comment. My experience is that missing a day would not be a problem if your vet is trying to see how Zoe responds to fluids. He might tell you to go one more day to make up for it. But if Zoe has advanced CRF or some other serious condition, than you'd probably want to take her in and have a vet tech give her fluids if she keeps refusing to be given them. I'm not a vet, so you should check with him or her to make sure.
You sound like a very loving kitty mama, and Zoe is lucky to have you. I know how heart-wrenching nursing a sick cat can be, Lisa, and a big reason I wrote this Hub. Best of luck with your little princess.
daniel
Silly to blame yourself for not doing blood work. They get it whether you have blood work done or not.
Many thanks again, Daniel! I went back to the vet for a "tutorial" on how to get fluids into Zoe (I wasn't able to use the couch trick, although I think that we've both calmed down quite a bit, it may work now). The vet tech showed me how to "scruff" her by grabbing her by the scruff of the neck, which of course is how mother cats carry their kittens. She showed me how to scruff her while "tenting" the skin with the left hand, and it worked! I've even noticed that while Zoe still squirms a bit toward the end, she's much calmer and I don't have to hold her as tightly each day. I won't say that either of us enjoy it, but now I know you were right when you said it gets easier! I can definitely tell that she feels much better when she's hydrated. Many thanks again for your reassuring words. :-)
Lisa
p.s. The vet & tech didn't seem at all phased that I had missed two days of fluids - they just gave her some additional (150 ml) fluids and pushed her blood test back a couple of days.
p.p.s. We just finished the fluids about 10 minutes ago, and Zoe is now sitting on my lap, purring. :-)
Lisa,
This makes me so happy to hear. You just have to take it one day at a time and settle for the small victories. Keep up the good work. Stormy says to give a shout out to Zoe :)
Thank you for this site. I needed some encouragement tonight. I've been giving my 17 year old thyroid issue cat fluids for about a month now on my own and some days are easier than others. Tonight was a hard one. I went through several needles and had to wait a few hours before trying again. I try to give him fluids every day but I miss some and that's okay. I let him drink milk while I'm doing it and that keeps him still. Treats don't work. Congrats to everywhere that has tried this.
My last cat HATED subQ fluids. He was so Stressed by it. Only cooperated at the vets because he was SCARED to death there. I got pricked and was bleeding trying to do it myself and the vet said forget about the cat, take care of yourself. His sister who is 20 years old was just diagnosed with kidney failure. I got her the special food which is very expensive but I will NOT give her subQ injections as vet recommended twice a week. She is lively, alert, happy, eats well, no other symptons so I am not putting her and me through that and when it is her time to go, its her time to go. Period.
I just started giving fluids to my 15 1/2 year old cat. I'm not very good at it, but I keep trying. She's supposed to get 150 ml. three times a week. We don't always get the full 150 ml. administered before she decides she's had enough and gets up and jumps down. I'm not too concerned about that, because the vet tech. said not to worry if we could only do 100 ml. Today though, as well as the last time I did fluids, there was no bump under the skin in her neck. I'm wondering what I might be doing wrong. Last time, I got air into the line and subsequently into the cat. This time I checked the line and ran fluid out into the sink before inserting the needle into the cat, to try to make sure there was no air in the line. Today we almost got the full 150 ml. into her, but no bump under the skin in the neck appeared. I kind of heard a sloshy sound near the top of her shoulder, but didn't feel a bump there either. I only hope I didn't put air into her again. Also, she's very furry, and it's hard to know exactally where to poke her. I'm frightened that I will stick the needle in the wrong place and hurt her. Our first attempt included my husband, and I ended up sticking the used needle in my finger. It hurt like heck, so I try to be very careful with the kitty. And no more husband help...he's much too critical...expects me to be a vet tech., among other things! :) Anyway, has anyone ever given fluids and not had a bump emerge?
Oops, my kitty has been getting subq twice a week for a year now. Today I made a mistake and used the old needle instead of the new one. What could this affect? What should I watch for? Thanks for your website!
Hi Sylvia,
You're welcome! I can tell you that I've actually done that before and it didn't seem to affect my kitty. But I'm not a veterinarian, and I think you should give your vet or local animal hospital a call and ask them to be on the safe side, especially if your kitty displays any signs of an infection, like being unresponsive or having peeing problems.
Good luck,
Daniel
To Mary and Andrea: Sorry for the delay in responding to your comments/questions. We've been busy with our new, non-feline baby :) and that's taken me away from Web stuff. Mary, I can understand not wanting to do this. It can be a pain, and the medical care you give your pet is a personal decision. But fluids could prevent your kitty from needlessly suffering and prolong her life. Couldn't you have the vet techs or a cat sitter who knows how to do it give your kitty fluids?
If anyone else has a suggestion ...
To Andrea: I've given fluids to my kitty and only a small bulge appeared, because the fluid kind of slid down on one side. I wouldn't worry about that. As far as sticking your kitty, I think the main thing is to be sure you're lifting up her coat first, and when you stick her, the needle is more or less parallel to her body and not pointed down. As far as the critical husband, sounds like you've made the right decision!
DMB
Thank you Daniel. Kitty appears to be fine.
I would second your suggestion to have a vet tech come do the fluids. That's what we did for a few months to get kitty used to the procedure. Now our vet tech comes sometimes and we do it ourselves the rest of the time. Once kitty got trained she was much more cooperative.
Congratulations on the addition to your family!
thanks, Sylvia! glad to hear your kitty's adjusting to the fluids. our Stormy used to fight me but she soon figured out the fluids make her feel better, and she sits quietly most of the time now while getting them
Thank you, Daniel, for posting this fine guide. I read it when I need reassurances about how to give my kitty fluids, a process that sometimes leaves both of us in tears.
I'd like to add my suggestions for making it easier/safer:
1. CHECKLISTS. I taped a daily injection checklist [warm the bag, prepare treats, disconnect the phone, clear & un-kink the line, Pinch&Poke, DEEP BREATHING, clean & sanitize afterward] next to where I give the injection, and it's prevented a few mistakes & oversights. I check the list twice: Once during setup [I then I take a 5-10 minutes to breathe & relax], and then just before I get the kitty. There's also a checklist for setting up the new RLS bag every week.
2. I use masking tape to mark where the fluid level should be when the injection is finished on the RLS bag.
Thanks again for your very thorough guide.
Thanks, Anna. I think this could be a big help to kitty "parents" starting the fluids regime. Deep breathing -- definitely a good idea! The masking tape sounds like an excellent way to guarantee a uniform dosage. I usually do it just by looking, and I know some times I'm either shorting my kitty or giving her extra fluid. Once you've been doing this a while I think some of these will become automatic for you. At least that's been my experience.
Glad you enjoyed the hub. And I hope your kitty thrives under the care of such a devoted mom :)
This is such a good tip. Instead of bringing your sick cat to the vet, it's great to know that there are also first aid solutions that we can do at home.
Thanks Ann,
Doing this not only saves you vet fees but I think it's less stressful to your kitty than putting her in a carrier, driving to the vet and having a stranger do it. I'm a year into doing this for our 15-year-old kitty, Stormy, and it's obvious she's figured out it's good for her, and she rarely tries to get away now.
Hi Daniel,
Just wanted to send you a big thanks for your detailed instructions; they were a big help when I was starting to give our kitty his SubQ fluids a few weeks ago. And this is the only place I learned about moving the wheel slowly...a very helpful tip! It made a big difference in getting our cat to stay still for the fluids. I also got 20gauge needles & they're much, much better. Thanks again for your help! -Megan :)
you're welcome, Megan. It's really nice to hear that this has helped someone, because I remember how difficult it seemed starting out. Hope your kitty will do well with his/her fluid regimen.
daniel
Thanks for this great site. My cat Milo was just diagnosed with Kidney disease- we tried the KD food- but his levels still got worse- so now he needs Subcutaneous Fluids. We took him to the vet they showed us how to do it- he was very calm and had no problem. But now at home, he's not playing along. I can get the needle in- but as soon as we start the flow- he screams out like he's in pain and wants to dart! And has, every time- no matter how much I try to pet him, hold him.
I make sure the IV bag is in warm water first- so I don't think its that. I'm thinking I need to do a much slower flow? Or could I be doing something wrong and the liquid is going to the wrong place? Or is this normal for a cat to hate the feel of the liquids?
Hi Mike,
Thanks for writing. I've never heard of a cat reacting like that to the fluid flowing in, but it doesn't surprise me. I would try starting with a much slower flow, a real slow drip, drip, drip, and then see if you could gradually increase the volume of fluid as Milo gets more comfortable with it. What gage needle are you using? Because I have to stick her every day, I use 21 x 1As on Stormy (aka "21s); it's a smaller hole so the flow is slower. If you're using 18 x 1As the flow is going to be stronger. If you're seeing a continuous stream of liquid going through the little chamber below the bottom of the bag, that may be too much for Milo.
So, a lower gage needle and a slower flow may help. Let me know how it goes.
Daniel
Thanks! Right after I wrote this I tried for the slow flow and it worked! And then if he started to twitch or get upsset I slowed it down even more or stopped it til he calmed down and started it up again- it worked! He had no problems- sat calmly and purred. Phew! Not sure of needle size- got them from vet- but seems pretty big and the liquid flows out very fast.
The weird thing is- the chamber below the bag is totally full- so I can't see it drip to be sure its all working right. but obviously as I see the liquids in the bag go down- I know. Glad I found this blog!
Mike,
That's great to hear! I remember how hard it was when I started giving fluids. When Milo gets used to it after a while you should be able to increase the flow. And when I give fluids to Stormy, I always accompany them with a deep ear scratching and massage to distract and calm her.
As far as the little chamber below the bag, it sometimes gets flooded and then you can't see the flow. Just invert the bag and squeeze the fluid out of the chamber and back into the bag until the chamber is at least half empty. I like it almost completely empty because I can see the flow better.
Good luck!
Daniel
Thanks Daniel for the best information that I need so urgently! I'm a nursing sister and was not sure that the vet give me the correct information about Sub -Q.
Now I will do it. One tip: In ICU they use a 150ml Burette Set. Ref 011-C7002 You connect it between the bag and the line. Fill the Burette with the exact amount of Ringers, and close the big bag of. This way you make sure that only the prescribed amount of fluid is in.
I've been told, even if your cat drink a lot, they urinate more than the orally intake. That the reason for sub-fluid.
Thanks again! There is hope!
Hi Elma,
You're welcome! So glad to hear this helped you. I've never seen a Burette. Probably not needed as much with house cats as with ICU patients but you never know. That's true about cats, especially CRF cats, drinking a lot. We've have at least 3 "water stations" around the house; a big bowl in the kitchen, a plastic glass on the bathroom floor and a cup on the bedroom window shelf where Stormy lounges, so she always has access to water. It's amazing how fast those cups get used up.
OK, good luck with the Sub-Qs.
Daniel
I just gave fluids to my cat for the first time and she has a huge bulge above left leg and close to her neck. I got very worried that I may have done it too close too high up instead of between shoulder blades. Is it dangerous to insert needle too high up. I thought it was lower but she kept moving. I called my Vet but they are gone for the day.
Hi Daniel,
I apologize for posting on your page, I thought this was a public forum and did not realize I was posting on your personal page. I am a little confused and was trying to get help with first time giving fluids to my cat.
thanks, Patty
Hi Patty,
I welcome your questions! This comments section has kind of turned into a public forum because so many readers have posted questions and comments about giving a cat fluids here, and that input has been invaluable.
I wouldn't worry too much about the bulge. It might pose some discomfort for your kitty but otherwise shouldn't be a problem. I've filled my cat Stormy's leg up many times; sometimes the fluids just migrate there, but they eventually are absorbed. That said, I would try to avoid sticking your kitty too close to her head. Between the shoulder blades is best because the coat is loosest there and there's more room. If you want to alternate places where you stick her, you can move back farther toward her hind quarters or pick a spot a little bit on one side or the other of her coat.
Good luck.
Daniel
Daniel,
thank you so much! You are not going to believe what I did. I just went back to the bathroom where I tried to give fluid and had the bag hanging and when I gave her the fluids I only got about 1/2 the amount I was suppose to give her because she jumped up. Anyway, I was so obsessed with the bulge that I left the switch open somewhat and all the fluid is gone. I am going to Vet tomorrow anyway so I might just bring her back to get have them help me again.
Since you are so generous with info can I ask you one more question?
Muffin finished eating the other night and was cleaning her paw when all of a sudden the right side of her body became paralyzed. She eventually was able to move but her gate was totally uncoordinated and wobbly. Now she is not showing any signs that it ever happened. The vet said she can not tell me why or what happened. Muffin is 16 and has a UTI and beginning stage of Kidney disease and has lost a lot of weight but eats non stop. Have you ever heard of this paralyzed state in a cat that lasts for about 2 minutes?
thanks, Patty
Hi Patty,
I've never heard of such a thing. But I'm not a vet, so maybe you should ask other veterinarians or the vet techs where you take Muffin, or inquire whether some tests are needed. Sorry you lost your fluids. Oh, and by the way, if you're looking to buy cheap fluids, Costco sells them for like $24 a box of 12 -- a little over $2 a bag. Just need your vet to give them a prescription.
Good luck!
Daniel
Daniel,
Thanks!!
Wow, thats awesome!
She is feeling so much better already. She is on antibiotics for 21 days. She was so confused and afraid but she has been cuddling up with her sister Fluffy. She hasn't done that in years and it is so cute.
Thank you so much for responsiveness and empathy! It is appreciated more than you will ever know.
Patty
you're welcome, Patty. glad to hear Muffin and her sister are cuddling!
Hey,
I guess the Paralysis situation was a sign things were coming because Muffin had an all out seizure. I am trying to make her comfortable but this is really painful. She is eating a lot and still plays so I am going to continue to nurse her back to health but I am so sad. Dr said since she is 16 years old and no history of epilepsy might be a brain lesion or tumor and doesn't know if I should move forward with a specialist because of the cost and her age. He offered a script for phenobarbitol but I am not sure if it will be too much for her with kidney disease and make her too lethargic.
I just wish I could make it all better for her. She has a huge appetite and seems like she has more energy with the fluids though.
thanks
Trying to find out if it's bad not to refrigerated the subcutaneous fluids Lactated Ringer's solution after each use. I have never been told by any veterinarian that it must be refrigerated after use, but just read it online on several websites that it should be refrigerated after each use. I have been giving subq fluids to my mother's sick cats and was never told about this, so is it bad that I have been giving these cats subq fluids that have not been refrigerated after each use?
@Patty: How's Muffin? Hope the paralysis has passed. You're doing everything you can to help her, and that's all you can do. It's tought, I know. Hang in there!
@Sonia,
Thanks for writing. I have never heard of refrigeration subq fluids. I've been doing this on and off for 7 years, and no vet I've dealt with has ever given me refrigerated fluids. I think they have a long shelf life because of the salt/electrolytes in them. I would ask your vet just to make sure.
Daniel
Well its going well a few weeks later. It's still a pain to get him to be calm- but once the squirming stops- it seems to go well.
The Dr also has him on special food. The KD Hills formula. He hates it. Barely eats it and always wants his sisters wet non prescription food. The Dr said its better that he eats. Does anyone know of any other types of food that he my actually like? Is it OK that he eats non KD prescription? And if so- what should I be on the look out for to not feed him?
Hi, Mike. Sorry, I've been out of town and just got this. We had the same problem with our cat Baby, who had CRF for 5 years before she passed, and her sister, Stormy, who's on a CRF regimen. Just like your kitty, Stormy doesn't like the Hills KD wet, and basically will only eat the first scoops out of a newly opened can. She does eat the dry KD chow however, no problem. Are you giving your kitty the chow also? There are several kinds of KD foods; Royal Canin makes a moist one that comes in pouches. Maybe ask your vet if they know of some other brands of KD?
Something I found that encourages Stormy to eat the wet KD is to mix a teaspoon or two of baby food into it, and make sure it's a baby food that contains meat. Ex. Turkey vegetable, beef and peas, etc. As far as alternatives, we also supplement Stormy's wet catfood with something called Tuna for Cats that she likes. At this point, we've settled into alternating the KD wet with regular wet cat food from Trader Joe's, just to make sure she eats something. Our vet, like yours, said the most important thing is to make sure the cat eats enough to not lose weight, bc that's a downhill slope. Guess you have to use your best judgment and strike a balance.
for the mommy of Siamese, Slim... My siamese was also throwing up as part of his RF. The Vet told me to get human PEPCID (10mg) give the kitty 1/2 of the tablet per day. This has almost eliminated the vomiting in my Siamese (12 yrs old = 64yr in human years)
hope this helps
diane
We give our cat 300mls of hartmanns solution a day(ringers solution),100mls a time ,eight hours apart. The only way to keep her hydrated and well.Our vet has inserted a catheter under her skin, the collar of which is stitched in place, so we dont have to stick needles into her, just attach the iv line to the catheter.I also use a burette in order to measure the fluids accuritly.I wrap a soft bandage under and over the hub of the catheter between fluid administrations, this prevents any pressure sore developing on her skin, I then put a light weight cat coat, good snug fit, that I bought online on her so that she can't accidently claw out her catheter. she is as happy as the day is long! all the best to every one caring for sick cats. what an emotional roller coaster it is.
Thanks again for this site. Milo suddenly took a turn for the worse today. 3 weeks ago he had blood work done and everything was stable. But over the past week or so he wasn't eating as much- and then last night refused altogether. I took him to the vet this morning and his kidney levels were at a horrible 200. The vet said basically with kidney disease a cat teeters on the edge of a cliff- and Milo sadly fell off of it. He is now at the vets for the weekend as they are hoping they can figure out the cause and can reverse it. Keeping my fingers crossed and not sleeping all weekend.
Mike, so sorry to hear about Milo, we've been through this many times with Cherry,she has had three admissions in the last four weeks, hence the amount of fluids we now give at home, which i'm glad to say is working really well.I'll mention a few things we give to her incase it's of help to you,you may already be giving Milo the same. The lack of appitite is so common with renal failure cats and the important thing is that they eat something, great if it's renal food but it's not the most tasty, and if you're feeling sick any way...We give Cherry an appitite stimulant,She has mirtazapine, 1/4 of a 15mg tablet every four days. We've been through the nightmare of trying every food imaginable and find this works very well.At present she eats dry renal food having refused it for months. We also give her Zitac(cimetidine) 1/4 of a 100mg tablet twice a day.Renal failure cats get gastritis from the high urea levels, this helps. If Milo has taken a turn for the worse, does he have a urinary tract infection? has your vet checked for this? also very common in renal failure cats, maybe He needs antibiotics.As you know I'm sure, these cats also get anaemic, the kidneys produce erythropoietin, which stimulates red blood cell production, this can be affected in a renal failure cat. Cherry has epo injections to stimulate her red blood cells and is also on iron tablets at the moment. She has regulur PCV and HB checks as well as the usual blood tests. If Milo is anaemic, He wont fell much like eating.Other medication Cherry is on, Benazecar 2 1/2 mg daily, they can get hypertensive, she's not luckily, but this improves blood flow to the kidneys, She also has Kaminox, potassium and vitamin supplement, 1ml morning and evening,as they can leak potassium from their kidneys.Her potassium level is checked often. She has Renalzin,a phosphate binder on her food as well. I put her tablets in a capsule! easier of her and for me, though she's as good as gold. I hope this helps and i really hope Milo feels better soon.
Thanks. He's still at the vets. I was hoping to take him home today- but that didn't happen. His levels are still bad. Tomorrow they will do an ultra sound to find the underlying cause. I understand that some cats take 5 days or more on IV to bring BUM and CRT numbers down- I am hoping this is the case. It is very costly- but I'll deal with that down the road. I just want him home.
Milo has passed away. Thank you so much for this site. He got so sick so fast. In the end I talked with 3 vets and a specialist. All said the same thing- his numbers were so high- they couldn't do much. 255 BUN 16 CRE They tried fluids for 3 days straight until his breathing became very bad. They then realized he also had a heart condition. This if course means- they can't be as aggressive with therapy. I took him to a specialist to at least find out what was causing all this. The specialist agreed they could look into that- but prognosis wasn't great. Within 10 min of that decision- Milos breathing became worse (they had to put him in an oxygen tank) and he wasn't really moving. The decision for everyone but me was clear, it was time. For 2 hours I fought them on it- and asked every question I could. But poor Milo simply wasn't going to have the strength or healthy heart and kidneys to pull this out. It is a very sad time here. But I thank you so much for this site.
Thinking of you Mike, so very sorry. You did every thing you possibly could.Milo was a much loved cat.
Mike, I'm so sorry to hear about Milo. It's clear you did everything possible to give him a good life. I know how painful saying goodbye is because I've had to do it with our Babe (the cat pictured above). You were a great kitty dad.
daniel
Sooo Sorry to hear of your loss of Milo, Mike.
Wow, what an awesome site. Thank you, Daniel. Blessings to you :)
thanks, Debbie! it's nice to know people appreciate this.
daniel
Hello and a big thank you for such great information. I have been giving my cat fluids for about one month. It has been very successfull, but all of a sudden he's resistant to it. Unlike a previous post about resistance, it's not when the fluid goes in, but, when I'm trying to put the needle in. I don't think I'm doing anything different. I tried making a tent in various places around the neck and shoulders to see if that would help and he just does not want to be stuck. Any suggestions? Thank you.
Hi Doreen,
our cat Stormy sometimes will fight me a little when I try to stick her. I get her in place and then give her a deep ear massage, pet her, and talk soothingly to her. Did you change the way you were giving him fluids at some point (like the location or needle size?) That might have unsettled him. Changing the needle size might help. A smaller needle like a 20, instead of an 18 (it will say "1 x 20" on the side) may be more comfortable for him. I wear a leather glove on my left hand (nearest the cat's head) just in case I encounter resistance and have to restrain her while making the stick, bc when she's not in the mood, Stormy will try to bite, or act like she's going to bite, once in a while. The last resort is to wrap kitty in a towel in order to keep him in place. I would ask your vet next time you go to see if they've seen this before and have any ideas.
daniel
Fantastic article. Luckily I have never had to do this for any of my cats buts its good to know that it isn't as daunting as it may first appear.
thank you for sharing your experience in such detail.
thank you, Kate. I'll hope you won't need to use the info here for your kitties!
Daniel
Great site! We just started our kitty on sub/fluids. We just discovered he has added problem of fluid on lungs.Well just confirmed today. Alittle upset as even thought vet sees the fluid he will treat until councils with a radioligist. He told us it was ok to still admin the sub-q fluid. Im worried about doing that. So stressed about all this. He is having trouble pooping too so vet but him on ducolex. Hasnt had a bowl movement in a couple of days. Is it common for cats to have bowl movement problems with crf? Thanks Larry
Hi Larry, It's such a worry when you have a sick cat.There is an excellent web site run by feline vet specialists (feline advisory bureau), www.fabcats.org There is information there for cat owners and for vets. there is advice on giving sub cut fluids and also on every condition you can think of that affects cats. all the very best to you and your cat.
Your site is wonderful. We've been giving our 14-yr-old Phoebe fluids every other day for just over two months now, and still have problems because she's a willful little wriggler. But we manage and she seems to be thriving. Aside from all the good tips, what I love about your site is seeing that so many people have bigger problems than I do. At least I don't have to wear gloves, let along welding gloves! Once in a while when Phoebe totally defeats us I'll take her to the vet the next day to give myself a break. Also, I'm sure that when I'm stressed out she picks up on it, so a vet day gives her a break from me too.
Thank you so much for this account. It helped me FINALLY be successful in giving fluids to my cat (with the help of my partner). What worked for us: warming the fluid, having treats to give kitty while the fluids are going in, and sticking that needle in with confidence and no hesitation. While he was squirmy and obviously in distress before, now he barely lets out a peep. Thanks so much, again!
Fantastic and comprehensive article everyone who has a companion kitty should read...a MUST read educational article! Over years; decades, my friend and I have rescued and nurtured many a cat...our feline friends usually live way beyond the usual 'expected' lifespan and, invariably, some have developed renal failure...so far, I would estimate that we've had to administer Sub-Q fluids to 10 cats. One, Samauri Sam, needed nightly fluids for 2 years. We sustained her easily and she grew to love the warm liquid, specially during the colder winter months. We have always been successful (knock on wood) thus far. You are right when you say some of the needles are kitty harpoons....dull and useless. I have grown to be able to detect a dull or damaged needle almost immediately upon attempting to slip it in the tented nape neck of my cat.
this is an incredible hub. Useful and interesting, thorough and complete. Thank you.
Thank you for your site. I am now in the process of trying to give fluids to my Mr. T. and he is resistent. I have been successful at times, but not without a "fight." He is a sweet kitty and will not scratch or bite me, but doesn't like the fluids. I have picked up some helpful tips on the site about methods and kinds of needles I can use.
Thank you Betty, Lucky Cats, Deb Culmer, Kathy, Cherry's Mum, Larry and others of you who have expressed your appreciation for the site. Like Kathy, I have found it really is a morale booster to know that you're not alone in dealing with CRF, and that others are out there struggling with far worse situations. I'm now on my second cat who needs fluids; our precious Babe, the brown-and-white calico pictured above, passed away 2 years ago. I gave her fluids for years, and they not only extended her life but contributed immeasurably to her quality of life, along with anti-inflammatories and other drugs now available to ailing kitties. Now I'm giving fluids to her "sister," Stormy, the brown tabby pictured farther down in the article, and they have stabilized her and given her a semblance of a normal life. She's been on them for a year now.
I thought I had a lot of experience with fluids until I read Lucky Cats' comment above that she's administered fluids to 10 cats! It's really important that you all have communicated that cats not only DO get used to fluids but they eventually come to appreciate them because they figure out they feel better afterward.
Thanks again for your comments.
Daniel
Reading just the captions and the tips at the end gave me just enough confidence to do this for my cat. I suppose I'll read the entire thing and feel even more confident. :) Thank you so much for writing this!! I've never had a cat with kidney problems before and I've had 8 cats, so this whole thing has caught me completely off guard. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience!
I am so glad I found this article! I've been a nervous wreck for the last 24 hours after being told my fiance' and I will have to give our cat fluids subcutaneously for a couple of days to see if her kidney values improve. I'm still scared about doing it, but I know I have to do it (he can't) and that this will make her feel much better.
A friend of mine sent your site to me as a link. Her kitty received sub-q's for several years. She thinks it might help my Nikki kitty's last days be more comfortable. Nikki appeared well for most of her 12 years. Recently, she suddenly stopped eating and became very thin. I took her to the emergency vet (our local vet isn't open on weekends). After tests, it was found that she has hyperthyroidism, fatty liver disease and a Grade IV heart murmur. I was shocked - I had no idea she was so sick. I'm sure she is somewhat dehydrated - although she will lick up a plate of melted ice cream and also water. My concern is that the fluids could cause problems with her heart. After 2 weeks on the thyroid medication, we had tests done. The vet said her Bilirubin (sp?) reading was the highest she had ever seen. My Nikki is going to die. I know you're not a vet, but do you think it would be worth trying sub-q's? She is very lethargic. I don't want to cause her even more suffering. I have an appointment to talk to our vet on Monday, but if anyone has any suggestions to make her more comfortable, I'd greatly appreciate them. Thank you.
I'm sorry. I guess I'm distracted and heartsick about my kitty. I didn't realize this is not a forum, but your personal page. I apologize for intruding.
Update on my kitty. Vet says she's pretty certain Ms. Rag has kidney failure and the best thing we can do for her right now is to keep her on fluids to keep her comfortable. For 3 weeks, we had the vet administering the fluids (we just couldn't do it, I tried 3 times and gave up) but now that this is going to be long-term, we MUST succeed at giving fluids. I do feel a bit more comfortable since the last time I posted, probably because I watched them do it about 10 times.
SueinSD- I'm so sorry to hear about Nikki :-( This link may help you gain more insight on liver disease,
http://www.marvistavet.com/html/body_hepatic_lipid
Good luck-Jamie
Hi, this is great info! I could have (I think) done this for my rat, fritz. She was at the vet and had this done a few times. The last time she got fluids (yesterday) There was quit a bit of fluid that leeked out, with blood mixed in.I have never seen any blood leak after a treatment. Not on a cat or dog and not on my rat. Until yesterday. She had been very lethargic but was eating applesauce via a medicine plunger. Yesterday after the fluids she began jumping/twitching. She seemed to be more alert/awake but was not wanting food or water. She passed not even 12 hours after the treatment. I keep thinking about the blood mixed with the fluids I saw leaking out of her-and the odd jumping. She did not "look" right to me. If fluids are not given properly is there danger to the animal? Are these symptoms of fluids being administered improperly? Thank you for your input.
Hii. May I know abt how long it takes for the fluid to disperse?
Thank You so much for your wonderful site..My cat Little Mau was just diagnosed with CRF...I administer 100 ml of lactated ringers a day...Today is day 4...Wish us both luck....
Just came across your site and found it extrememly helpful and encouraging. I just started giving my 17 yr old cat fluids - all went pretty well being this was my (and her) first time. Your site gave many good ideas. BTW - someone recommended lining the bathroom sink with a towel and putting the cat in the sink while hanging the fluids from the shower curtain rod. My cat seemed very comfortable in her little "nest" - which after I first put her in I spent a few minutes just massaging her and loving her. When I started the fluids she really didn't react too badly and as we continued, and I continued massaging her during the process. Seemed to work perfectly. Thanks again for your suggestions!
I have to do the same to my 16 year old cat. =[
But when I read "The Juice Monster" you have NO IDEA how glad I am that it says it's okay.
I have my cat her shot today and I have never seen that bulge happen before! I got scared out of my wits, I thought I was going to kill her.
But it's fine, and how long should it take for the fluids to stop being bulgy?
It's been about 6 hours since I gave it to her. My mom keeps telling me that I'm going to kill her and that I did it wrong...=[ I'm scared I hurt her.
If you can, can you email me to rheannaromero@yahoo.com
I'd like more help when I have to give my cat her fluids and how to keep her calm.
I gave my 19 year old Siamese fluids for the first time just now. She was calm the whole time! Did not flinch or squirm. A trick I did (maybe it will help others): I showed her all the equipment beforehand so it was not a surprise. I also talked soothingly about what I was going to do right before. It calmed me doing it and I think the calm transferred to Gypsy. BTW Daniel, your site helped a bunch! I felt better and in more control of the situation after reading your guide.
Rheanna, when I got this done for the first time at the vet, it took about 18 hours to absorb fully. Today was my second time doing it so I am in the same boat as you. I read somewhere that it could take up to 24 hours. I also read that you shouldn`t give more fluids until the last batch has been absorbed.
I was recommed to Dr. James Miller by a close africa friend and Dor.James is a specializes in small animals and he was able to sell for me erythropoietin for my sick dog was close to dieing but Dr.James came to my rescue by selling me some EPO drug with a perfect dosage now my baby is strong and well…contact James Miller: dr.james-miller@dr.com ..Tell him Sonia from California recommended him to you.
I just found out a few days ago that my cat has chronic kidney disease. They had me start him on sub Q fluids: 75mL 2x per day or 100mL daily. The first 2 days it went great, but for the past 2 days I haven't been able to insert the needle. My cat, Gus, stays totally still for it, but I can't get the needle in. I have tried both 18g and 20g needles.
Any advice?
PLEASE, PLEASE CHANGE THIS: Need to make running some fluid through the line to get the air out a separate bulleted item, between installing the needle and massaging/hanging the bag. You say to run a little water over your wrist to check temp, but anyone who skips that thinking they have temp OK will be injecting a whole lineful of air into their cat! And every time the line should be checked and any big air bubbles removed. Also, bag can be warmed to body temp by having it in warm place such as under your clothing for a while (warms faster if sloshed around frequently). Otherwise, thanks for all the helpful info/pictures/encouragement. Best wishes to all the cat-caregivers out there....
Thank you so much! I actually have to give my basset hound puppy fluids, and I am so nervous about the process. Seeing you explain it step by step took some of the fear out. Thank you! Also, how do you change the needle exactly?
I just wanted to pass on some info about obtaining the lactated ringers without a prescription and at a reasonable price. AllegroMedical.com sells both the fluids and the needles at very reasonable prices with no prescription required. I know how expensive it can be sometimes getting supplies through a veterinarian so I thought this info might be helpful to someone. Thanks for the great site and the helpful info. Purrs!
hey, to all the recent commenters above: apparently I stopped getting notified when people comment on this article, so I haven't checked back here for a while. Sorry! Going to address these asap -- and hopefully figure out how to receive my notifications again!
Daniel
oh, Sue, this is meant to be a forum, and people's comments here have been invaluable in helping me improve this Hub, so please feel free to join in!
Daniel
Hi Cherrys mum,
I'm responding belatedly to your very informative posts above. Thanks so much for such detailed information. Our cat Stormy, the brown tabby featured in the main photo of this article, is 16 and has CRF, and eventually I, as others have, may find your recommendations about the meds and treatments quite valuable. I'm glad to see we're not the only ones who decided it's more important for the kitty to eat -- something, anything -- than to keep trying to force KD on them. Stormy has always eaten the KD chow, but no matter how many brands we tried, she didn't like KD wet cat food. We now give her regular cat food from Trader Joe's, and she loves it and has gained weight. OK, hope Cherry is doing OK, and thanks again for your posts.
Daniel
Hi, I have a CRF kitty who will be 16 soon. The vet recommended sub-Q fluids, but I am terrified to do this to her. I want her to be happy, not afraid (especially of me), and though she has moderate crf and is very small, she plays and runs and seems very happy. I am absolutely torn about what to do - how do you decide if it's worthwhile to do the fluids or not? Anyone's input is greatly appreciated!
Lula's Mom,
The tabby in the main photo above, our kitty Stormy, is 16 and has had CRF for about 2 years. The thought of starting her on fluids was painful for me, because I had gone through that with her sister, Babe (the other cat in this Hub) for almost 5 years, and we had always thought of Stormy as the super healthy, wild and care-free kitty. But I knew what a difference it would make, so I started the sub-Qs on her, and though she fought a bit a first, she now accepts them readily, is not in the least bit afraid of getting them, and is doing fine, still occasionally even making a daring leap or two or scrambling out of the living room at high speed. I can tell you that giving your kitty fluids is most definitely worth it, that she will feel and look better because of them, and that YOU'LL feel better when you see that.
Hope this helps!
Daniel
Thank you, Daniel, I really appreciate your feedback and advice. I am feeling better about the prospect of doing this, now. I'll be getting a lesson at the vet this week and start trying this at home. I'll be sure to update you on how it goes!
Hi Reb Furr,
Thanks for the site recommendation. I couldn't seem to find the lactated ringers and the administration kits/needles used on kitties on this site. Do you use a particular search term? I can tell you that I used to pay $12 a bag for subcutaneous fluids from our vet until I discovered that Costco's pharmacy sells a box of 12 bags for $26.09 (not including tax). That's a little over $2 a bag. You need a membership to buy there but I figure I recouped the $55 fee with just one box of fluids.
Also, because I used to buy fluids there (and have spent a small fortune there dealing with our Babe's CRF) they now give me administration sets and needles free every whenever I ask. If your vet doesn't do this already, it might be worth asking them to give you a break on these.
Anyone else have any recommendations on inexpensive alternatives to buying CRF supplies at the vet?
Mikaela,
So glad to hear the Hub helped you! It's quite easy to change a needle. Before you administer the fluids, have a fresh needle ready to go. After you've stopped administering the fluids and withdraw the needle from your kitty's coat, put the cap back on the syringe, then gently twist the capped syringe off the end of the line. Rest the line in a way that the end won't be touching anything (for me, it's easiest just to hold it). Uncap the fresh needle and push it onto the end of the line. And put your used needles in a capped bottle or some other closed container before you put then in the recycling bin. Hope this helps.
Please do!
Hi JennyF. Thanks for your post. Your suggestion about the bubbles is a good one, and I'll add it to the article. A vet once told me that air bubbles in the fluid won't hurt a cat, but it makes sense to let the fluid flow all the way through the drip chamber and line so at the very least there's no delay in beginning the fluids (I have, in fact, been doing this.) That should be noted here, you're right. And as far as putting the bag under your clothing, seems to me that might take a long time -- unless your a really hot person :) OK, thanks again.
Daniel
Hi Megan,
Sorry for the belated reply. I use 20-size needles and usually don't have a problem, but sometimes they just don't seem to want to go in, especially when our kitty's coat feels dry. For starters, make sure the needle is rotated so that the open side is facing up (so you can see the opening). I've found that it helps to gently lift the needle up and down at a slight angle while pushing it in. If it won't go, push harder. I know, it feels like you're hurting your kitty and goes against your instincts, but sometimes you just have to force it in. I've done this a number a times and the most my cat has ever done is flinch. If none of this works, I'd explain the problem to your local vet or vet techs and ask them for pointers.
OK, good luck and let us know how you make out.
Daniel
Thank you so much everyone for all of the helpful information. My husband and I just started subq fluids and tonight was our 3rd time, after 2 months of taking my 20 year old cat, Pebbles, to the vet for the treatments. They make it look so easy. She is 5lbs with very little area to make the "tent". We are so afraid of hurting her, but we have to do it, and it's better than taking her out of the house for it. The vet has actually been trying to convince us to do it ourselves for a few weeks now, and we finally decided it was best for her. We did it with the vet's supervision the first time, which helped. Her bun is 80 or lower right now. She had the i.v. flush 2 weeks ago, and got down to 59, which was great, but I think it may have gone up a bit since, as she is just not looking / feeling very good, and eating very little. Hopefully the more frequent in home treatments will help her. Thank you again everyone, and I'm so sorry to those who have lost their pets to this disease. Hugs to you! Lisa
Lisa,
Thanks for writing. I felt a pang in the heart at your description of your little Pebbles, still hanging in there at 20 years old and just 5 pounds. The fluids should help her. It's inspiring to hear cat owners like yourself refusing to give up on their precious little ones. It's really good to know this article has been helpful to you. Hope Pebbles will be feel better soon.
Thank you - it's nice to know others who can relate to what we are going through. It sucks but I will not give up on her unless I really know I can't help her anymore. I have had her since she was a tiny baby, and have pretty much convinced myself over the past 5 or so years that she is immortal, because as of a year ago, she had no organ failures, and was/still is a marvel to the vets who have worked with her, and us, of course. She is sleeping, as usual, now, absorbing her lump of goodness =) I'm hoping she perks up in the next few days. We will do it as much as she needs it, and see how it goes. I was afraid tonight that we didn't get the needle back far enough, because it's hard to even find skin between her little shoulder blades, but the fluid went into her leg quarters on both sides, and it was comforting to see a couple of stories on here about that being okay. It did the same thing Friday when we did it at the vet, but I was concerned about the injection site tonight more than anything. Of course, we will try to get it back there further next time, and get better as we go. Thank you for your nice wishes for Pebbles.
you're welcome, Lisa. I can related because I've had Stormy, the tabby pictured above, for 16 years and she has also been brave and taken everything in stride, even while dealing with a new addition to our family, our little boy, who's now 2, whom's she's been incredibly patient with. "lump of goodness" -- luv that.
Hi Daniel'
Thank you very much for your kind words, posted eight days ago,a couple of days after our precious Cherry died on feb 24th. I'm very pleased that what I wrote may have been of use to others and will look on that as a tribute to her. She put up with having fluids down her line three times a day since last may. She also had more medications added since I wrote that piece. It was a big committment but we loved her and it was worth it as it kept her well long after we could have lost her. We miss her terribly
Sorry to hear Cherry has passed, Cherry's Mum. She sounds like a brave little kitty. We've lost a cat, Babe, the calico pictured above, and I know it's a heart-wrenching experience. I just try to remember the fun and good times we had with her, and that's helped. We also have a little shrine set up to her on the window with her box of ashes, her collar, and a photo. It's somehow comforting because it's like part of her is still around.
condolences,
Daniel
Thanks for writing, Nicole. You bring up an important part of giving fluids -- remain calm yourself and reassure your kitty with soothing tones and lots of affection during the process. Showing her the equipment beforehand -- never thought of that. Good idea! Every time I give Stormy fluids, I give her a deep ear massage, and she never fights me anymore.
Glad to hear the article helped. Good luck with Gypsy!
Hi Rheanna,
Thanks for commenting on my article, "How to Give a Cat Fluids." Sorry it's taken so long to get back to you. Don't worry about the bulge; it always goes away, though it may take a few hours. Vets say fluids take from 6-8 hours to be fully absorbed into a cat's body (but the bulge shouldn't last that long). So don't be scared. One time most of the fluid I was giving Babe migrated down her leg, and she resembled a Bactrian camel!
Regards,
Daniel
Hi Mike,
How's Mau doing with the fluids? Love that name!
Daniel
Hi, Sen. Vets say fluids take from 6-8 hours to be fully absorbed into a cat's body. They also say if the cat still has it's fluid "bulge," you should hold off giving it more fluids until the bulge subsides. This is probably only relevant to people who have to give their kitty multiple fluid doses a day.
Daniel
Hi Nancy,
Sorry for the delay in answering. I like the idea of the sink with the towel in it! I imagine it gives your kitty that "boxed in" sensation that they love. I use the couch and a nearby closet door to hang the fluids. Massaging and caressing during the fluids -- always good. Anyone else have some suggestions on where to put your kitty while giving her fluids?
Well, the try at home was a disaster. The fluids wouldn't flow at first, and then she started howling and fighting to be let go, so we had to stop. She still eats, drinks, and plays a lot, so I think we are going to hold off on trying this again for a while. It was seriously a terrible experience! I'll be checking back for more tips later, as I am sure we'll have to do this at some point. Thanksfor your help and support!
hey thepete, you're welcome. glad you enjoyed the article. it's good to know in advance about CRF, because a kitty who's starting to lose kidney function can not show any sign of at all of something being wrong until the CRF is advanced. Hope your 8 kitties are doing well!
Daniel
Thanks for writing, Jamie, and sorry for the late reply. How did it go with the subq fluids?
daniel
SueinSD,
Sorry to repond so late but I wondered how things worked out with your Nikki?
daniel
Sorry to hear that, Lula's mom. When I first started, I would have the fluid bag already set up and ready to go, then sit our kitty down next to me on the couch, talk soothingly to her while giving her an ear massage, and then as casually as possible lift up her coat and slide the needle in as I talked to her. I made sure she was sandwiched in between the arm rest of the couch and my body, so she had nowhere to go. If the cat resists no matter what, you can always try wrapping your kitty up in a towel and then inserting the needle. Or take her to the vet and ask them to show you how they would administer fluids to your kitty. Good luck, and let me know how it goes.
Daniel
Thanks, Daniel,
I'm going to give it another try in a day or two - let my nerves unfrazzle first. I did have it all ready to go when we started, but we tried it on a counter, where she has never been before, and I think our own nervousness also didn't help. I'll try again shortly using your suggetions, and let you know how it goes! Thanks again for all your help!
After I gave my cat fluids I was stuck by the needle trying to take it off the line. The needle got stuck and the cap went flying and I got stuck in the finger. Does anyone know how dangerous this might be. There did not seem to be blood on the needle but I bled. HELP
Marya, I don't know how dangerous it is -- any vets/nurses reading this? -- but I've stuck myself with a needle before and I immediately swabbed my finger with alcohol and applied neosporin and a band-aid, just to be safe. I have experienced that same problem of the cap sliding off the needle when you're taking it off the line. Hold the fluids line in one hand and with the other hand place your thumb and index finger firmly around the bottom of the needle and then twist it off while pulling gently.
@Lula's mom: you're welcome. Keep trying and let us know how it works out.
Daniel
The first time I tried to give SQ fluids to my ornery by beloved kitty was a disaster. Luckily I was warned ahead of time by my excellent vet it would take a few tries to get it down and if it wasn't working, to just stop and try again later or the next day.
So set your expectations low, initially. Don't stress about doing it perfectly, or even finishing it at all the first few times. Eventually you figure out what works for you and your cat and it will all seem very routine. Even then, you will still have some bad days, or your cat will. Remember, your cat is suffering a chronic illness and sometimes doesn't feel great, so if they're not up for it, it's okay! Avoid the compulsion to always finish or do it right. Just try again later.
Good luck to everyone and thanks to danielmybrother for this page!
Amp,
Excellent advice! It can't be stressed enough: Don't give up if it doesn't work out the first time or even the first few times you try giving your kitty fluids. Think long-term -- and don't be too hard on yourself.
Thanks, Amp
Hi. Thank you SO much for this site! It has helped so much already. I have a couple of questions.
I just started giving my kitty Barlee sub-q treatments last Sunday, to varying degrees of success.
As far as warming the fluids, I read through most of the comments, but I am still confused. I have been warming the bag and keeping the fluid line and see-through chamber out of the water. Isn't the water in those areas still cool and that is what initially goes into the kitty? However, I would be afraid to warm them due to the (possibly irrational?) fear of water seeping into the line or chamber. What is the proper procedure to make kitty comfortable?
Secondly, I did well the third day I had to give him the treatment, but the next day, the needle kept on coming out. Then I think I stuck it too far, b/c the needle looked like it was in, but liquid still ran down his fur. How many sticks before you just give up and let the poor kitty be for a day?
Lastly, I know you need a fresh needle daily. If the needle does come out during administration, should you use fresh needle as well?
Thank you again so very much!!
Barlee's Mom,
Thanks for posting! Good to hear this article has helped you. I wouldn't put the line or drip chamber into the warm water. The amount of fluid in them is minimal -- probably only a few brief seconds of flow -- and I wouldn't risk possible contamination with tap water. I've never noticed my cats react to the first few seconds of a fluid session. About the fluid running out of your kitty's coat: I would pull the needle out and reinsert it, without worrying about a fresh needle. Don't think it's necessary (any thoughts, readers?) The maximum number of sticks I've done is three. More than that I'd say isn't worth subjecting the kitty to. Better to try later.
Hope this helps,
Daniel
Wonderful hub ! Great information !
thanks, Lou!
this is a really great resource for those having to give SQ fluids to their kitties. my six-year old cat, jabby is fighting back from a quick onset and severe case of ARF that two different vets said would have killed most cats. i couldn't afford to keep my jabby in hospital for more than one night, so giving him fluids at home has been essential. before getting the setup, i spent his first night out of the hospital giving him pedialyte orally from a syringe every two hours. once we got the setup, the first day was a disaster. my mum came over to "help" me, but her palpable stress led her to hold onto jabby too tightly and he yowled loudly as i tried to stick him, the needle wouldn't go in, and the whole thing got out of hand. he even tried biting me! we went again, and this time i got the needle in and the line turned on, but my mum let him go within a few seconds and the needle pulled out. my confidence shaken, i wasn't sure i was going to be able to handle sticking my cat. anyway, after another failed attempt, i sent my mum home and let my kitty take a nap. later that night, after reading this, i tried again on my own and was successful. jabby barely made a sound as i put the needle in. he squirmed a little, but some chin scratches and pets kept him calm enough to finish. i can't state enough, that the mood in the room is so important. stay calm and your kitty will too. i think it's more important even than the type of needle, whether you warm up the bag, etc. best of luck to everyone with a sick cat-it's the scariest thing to be faced with losing our dear friends. i'm so glad that i have been able to nurse my kitty back from death's door.
Daniel - Barlee lost his fight with CRF/CKD early this AM. I had wanted to bring in a compassionate at-home pet euthanasia vet in the area today, but Barlee health started deteriorating in the wee morning hours, and I knew the best thing for him was to bring him immediately to the emergency vet.
I just wanted to write and thank you so very much again for this hub. It was an amazing help when I definitely needed it; both your guide as well as other people's stories and comments were a blessing.
Thanks again!
Jodie
Hi Daniel, I just went to a holistic vet to get some answers to how far advanced my cat, Dixie's kidney failure is and how to treat it through diet and medicine. I was told to start giving subcutaneous fluids. I thought, "Sure, I can do this, being a past nursing student." Well, it's a lot different when it's a cat that can't tell you how they feel. I tried unsuccessfully three times and gave up. I watched videos on utube showing the process. The needle doesn't seem to want to go all the way through the skin. When I took it out, (or it fell out)the fluid on the fur had a red tint to it, assuming this is blood. Is that normal or did I go too deep under the skin? I don't want to do this anyway and I certainly don't want to hurt my Dixie more than necessary. I did make a tent with the scruff, which she doesn't have much of because she is so skinny and dehydrated. I did give her food for distraction. Please help with me by answering whether it seems like I am going too deep. This is causing anxiety and stress for me and I know that in turns effects her. Help!!!
@Dixie's mom - you may want to take her to the vet the 1st few times so they can help you learn how to give the sub-q fluids. Especially since she is so dehydrated and it sounds like she needs the fluids. I've been doing the fluids for about 5 months now and I've never seen blood, so that worries me.
@danielmybrother - thank you so much for this site. I've been reading the crf, this, and others and appreciate all the information and feedback from other cat parents. Cleo and Nala are litter mates, but Cleo was dx'd with diabetes when she was only three y/o. She was dx'd with CRF and a heart murmur in November and we're just keeping her comfortable and trying to enjoy every day we have left. Nala's BUN was slightly elevated when Cleo was diagnosed, so I will definitely heed your advice and take her back in because we were so focused on Cleo that we didn't finish testing or follow-up with Nala.
You've done a wonderful thing with your site and I know it's a huge responsibility - thank you!
Michelle (and Cleo and Nala)
I know chaning needles is a must but is there any risk in using the same SQ fluid bag on two different cats? Can any disease they carry be transferred from the fluids?
thank you for this site, i wanted to let you know that at least here in california you can use costcos pharmacy without becoming a member. I just let them know that I am going to the pharmacy and they let me in. I can get anything that is also prescripted for humans there, I used to get my Angel Cat's thyriod meds there. Its cheaper than the Vet and I don't have to worry about price matching.
Dear jabby'smum,
Thanks so much for sharing the story of your near-epic attempt to give Jabby his first dose of subq fluids. Good for you for not giving up and trying one more time. I'm really glad you noted how the mood in the room makes all the difference. Cat's are sensitive to people's moods, and tension in the air will put them on edge. Very nice of your mum to help, but I agree: for administering fluids at home, one person, one cat.
Good luck to you and Jabby, and sorry for the late reply.
Daniel
Dear Barlee's Mom,
So sorry to hear of Barlee's passing. It's a difficult experience, I know, and now matter how much you prepare you're never quite fully ready. Sounds like he had a very loving kitty mom. And it makes me happy to at least know this Hub helped you.
Best,
Daniel
Dear Dixie's mom,
Sorry for the late reply. Michelle's advice is a good idea; having the vet techs show you in person how to stick the needle in would be a good start. As far as your questions, no, a red tint on the needle is not normal. You should be keeping the needle level (not tilted up or down) when you insert it in the scruff, not too high up and not too low and close to the cat's fur. Sounds like you might have pricked the underlying flesh. I've done that once or twice and the vet told me it shouldn't be a problem, but you don't want to continue doing it. It's not easy with a skinny kitty, I know. Let us know how things turned out, and if the vet was able to help you.
Daniel
Dear Michelle,
Thanks for your thoughtful post, and for helping out Dixie's mom with some good advice. Poor Cleo! Our Stormy, the brown tabby pictured above, also has CRF and a heart murmur, so there's always that delicate balance between keeping her hydrated and not causing congestive heart problems. Having diabetes on top of that is a tough one. I don't know much about its effects on cats and hope Cleo will manage to have some kind of quality of life despite her ailments. As far as Nala, elevated BUN is a concern. I would make sure to take her back to the vet within 3 months to see if anything's changed. And you're so welcome. Happy to hear this has helped you.
Let us know how your kitties are doing.
Regards,
Daniel
Lisa,
I'm not a vet, so you should ask your veterinarian if there's any risk involved in such a case, and please let us know what you hear -- I think other readers would be interested to know.
Best,
Daniel
Dear Cassie,
Thanks for sharing that information (California readers take note!) Has anyone from other states managed to use Costco's pharmacy without purchasing a Costco membership? Do tell!
Daniel
Barbra Snyder 4 years ago
Great article, very helpful and easy to follow. I have a cat with the same problem & I'm going broke from the vet bills.After reading these step by step instructions I believe I can handle this myself.
Thanks Again,
Barbra Snyder