Originally posted by Barbara
You know that the CRF (as in Chronic Renal Failure) is quite common in cats. If you notice it - when they loose wight and dehydrate- a lot of kidney function is usually gone (more than 60% they say)- but cats are so good in hiding the symptoms that it can really take time until you notice.

A way to find out earlier is a blood test that checks the urea and creatinine level. This is how we found out that my Aby boy Filou has it too- but in a much earlier stage than Yuri.

When he comes home you should be prepared that he will need subcutanean fluids more often- maybe even several times a week. Many Pet Talkers can give their furkids the subQ injections at home but with my wiggly butt Filou I am not sure whether I can get him to keep still. This may be a problem with a youngish Bengal too.

Next thing is a diet for him. It is low proteine and low phosphor and kitties don't love it THAT much but it helps keep the urea and crea level down.

Here is a link with lots of information:

http://www.felinecrf.com/what0.htm

All best wishes to Yuri- CRF cannot be healed but it can be under control for a longer time.
Thanks for the link and your insight. A friend's 10 year old cat has it and we're sort of prepared for what is in store.
Thanks
Sandy Frost