Quote Originally Posted by nepeta View Post
Please check with your vet, but my understanding is that the kidneys can compensate up to about 70 or 75% loss. It's at that point that you first see the rise in creatinine -- and so that is considered early renal failure.
That is what my vet told me; that cats have to loose about 70% of kidney function before they show any symptoms. Just like other problems, they are good at compensating and hiding things!

I've had two seniors with kidney failure. My vet has told me that if a cat lives long enough eventually their kidneys or thyroid will fail(or in Beau's case, both!). The condition was manageable for a good time span with both of them. I gave up on the prescription foods for them. They didn't like them and it was more important that they just eat! Chicken baby food was a favorite for both of them, even when they didn't feel well.

My Onyx is currently in kidney failure. He's only 6(almost seven now that I think about it). He's way too young for such problems, but he's doing pretty well right now. He's become a puker--kidney failure can cause stomach upset. Pecid is our friend now! A quarter tablet makes a huge difference for Onyx.

There's lots of hope for your boy to be with you, comfortable and happy, for some time yet! Good luck.