We have dealt with kidney cats over the years, NINE of them!!!At one point in time, I was hydrating 5 cats! The sub q fluids are the best thing you can do for Blackie. If you learn how to give the fluids, you can order fluids on line and they are much cheaper than at the vet. I just ordered from Brico. They have special rates for the west coast. Barbara gave you one of the sites that I REALLY like the crf.org, Tanya's site. Helen, the woman who runs it, is WONDERFUL!!!! I found that eating canned kidney diet was the way to go. Our Tina Peepers eats the Royal Canin kidney diet and some of their LP dry.However, there came a time when one of our cats refused to eat the special, I would let them eat what they wanted. Feeding a special diet does no good, if the cat refuses to eat it!!! Molly lived several years while eating Friskies...BUT, if they like the special diet, HOORAY!!! It sounds like you are on top of things!!!! Will keep Blackie and you in my prayers, and a candle, too!!!
Good luck....Sandra