Gary, I've given fluids to various cats of mine over the years. Presently Sydney and Bob are getting them.

It isn't that hard to do, but it does take a little practice at first. Basically, you pick up a little "tent" of skin around the scruff of the neck and insert the needle from the fluid bag parallel to the cat's body. Your vet's staff will show you what to do and have you try it and get it right.

I did a GoodSearch search on "administering subcutaneous fluids to cat" to see if I could find a clear, hopefully illustrated description of the process. I got LOADS of links!

Here's one with step-by-step instructions and photographs: http://www.felinecrf.com/managh.htm

And here's a YouTube demonstration by a vet: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-4Ta537YEOU

Here's another YouTube demo, from Cornell's vet school: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1LSppGcrQ3Y

There are plenty of other links for instructions, too.

Don't be nervous or shy. I am the original Nervous Nellie when I have to attempt anything mildly complex and possibly painful for the recipient..and I learned to do it!.. so you can too, Gary.

Is it expensive? Well, there is some cost involved, but it's worth doing because it could extend Michael's life and comfort level .. The fluid bags and needles are MUCH less expensive if you buy them in bulk. I get a box of 100 needles or a case of 12 bags of fluids at a time from the vet, which is much cheaper than just buying a few.

When I was first giving fluids, about 25 years ago, I'd get a bag or two at a time for something like $12 each from the vet.. until I found out that I could get a whole CASE of 12 bags through him for about $35!

And according to some of the web sites, these supplies are available for even less money in bulk from Costco and other large discount warehouse stores.

I tried to find these at Costco Canada online, but I couldn't. So, here are the nearest Costcos to you:

1 Ancaster (5.93 km)
100 Legend Court
Ancaster ON L9K 1J3
(905) 304-0344

2 Burlington (10.64 km)
1225 Brant Street
Burlington ON L7P 1X7
(905) 336-6714

I hope this helps! You and Michael will spend some real quality time together doing this.

Pat