Hi, I’m Nicole! Read my introduction to learn more about me and my distinguished Burmese, Mr. Baby Cat.
When Baby Cat (aka Baby, Mr. Baby, Bubs, Lil Bub, Stinky Boy, Tiny Boy, Bubba or Bubby) was first diagnosed with kidney disease we weren’t sure what the path ahead looked like for him.
Our little man was losing weight because he didn’t like his kidney diet dry food, and the only thing he would eat was raw food, but the raw food was speeding up his kidney disease. He was dehydrated, too, so we had to get him off dry food and switch him to the very expensive kidney diet wet food – but do you think he liked that? No. But the dogs did, because they were getting some very expensive secret meal toppers.
Our vet said that having him lose weight was just as bad for his health as the raw food was for his kidneys, so if we had to pick one, because of his age, we may as well have him happy and eating and maintaining weight. So raw food it was (and still is – but we have recently found some other canned patés that he enjoys so it’s not fully raw).
Unfortunately, though, the wet diet and the water he drinks is not enough to keep him as hydrated as he needs to be, so we had to learn how to administer subcutaneous fluids at home. This was our vet’s decision – you should never administer subcutaneous fluids to your cat or pet without your veterinarian’s direction.
What Are Subcutaneous Fluids?
The supplies needed for at-home sub-q administration
Subcutaneous (Sub-Q) fluids are a type of medical treatment where fluids are injected under the skin instead of into a vein. This method is commonly used in cats that have kidney disease to help them stay hydrated and maintain electrolyte balance. With this method, the fluids are slowly absorbed into the bloodstream, providing a steady supply of hydration and nutrients to the cat, because the kidneys are no longer able to regulate effectively on their own.
It is a relatively simple procedure to learn with proper training and direction from your cat’s veterinarian and can help support your cat’s well-being from the comfort of home – but, let’s be honest, it’s not also a bit of a hassle and can cause a bit of stress for both the cat and parent, so I wanted to share some of our journey with those of you that might be doing this for your cat already, and those who may be on their way.
The Good: Why Sub-Q Fluids Are So Important
It Keeps Your Cat Hydrated
It’s no surprise that the hydration helps on the inside, but it’s actually shocking how different Baby Cat acts only a few hours after administration and for at least a few days after it as well. He’s like his younger self again, he is less hungry, and just looks better all around.
Good Bubby
Improves Quality of Life
As mentioned before, Baby Cat becomes a better version of himself after he has his fluids. While he may be experiencing lethargy, aches and pains, and general ageing symptoms, the fluids help give him a boost and keep him comfortable day to day.
Slows Down the Disease
Kidney disease is not curable, but providing subcutaneous fluids can help slow the disease because it helps the body to function properly, taking some of the pressure off the kidneys so you can have more time with your beloved cat. I know that for us, we won’t push it if Baby’s quality of life declines dramatically, but for now its apparent that the fluids keep him feeling fresh and happy.
The Bad: Why Administering Sub-Q Fluids Can Be Stressful
Emotional Stress
While it’s a relatively simple procedure, it isn’t necessarily a walk in the park – especially for pet parents that may not have any other medical experience. And, if your cat doesn’t like needles, that can add a whole other level of stress. Thankfully, in our situation, Baby Cat is completely fine with needles (which was why our vet suggested we try the procedure at home in the first place).
It’s not always easy, he sometimes gets over it and tries to climb up me to get away, poor boy.
Physical Discomfort
Even though Baby Cat is fine with needles, sitting still for long periods of time by request is not something he’s used to or enjoys – can’t get him to move most times during the day, but when we want him to stay put, it’s a different story. The feeling of fluids can also be a bit strange and uncomfortable, which makes cats (including Baby) squirm and try to get away.
Time Consuming
It’s not a quick process. From set up to administration to take down, the whole process can take around 30 minutes, and it needs to be during the right time for your cat to be calm and you to be calm, so it isn’t always easy to do it regularly. We aim to do it every 3-4 days but it’s often every 7-10 because it’s hard to find a quiet moment without the dogs and toddler where Baby Cat is awake and ready to eat (we feed him while giving him the fluids to help keep him still).
We always feed him while we put in the needle, and it usually gives us 3-5 minutes of drip time before he even notices.
It Takes Practice
It can feel like a lot to learn when you begin, with the preparation, inserting the needle, working the bag, and keeping your kitty calm and still. I can assure you all that practice does make perfect, and something that used to be a full family event is now something I can do on my own. The more you practice the easier it will be for you and your cat.
The Bubby: How to Personalize the Process to Make It Easier on Your Cat
Get Some Training
You should never administer subcutaneous fluids to your cat without veterinary approval and training. Your vet will have experience doing this for your cat, so they are the best resource for training, they will already know how your cat reacts and will be able to share insights into how to keep them calm during the process. Our Bubby Cat, for example, truly doesn’t care about the needle going in, but keeping him still afterwards is the hard part, so they recommended feeding him his favorite food and treats while the fluids are going in to buy us time.
Create a Calm Space
If your cat feels most calm in your room, don’t try to administer fluids outside – find a calming space that they are familiar with and make it even more inviting. You may not be surprised when I say that we give the Bubs his fluids by the fire. He’s more likely to stay put there than anywhere else in the house.
Warm the Fluids
We were instructed to and always put the bag of fluids in warm water for about 10 minutes before we administer the fluids. It doesn’t drastically change the temperature, but it takes the edge off and becomes less of a shock to Baby’s system when they do go in, so he is likely to sit still for a bit longer.
Positive Reinforcement
The food and treats are not just for Baby Cat, they are for most cats. He also gets a plethora of chin and neck scratches, and is told he is the ‘goodest boy’ about a thousand times. Anything to keep him feeling like him staying put is the best thing he’s ever done or going to do.
Persuading Mr. Baby to sit still a little longer for the neck scratches.
Ask for Help
Whether it’s another person in your home or, if it is too much and you need to ask your vet for assistance, the main point here is that if it’s causing too much stress for you and your cat – ask for help. Sometimes having two people involved can make all the difference. While I can do it alone, it still is easier when my husband is nearby to offer more cuddles and treats while my hands are tied ensuring Baby doesn’t wiggle free and dislodge the needle. Help might mean more training, or just confirmation that you’re doing it right. Regardless, don’t be afraid to ask because the main goal is to help your cat stay healthy, comfortable, and hydrated.
Helping Your Cat With Subcutaneous Fluids
While giving Baby Cat subcutaneous fluids is crucial for managing his kidney disease and helping him feel better, it’s not always easy. But, I know it is worth the stress, and so does he. Even when we get the wriggles and sometimes get less fluids in him than we planned, he is still perky and seemingly grateful for it. I never expected to be a pro at giving needles and fluids to a cat but seeing how much it helps him makes the whole journey rewarding.
If you’re also a Sub-Q fluid parent or about to enter that world, I hope some of our journey has helped ease your stresses and allowed you to feel more comfortable and confident on your journey. Thanks for reading!
