A Heartfelt Pause — and a New Purpose for This Cat Wellness Blog
After taking a few months away from Aries’ blog, I’m ready to return—with a story that’s deeply personal, and a renewed commitment to feline wellness education, senior cat care, and chronic illness support. In December, we learned that Aries’ mom, Diana, was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease in cats, also known as feline CKD —a condition that impacts a significant number of aging felines. Her prognosis wasn’t promising. The veterinarian gently told us that, at such a late stage, we might only have a few weeks left. But there was a small window of hope—intensive IV fluid therapy for cats with kidney failure.
I said yes. Not out of desperation, but out of love—and a promise to let her go if she showed signs that it was time.
Signs of Kidney Disease in Cats
We know the signs in hindsight: increased thirst, more frequent urination, decreased appetite, and weight loss. These are some of the most common early signs of kidney disease in cats —but they often go unnoticed until the condition becomes more serious. In Diana’s case, the only thing we really. noticed was a little weight loss. She hid her disease so well.
How We’re Managing Chronic Kidney Disease in Cats: Diana’s Routine
To our surprise, Diana responded beautifully to treatment. With periodic subcutaneous IV fluids, Naraquin, and Nephrodyl (natural supplements for feline kidney support), Diana has continued to live with joy, curiosity, and remarkable strength. Her story is a powerful reminder that cats with CKD can still have a good quality of life.
Here’s what’s helped Diana the most:
- Subcutaneous fluids 2–3 times per week (initially, now it’s as needed)
- Naraquin – a renal supplement that supports kidney function
- Nephrodyl – a blend of natural ingredients that promotes urinary tract and kidney health
- A hydration-focused diet with low phosphorus levels
- Regular monitoring with our vet, including bloodwork and hydration checks
- Peaceful rest and affection in a stress-free environment
Why I Took Time Off from the Blog
Caring for a senior cat with chronic kidney disease isn’t just about the physical care. It’s emotional. It’s daily uncertainty. It’s gratitude. And it’s grief, waiting quietly on the edges.
I stepped away from Aries’ blog because I needed time—to care for Diana, to make peace with the unknown, and to reimagine the purpose of this platform. Also, I focused more efforts on Aries’ social media to keep myself busy while I processed this news. I wanted it to not just be about adventures and enrichment, but about real-life feline health challenges too.
What’s Next on the Blog: Senior Cat Wellness, Chronic Illness, and Hope
While I’ll still be sharing Aries’ adventures, fun pet enrichment tips, and posts about kindness, I’ll also be expanding this cat care blog to include:
- Feline CKD care routines and supplements that help
- Wellness tips for senior cats
- Stories from our home with multiple cats
- How to emotionally support a cat with chronic illness
- What it means to say goodbye—or hold on—with compassion
I’ll also be telling more of Diana’s life story in an upcoming post. She has given so much love over the years—to her kittens, to our home, and now to me as I walk beside her in this unexpected chapter.
Cats Are Resilient: A Final Word on Diana’s Strength
We often hear that cats are independent, but what I’ve seen is resilience in its purest form. Diana has taught me more about acceptance and presence than I ever imagined. She still climbs onto her favorite spot, still gives the gentlest purrs, and still holds on—for now. Every day with a cat living with chronic kidney disease in cats is a gift.
If you’re caring for a cat with kidney disease, know that you’re not alone. There are options, support, and ways to improve your cat’s comfort and wellbeing—even in late stages. Check out our Resources Page for more information on CKD. I hope this blog becomes a place where we can explore that together.
With love,
Tracy & Aries (and always, Diana)
