Older cat with kidney failure/hyperthyroidism

Question
My 16 yr old male cat was recently diagnosed with hyperthyroidism and kidney disease by our vet after blood tests. He stated that it is like a 'catch 22' because he can't treat the thyroid problem without having a negative impact on the kidneys. He suggested feeding the cat with a prescription diet (Science Diet K-D). The cat still has a very good appetite, plays with his toys, gets around very well, but I have noticed increased drinking. I have a 9 year old female cat also. I can't tell if the male is urinating more frequently for sure since they both use the same litter boxes. First question is how to go about feeding the older cat the special diet and making sure that he doesn't continue to eat from the other cat's bowl. Second question is "Can you add any other information or suggestions to the current ones offered by my vet that you think may be helpful to us?" The vet did state that the cat could still have several months to a year or two of quality life.

Answer
Hi Chris:  Yes, 16 yrs is a long time but I know of a few cats that are 21 and 22 yrs old.  
I have some suggestions for the two cats....

You will need to offer scheduled feedings 2-3 per day... No more free feeding ... ( just leaving food out ) - Don't do this anymore.

The food your vet suggested is the only one you can use unless you want to make homemade foods.
So, give the K-D to your 16 year old boy.   Feed him 2-3 times per day in smaller amounts.

Now, your other cat will need to eat in another room and close the door during feeding.  You don't want the young one to eat this food because it is very expensive.. Just for the old guy.

Also, for your old boy I recommend (1) 50IU of Vitamin E per day - prick it with a pin and quirt the gel into his food.  The K/D has a wet canned food you can use on top of the K/D dry.

Now, for the two Cat kids - Please get some NuVET Feline Formula  - this is a Supplement Powder that you mix into the food... Taste is great!  All Natural and Safe IMMUNE system Booster.
Keep you kids around for a long time....

This  should help to build up the old boy's weakened immune system.
Also, it may help to heal his weak kidneys.

I am glad your vet was honest about the two diseases and the adverse effects of the Drugs he has to offer you.  Take the Safe and natural route and see if we can help.

Give Joan a call - NuVET Plus is NOT sold in any stores/ ONLY by kennels, breeders and vets:
1-800-474-7044 ext 265  ( Tell her Marie said you should put both cats on the NuVET Feline ---- Use order code 81098)
Ask her about the 15% OFF on autoship..
This is guaranteed to help or they will refund you.
Cost is about .50 cents per day per cat..


Please follow up with me in the next month.  Let me know how the two cats are doing on the NuVET and the Vit E.

BEST of Luck!

Marie Peppers
All Experts
Pet Chef
Ask a VET
Alternative Meds for Pet
Doggie Breed Expert
Doggie Chalet Hotel
http://www.apluspetcare.com/untitled4.html