This is a personal record of my life with my cat, Mickey, who lives with a chronic illness.
The English version is translated with the help of AI tools, with care and love.
This post was originally published on May 29, 2025.
Today Is the Big Day
Today was the first day of giving subcutaneous fluids (fluids under the skin) at home — “X-Day!”
Subcutaneous fluids help cats with kidney disease stay hydrated by efficiently replenishing lost water — this can be truly a way of sustaining life. The plan was to take on this challenge at home.
My partner and I were both a little breathless with determination:
“We must do this successfully for Mickey!”
We reviewed the vet’s instructions carefully and even practiced with videos before taking on the real thing.
Setting Up Our Home IV Station
First, we prepared a comfortable “fluid area” in the house. The height difference between the fluid bag and Mickey is very important for smooth flow — so we chose the cat tower Mickey loves.
We used an S-hook to hang the fluid bag high above, and just below it, we placed Mickey’s carrier so he couldn’t move around during the session.
For a cozy space, we used the sleepypod — the soft round carrier Mickey used when he was a kitten.
The First Attempt — Unexpected Alert Mode
It took two people to help — one of us handled the needle and the fluid controller, while the other gently supported Mickey.
But even before we started, Mickey became very alert. His ears went up, and he stared at us with a wary look — clearly ready to defend himself.
This initial body language told us we were in for a challenge.
First Try — Needle Came Out
Mickey was a bit restless, but he actually let us put the needle in smoothly at first!
…But before we could settle, he started to move, and the needle slipped out.
At that point, Mickey’s alert level was at its maximum, and we decided it wasn’t safe to continue that day. We postponed the rest to the next day.
Second Try — Praise and Patience Win
On the following day, we changed our strategy:
Instead of holding Mickey tightly, we let him stay a bit more comfortable in the carrier.
I held the needle steady in place so it wouldn’t slip out, and my partner gently stroked Mickey’s cheeks and head while we praised him with soft words like:
“Good boy!” “You’re doing great!” “Let’s go a little more!”
Slowly but surely, Mickey relaxed — and finally, the fluids were given successfully!
A Big Step for All of Us
When it was over, both of us felt completely exhausted.
This first at-home fluid session was a success — and a big step for Mickey.
Mickey, we’re so proud of you! Thank you for doing your best. This was truly a meaningful moment in our journey together.
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