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 19, 2025.
What Subcutaneous Fluids Mean to Us
In late April, when Mickey’s condition reached a critical point, the first thing we were introduced to at the animal hospital was subcutaneous fluids (a kind of drip).
At that time, we were told that Mickey’s kidney disease was severe, and I remember not being able to take in the veterinarian’s words — just tears falling uncontrollably.
What Are Subcutaneous Fluids?
When a cat’s kidneys are failing, its body can easily become dehydrated as the internal water balance breaks down. Subcutaneous fluids are administered using an injection to efficiently replenish hydration and prevent dehydration.
Going to the Hospital for Treatment
Since then, we’ve been visiting the hospital about 2–3 times a week to receive subcutaneous fluid treatments.
Often, the day after the drip, Mickey’s appetite returns, and I feel a little relieved seeing him looking livelier. But after a few days without treatment, his appetite often returns to being poor again — so we continue to visit while carefully watching for the right timing.
Because we don’t have a car at home, each trip takes about 20 minutes by bus and on foot. It’s not easy for Mickey, but I truly feel that the reason we got through the worst of that crisis was because of those subcutaneous fluid treatments.
Thinking Ahead
Right now, we continue to rely on fluid treatments at the hospital. But if the burden of frequent clinic visits becomes too great in the future, we may have to consider subcutaneous fluids at home as well.
Just the idea of adding fluid injections on top of the daily struggle to give medicine makes my heart heavy…
And yet, at the same time, it reminds me how precious the days when we simply cared for him were.
Continuing Together
Because Mickey keeps fighting each day, we can’t afford to give up either.
When I whisper, “Let’s keep doing our best together,” Mickey gives me that half-annoyed, half-indifferent look, like saying, “Are we doing that again?” and trots off to another room.
Even so, I hope we can continue what we can do — step by step, together.
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