Devastated and Unsure

I just found out today my 13 y/o cat, Reikah, that I adopted only 1 1/2 yrs ago has Kidney Cancer. About 2 months ago my vet and I started treating what we thought was a bad Kidney infection but the symptoms just never went completely away so we did 3 ultrasounds and found lesions in her Kidneys. I took her to UCDavis Vet Medical Center here in San Diego and they did a needle aspiration on the Kidney lesion and it came out positive for cancer cells. She is staying the night there tonight. Needless to say her Kidney values came back at an outrageous 8.7 but she seems to be handling it pretty well. She has a great appetite, eating, drinking and going to the bathroom fine. She actually has gained 1/2 pound in the last week. But she does seem to be feeling poopy though.
To top it off she does have a slight heart condition due to Radiation thyroid treatment 1 1/2 yrs ago and was tested positive for Pancreatitus (pancreatitis) 2 weeks ago.
She is definitely a fighter, she has had a pretty rough time health wise before I adopted her. She's deaf, and had anorexia when I got her. She went from 4.5 lbs to 10 lbs in 8 months after I got her and has actually won a Kitty Prom Queen contest. She is really something.
Now I'm faced with decisions I know nothing about and I'm very scared because I don't want to put her in any more pain but I know she's a fighter. They are putting her on steroids tonight but I'm concered about her heart and her poor Kidneys. But they said they would sacrifice with the Kidneys for now because the steroids will help with the lesions which is the cause of her Kidney failure. And I'm told Chemo is also hard on the Kidneys and heart.
I don't know what to do. I don't want to lose my little angel just yet. I've only had her such a short time.
Does anyone have any suggestions? Experience with Kidney cancer? I've read about some supplements called 'Life Gold' by PetMeds, any experience with this?
Please help me with some guidance. Anyone.
Just know the Doctors were surprised at how well and in good spirits she's in considering all this. She still purrs and enjoys her tummy rubs. She's my little girl. Please help.  

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[opus88]

I'm so sorry to read abt Reikah and all the health issues going on...the poor little tyke. She sure is a beautiful kitty and I can tell very much loved. I wish I or someone on this site could be of more help, however our experience with kidney cancer and her other issues are very limited. I can send you to Tanya's site on kidney disease, not sure if she covers info on cancer...but she does on pancreatitis and may have some valuable info relating to cancer as well...I hope this is some help to you. Bless you both. I hope you are able to enjoy some quality time together, its so very hard to say goodbye. again I am so very sorry.

http://www.felinecrf.org/index.htm

[zodiacqueen]

Hi, I am so very sorry to hear of the kidney cancer dx.  She really is gorgeous!!  She is lucky to have found such a great caring owner.  Bless you for taking in a rescue kitty....wish more people would rescue, rather than buy from a pet store.

Like you, if I were in your shoes, I would also be worried about chemo effects on the heart and kidneys.  That is a legit concern and I wouldn't want to put those organs under any more stress.  I would look for alternative treatments, maybe a holistic vet.  Although, I've never used one, I've heard great things about them.  I also think that the steroids are a good decision.

From what you've described, it sounds like her appetite is good and her attitude is good.  She seems to be happy and finding enjoyment out of life.  She's not ready to give up, yet.  When making the final decision, I've always looked at these issues.  And, your baby is most definitely not ready.

I know what a rough, emotional time this is.  Can't even tell you how many times, myself, as well as others on here, have had to deal with this situation.  We're here when you need anything.  If you have any questions about anything, or just need some support, know that we've got your back.

Peace and Hugs
Zodiacqueen

[Piparskeggr]

Reikah is a very pretty girl and my heart goes out to you, also my thanks for giving this older kitty a shot at a new, loving life.

I do not know if it will help...

our Calamity Jane Grey of beloved memory (1982 - 2004) had failing kidneys her last couple of years.

To help flush her system and aid her kidneys, our vet showed us how to give her subcutaneous fluids (Ringer's Lactate solution).  We'd give her 50 - 100 ml every other day, basically how much she'd sit still for...she'd definitely perk up and her appetite stayed pretty good.

I think she'd still be with us if a pair of strokes had not done her in.

[opus88]

hi....just wondering how little Reikah is doing with her Chemo treatment yesterday...keep us updated, we here are all praying for her....♥