What are the symptoms of end stage chronic kidney failure in my cat?

We adopted our cat 5 years ago and were told that she was 11, but we think she may have been older. She suffers from arthritis which we treat with pills.

She now has chronic kidney failure and we have been giving her a special diet and pills but she has been ill all over xmas and l don't want to be selfish and make her live in pain too long.

I want to know which symptoms to look out for that would indicate I should take her to the vet for the last time. What symptoms should I look for that signal it's time for the end?

Editor's note: I'm sorry to hear that your cat is ill, but I'm glad to hear that she is being well cared for through this disease.

I would be doing regular checks for healthy gums, signs of pain and discomfort, and monitoring litter box habits closely.

Obviously, if she stops eating or drinking, she needs to see the veterinarian. Your vet should be able to give you a complete list of signs and symptoms to look for.

I haven't personally dealt with a cat with CRF, so I think it's best to point you to this list of signs of end stage CRF. Also, I would watch for signs of dehydration described here. I believe that should give you a good indication of what to look for.

I hope that helps.
-Kurt