


As pet parents, we want nothing more than to keep our beloved companions comfortable and healthy, especially when they’re facing a chronic illness like kidney disease. One of the most commonly recommended at-home treatments by veterinarians is subcutaneous fluids for pets with kidney disease. While the idea of giving fluids at home may sound intimidating at first, it’s a gentle and effective way to support your pet’s hydration and overall well-being.
We’ll walk you through what subcutaneous fluids are
In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll walk you through what subcutaneous fluids are, why they’re helpful, and how to get started with confidence. Plus, we’ll explore how a holistic approach, including kidney-supporting herbs from NHV, can make a world of difference.
What Are Subcutaneous Fluids?
Subcutaneous fluids, often called sub-Q fluids, are sterile fluids administered under the skin (not into a vein) to help keep pets hydrated.

These fluids are typically saline or lactated Ringer’s solution and are absorbed slowly into the bloodstream. For pets, especially cats and dogs with chronic kidney disease (CKD), subcutaneous fluids help flush toxins from the body, support healthy kidney function, and improve overall well-being. By maintaining hydration, pets are better able to eat, stay comfortable, and enjoy a better quality of life.
Why It’s Used for Kidney Disease
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is common in senior cats and dogs. The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste from the blood and balancing fluids and electrolytes. When they start to decline, waste can build up in the body, and dehydration becomes a real risk.
This is where subcutaneous fluids for pets with kidney disease come in. By providing extra hydration, these fluids help:
- Dilute waste products in the bloodstream
- Support normal kidney filtration
- Maintain electrolyte balance
- Reduce nausea and improve appetite
Sub-Q fluids don’t cure kidney disease, but they do significantly improve the comfort, energy levels, and quality of life of many pets.
Step-by-Step Beginner Guide
If your veterinarian has recommended administering subcutaneous fluids at home, here’s a general guide to help you get started. Don’t worry, you’re not alone; many pet parents find this process easy to learn.
1. Gather Your Supplies

- A bag of prescribed fluid (use only what your vet recommends)
- A sterile administration set (IV line and needle)
- A clean towel or blanket
- Treats for comfort and reward
2. Choose a Calm Setting and Position Your Pet
Pick a quiet, comfortable space where your pet feels relaxed, such as a favorite bed, couch, or your lap.
Many pet parents find success placing their pets on a non-slip surface or gently burrito-wrapping them in a towel. Cats can often be placed in a loaf position, and small dogs can sit or lie beside you.
3. Prepare the Fluids
Hang the fluid bag higher than your pet (a hook or towel rack works), attach the line and needle, and remove air from the tubing. Warm the fluids to body temperature by placing the bag in a bowl of warm water for 5–10 minutes.
4. Insert the Needle
Gently pinch a loose skin fold (usually between the shoulder blades or along the back) and insert the needle at a shallow angle. Start the flow using the roller clamp, and monitor your pet for signs of stress.
5. Finish and Reward

Once the fluid amount is delivered (your vet will tell you how much), close the clamp and gently remove the needle. Offer lots of praise, cuddles, or a special treat.
Safety Tip: If your pet shows signs of pain, swelling, bleeding, or distress, or if you’re unsure about anything, pause and contact your vet.
What Pet Parents Should Know
Here are some beginner-friendly tips to help you and your pet succeed:
- Frequency Matters: Your vet will recommend how often fluids should be given, which may range from daily to a few times a week.
- Keep it Positive: Use a gentle voice, offer treats, and try to make the experience as stress-free as possible.
- Rotate Sites: Switch injection sites between shoulders or along the back to avoid irritation.
- Stay Calm and Confident: Your pet will pick up on your mood take slow, deep breaths and stay patient.
- Watch for Changes: If your pet becomes lethargic, develops swelling or redness at the site, or stops eating, call your veterinarian.
Holistic Kidney Support from NHV
At NHV Natural Pet Products, we believe in a whole-body, integrative approach to managing chronic kidney disease. Alongside subcutaneous fluids, the right diet and natural supplements can enhance comfort and support kidney health from the inside out.
Some of our most recommended kidney support formulas include:
- NHV Tripsy: This herbal remedy is specifically formulated to support urinary and kidney health in pets. Tripsy contains a blend of natural ingredients, including stone root, parsley, and marshmallow, which can assist in promoting a healthy urinary system.
- NHV Milk Thistle: It has strong antioxidant and detoxifying properties that may help promote cellular regeneration, repair the liver, and offer extra support to the kidneys
- NHV PetOmega 3: The Omega 3 fish oils in PetOmega 3 have excellent anti-inflammatory properties, specifically for the kidneys. Omega-3 fatty acids also help reduce proteinuria (protein lost from the kidneys expelled through the urine).
- NHV Turmeric: Turmeric has an outstanding list of helpful benefits as an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antifungal, antibacterial, antiseptic, and astringent.
Pairing these with your vet’s treatment plan, including subcutaneous fluids, may make a big difference in your pet’s comfort and longevity.
Final Thoughts on Subcutaneous Fluids for Pets
Learning to give subcutaneous fluids at home can feel like a big step, but it is one of the most powerful ways you can support your pet through kidney disease. With time, patience, and the right tools, it becomes an empowering part of your caregiving routine.
At NHV Natural Pet Products, we believe in compassionate, integrative care for every pet. If you have questions about kidney support or need help selecting supplements, our team is always here to help. You’re not alone, we’re with you every step of the way.

NHV Milk Thistle for Pets
Milk Thistle- Helps support pets liver and kidneys

Milk Thistle- Helps support pets liver and kidneys
- item number
- ph1250fb
- weight
- 0.7
-
Description
- item number
- ph1250fb
- weight
- 0.7
-
Ingredients
-
Dosage
overall vitality

Petomega 3 for cats
Petomega 3 for cats
For Overall Health and Well-Being
buy 2 and save $3
An Omega 3 supplement for cats to support their joints, heart, eyes, immune system, and overall organ function.
- Joint support and comfort
- Supports skin and coat condition
- Renal and kidney support
- Supports the immune system


An Omega 3 supplement for cats to support their joints, heart, eyes, immune system, and overall organ function.
- Joint support and comfort
- Supports skin and coat condition
- Renal and kidney support
- Supports the immune system

Our cat omega 3 supplement is naturally made from the oils of sardines, anchovies, and North Atlantic cod. It’s an excellent source of EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid 600mg) and DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid 460mg) essential omega 3 fatty acids. It’s molecularly distilled and cold-pressed to improve the bioavailability
Support your cat with human-grade quality omega 3 fish oil supplements. Many processed pet foods are deficient in this important nutrient. And according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, "It is very important to maintain a balance between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in the diet. A proper balance helps maintain and even improve health."
It’s important for cats to get essential fatty acids through their diet. This omega 3 supplement for cats will help keep them healthy, and even finicky cats actually like to take it.
Benefits of Cat omega 3 supplements:
- Supports healthy cell growth
- Joint support and comfort
- Support skin and coat condition
- Support the immune system
- Eye health support
- Renal and kidney support
- Promotes healthy heart function
- Recommended by vets for cancer support
- item number
- PH8500c
- weight
- 1.4
- volume
- 8 fl. oz. (237ml)
- form
- liquid
- life stages
- adult, senior, kitten
- made in
- USA
Suggested Dosage: To be taken once per day. Add to food based on weight chart.
Therapeutic Dosage: Double the quantity for maximum period of 4 weeks or follow veterinarian advise.
Pet’s Weight Dosage
0-15 lb = ¼ tsp
15-30 lb = ½ tsp
30-60 lb = 1 tsp
60-90 lb = 1 ½ tsp
How to Administer: Shake well before use. The easiest method is to add the dosage to your pets food. Some pets can be finicky, if this occurs consider hiding the appropriate amount in food most pet’s love such as fish, chicken, yogurt, or a favorite treat. If your pet only eats dry food then soak kibbles at feeding time.
For Best Results
Dietary supplements are beneficial to the health and well-being of your pet and are safe for long-term use. Every pet responds to natural supplements differently, therefore it is important to be consistent and administer the product daily. Supplements generally take two to four weeks to take effect, however this will vary from one animal to the next.
Product Storage
All NHV Natural Pet Products contain no artificial additives, preservatives or coloring. Shelf life after opening is 6 months and must be refrigerated after opening.
Cautions and Contraindications
Avoid During Pregnancy.
-
Description
Our cat omega 3 supplement is naturally made from the oils of sardines, anchovies, and North Atlantic cod. It’s an excellent source of EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid 600mg) and DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid 460mg) essential omega 3 fatty acids. It’s molecularly distilled and cold-pressed to improve the bioavailability
Support your cat with human-grade quality omega 3 fish oil supplements. Many processed pet foods are deficient in this important nutrient. And according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, "It is very important to maintain a balance between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in the diet. A proper balance helps maintain and even improve health."
It’s important for cats to get essential fatty acids through their diet. This omega 3 supplement for cats will help keep them healthy, and even finicky cats actually like to take it.
Benefits of Cat omega 3 supplements:
- Supports healthy cell growth
- Joint support and comfort
- Support skin and coat condition
- Support the immune system
- Eye health support
- Renal and kidney support
- Promotes healthy heart function
- Recommended by vets for cancer support
- item number
- PH8500c
- weight
- 1.4
- volume
- 8 fl. oz. (237ml)
- form
- liquid
- life stages
- adult, senior, kitten
- made in
- USA
-
Ingredients
-
Dosage
Suggested Dosage: To be taken once per day. Add to food based on weight chart.
Therapeutic Dosage: Double the quantity for maximum period of 4 weeks or follow veterinarian advise.
Pet’s Weight Dosage
0-15 lb = ¼ tsp
15-30 lb = ½ tsp
30-60 lb = 1 tsp
60-90 lb = 1 ½ tsp
How to Administer: Shake well before use. The easiest method is to add the dosage to your pets food. Some pets can be finicky, if this occurs consider hiding the appropriate amount in food most pet’s love such as fish, chicken, yogurt, or a favorite treat. If your pet only eats dry food then soak kibbles at feeding time.
For Best Results
Dietary supplements are beneficial to the health and well-being of your pet and are safe for long-term use. Every pet responds to natural supplements differently, therefore it is important to be consistent and administer the product daily. Supplements generally take two to four weeks to take effect, however this will vary from one animal to the next.
Product Storage
All NHV Natural Pet Products contain no artificial additives, preservatives or coloring. Shelf life after opening is 6 months and must be refrigerated after opening.
Cautions and Contraindications
Avoid During Pregnancy.
kidney & bladder support

Kidney Failure Super Support Kit
Kidney Failure Super Support Kit
Tripsy, Milk Thistle & Turmeric
bundle and save with pet expert kits
3 month supply for a small to medium size pet
If your little one is always thirsty and needs to pee constantly, is losing weight and is vomiting regularly, they may be suffering from kidney failure. Our Kidney Failure Super Support Kit contains a blend of natural ingredients to help support both acute and chronic kidney disease. It is also beneficial for the liver.
- Natural support for the liver and kidneys
- May help prevent UTIs and encourage healthy fluid levels
- Contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties
- Safe for long-term use


If your little one is always thirsty and needs to pee constantly, is losing weight and is vomiting regularly, they may be suffering from kidney failure. Our Kidney Failure Super Support Kit contains a blend of natural ingredients to help support both acute and chronic kidney disease. It is also beneficial for the liver.
- Natural support for the liver and kidneys
- May help prevent UTIs and encourage healthy fluid levels
- Contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties
- Safe for long-term use

There are two types of kidney failure in dogs and cats: acute and chronic. Acute kidney failure is when the kidney rapidly deteriorates from your pet ingesting something toxic like grapes, ibuprofen, or antifreeze. There is no known cause for chronic kidney failure, but this condition develops when your pet's kidneys lose functionality over time.
There is no cure for kidney disease, but if caught early and with lots of love and care, you can manage symptoms of renal failure in dogs and cats and give your furkiddos the best quality of life possible. Keeping your little one hydrated is the biggest concern. Switching your pet to a kidney-friendly diet, having fresh water available, and adding nutritional supplements can greatly improve the quality of your little one's life. Administering IV fluids to your four-legged friend may also be necessary to improve hydration levels.
Kidney disease symptoms in pets can overlap with other health conditions such as diabetes in pet and urinary tract stones, so if you notice any of the symptoms listed below, you will want to bring your little one to the vet for some tests.
Common Symptoms of Kidney Failure in Dogs and Cats
- Increased water intake and urination
- Weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting
- Nausea
How NHV Supplements Address Kidney Failure in Dogs and Cats
Tripsy, Milk Thistle and Turmeric all work together to strengthen the liver and kidneys, soothe inflammation, and help heal damaged tissue.
TRIPSY
- Beneficial support for the kidneys and urinary tract
- May help prevent the formation of kidney stones
- May reduce or control infection (help prevent UTIs)
- Safe for long-term use
MILK THISTLE
- Natural aid to support liver and kidney function
- Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory support
- Encourages regeneration of the liver
- Ideal support for kidney disease
TURMERIC
- Rich in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties
- Helps improve liver and kidney function
- Supports heart and circulatory function
Natural Kidney Support For Your Pet
It’s great to know that there are ways to support your little one’s health naturally! All NHV products use only the finest organic, wild-crafted ingredients and formulated by the combined efforts of a master herbalist and veterinarian with 50+ years of experience. If you have any questions about renal failure in dogs and cats or need any holistic advice, please get in touch with an NHV pet expert!
- item number
- BD5067
- weight
- 2.1
- volume
- 3 x 3.4 fl. oz (100ml)
- form
- liquid
- life stages
- adult, senior, puppy/kitten
- made in
- Canada
Made with the finest, organically grown, or ethically harvested herbs. Made specifically for pets, vet-formulated and vet approved.
Tripsy™ for Dogs and Cats
- Echinacea purpurea is beneficial for promoting healing, increasing immune cells and promoting urinary tract health.
- Gravel root is beneficial for urinary tract health and to help prevent infections (UTIs). It has anti-inflammatory properties which can help with discomfort.
- Marshmallow helps to reduce swelling and inflammation and help fight infections in the urinary tract.
- Oregon grape helps the body fight a range of bacterial and fungal infections. It contains alkaloids, resins and tannins which are beneficial for immune function.
- Parsley piert has a long history of use in modern herbalism for supporting kidney function and recurring urinary infections.
- Stone root contains healing properties to help improve kidney inflammation, help improve urine flow, and help prevent urinary calculi.
- Wild hydrangea has been used in modern herbalism for helping to prevent the formation of calculi and to soothe inflammation in the kidneys.
Milk Thistle
- Milk Thistle has been prized for centuries due to its healing effects on the liver. It contains many beneficial compounds such as free radical scavengers which encourage liver cell regeneration. Milk Thistle is also beneficial support for kidneys damaged by infection, illness, radiation therapy or medication.
Turmeric
- Turmeric is a spice that has been highly prized for its healing properties. It is especially beneficial for liver function, autoimmune disease and for soothing inflammation in the body.
- Black Pepper is a nutrient rich spice with antioxidant properties. It is helpful for improving circulation, protecting cells from oxidative damage and for making turmeric’s properties more bioavailable.
Pet's Weight Dosage
To be taken twice daily. All NHV supplements are designed to be used together, and can, therefore, be given at once for convenience.
Select your pet's weight to determine the correct dose.
To be taken twice daily. Determine your pet’s weight and then use the easy chart below to determine the correct dose. This is the minimum dosage.
Pet's Weight Dosage
0 - 15 lb = 0.5 ml
16 - 30 lb = 1.0 ml
31 - 45 lb = 1.5 ml
46 - 60 lb = 2.0 ml
61 - 75 lb = 2.5 ml
Over 75 lb = 3.0 ml
For small animals (rabbits, ferrets), avians and reptiles use 1 drop for every 2 lb of body weight.
How to Administer
Shake well before use. The easiest method is to use the dropper provided and place the drops into your pet’s food or favorite treat. You can also use the dropper and squirt directly into the pet’s mouth. Some pets can be finicky, if this occurs consider hiding the drops in foods most pet’s love such as fish, chicken or yogurt or a favorite treat. If your pet only eats dry food then soak a few kibbles at feeding time.
For Best Results
Herbal dietary supplements are beneficial to the health and well-being of your pet and are safe for long-term use. Every pet responds to natural herbal supplements differently, therefore it is important to be consistent and administer the product daily. Supplements generally take two to four weeks to take effect, however this will vary from one animal to the next.
Product Storage
All NHV Natural Pet Products are pure herbal extracts and contain no artificial additives, preservatives or coloring. Shelf life after opening is 6 months and must be refrigerated after opening.
Cautions and Contraindications
Do not use in pregnant or nursing animals.
All information provided by NHV Natural Pet Products is for educational purposes only.
-
Description
There are two types of kidney failure in dogs and cats: acute and chronic. Acute kidney failure is when the kidney rapidly deteriorates from your pet ingesting something toxic like grapes, ibuprofen, or antifreeze. There is no known cause for chronic kidney failure, but this condition develops when your pet's kidneys lose functionality over time.
There is no cure for kidney disease, but if caught early and with lots of love and care, you can manage symptoms of renal failure in dogs and cats and give your furkiddos the best quality of life possible. Keeping your little one hydrated is the biggest concern. Switching your pet to a kidney-friendly diet, having fresh water available, and adding nutritional supplements can greatly improve the quality of your little one's life. Administering IV fluids to your four-legged friend may also be necessary to improve hydration levels.
Kidney disease symptoms in pets can overlap with other health conditions such as diabetes in pet and urinary tract stones, so if you notice any of the symptoms listed below, you will want to bring your little one to the vet for some tests.
Common Symptoms of Kidney Failure in Dogs and Cats
- Increased water intake and urination
- Weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting
- Nausea
How NHV Supplements Address Kidney Failure in Dogs and Cats
Tripsy, Milk Thistle and Turmeric all work together to strengthen the liver and kidneys, soothe inflammation, and help heal damaged tissue.
TRIPSY
- Beneficial support for the kidneys and urinary tract
- May help prevent the formation of kidney stones
- May reduce or control infection (help prevent UTIs)
- Safe for long-term use
MILK THISTLE
- Natural aid to support liver and kidney function
- Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory support
- Encourages regeneration of the liver
- Ideal support for kidney disease
TURMERIC
- Rich in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties
- Helps improve liver and kidney function
- Supports heart and circulatory function
Natural Kidney Support For Your Pet
It’s great to know that there are ways to support your little one’s health naturally! All NHV products use only the finest organic, wild-crafted ingredients and formulated by the combined efforts of a master herbalist and veterinarian with 50+ years of experience. If you have any questions about renal failure in dogs and cats or need any holistic advice, please get in touch with an NHV pet expert!
- item number
- BD5067
- weight
- 2.1
- volume
- 3 x 3.4 fl. oz (100ml)
- form
- liquid
- life stages
- adult, senior, puppy/kitten
- made in
- Canada
-
Ingredients
Made with the finest, organically grown, or ethically harvested herbs. Made specifically for pets, vet-formulated and vet approved.
Tripsy™ for Dogs and Cats
- Echinacea purpurea is beneficial for promoting healing, increasing immune cells and promoting urinary tract health.
- Gravel root is beneficial for urinary tract health and to help prevent infections (UTIs). It has anti-inflammatory properties which can help with discomfort.
- Marshmallow helps to reduce swelling and inflammation and help fight infections in the urinary tract.
- Oregon grape helps the body fight a range of bacterial and fungal infections. It contains alkaloids, resins and tannins which are beneficial for immune function.
- Parsley piert has a long history of use in modern herbalism for supporting kidney function and recurring urinary infections.
- Stone root contains healing properties to help improve kidney inflammation, help improve urine flow, and help prevent urinary calculi.
- Wild hydrangea has been used in modern herbalism for helping to prevent the formation of calculi and to soothe inflammation in the kidneys.
Milk Thistle
- Milk Thistle has been prized for centuries due to its healing effects on the liver. It contains many beneficial compounds such as free radical scavengers which encourage liver cell regeneration. Milk Thistle is also beneficial support for kidneys damaged by infection, illness, radiation therapy or medication.
Turmeric
- Turmeric is a spice that has been highly prized for its healing properties. It is especially beneficial for liver function, autoimmune disease and for soothing inflammation in the body.
- Black Pepper is a nutrient rich spice with antioxidant properties. It is helpful for improving circulation, protecting cells from oxidative damage and for making turmeric’s properties more bioavailable.
-
Dosage
Pet's Weight Dosage
To be taken twice daily. All NHV supplements are designed to be used together, and can, therefore, be given at once for convenience.
Select your pet's weight to determine the correct dose.
To be taken twice daily. Determine your pet’s weight and then use the easy chart below to determine the correct dose. This is the minimum dosage.
Pet's Weight Dosage
0 - 15 lb = 0.5 ml
16 - 30 lb = 1.0 ml
31 - 45 lb = 1.5 ml
46 - 60 lb = 2.0 ml
61 - 75 lb = 2.5 ml
Over 75 lb = 3.0 ml
For small animals (rabbits, ferrets), avians and reptiles use 1 drop for every 2 lb of body weight.
How to Administer
Shake well before use. The easiest method is to use the dropper provided and place the drops into your pet’s food or favorite treat. You can also use the dropper and squirt directly into the pet’s mouth. Some pets can be finicky, if this occurs consider hiding the drops in foods most pet’s love such as fish, chicken or yogurt or a favorite treat. If your pet only eats dry food then soak a few kibbles at feeding time.For Best Results
Herbal dietary supplements are beneficial to the health and well-being of your pet and are safe for long-term use. Every pet responds to natural herbal supplements differently, therefore it is important to be consistent and administer the product daily. Supplements generally take two to four weeks to take effect, however this will vary from one animal to the next.Product Storage
All NHV Natural Pet Products are pure herbal extracts and contain no artificial additives, preservatives or coloring. Shelf life after opening is 6 months and must be refrigerated after opening.Cautions and Contraindications
Do not use in pregnant or nursing animals.All information provided by NHV Natural Pet Products is for educational purposes only.
Published: May 16, 2025