Living with a cat diagnosed with chronic kidney disease can be challenging, especially when it comes to administering subcutaneous fluids. As their kidney function deteriorates, cats with this condition often require regular fluid injections. If you’re looking for options on where to buy subcutaneous fluids for cats without a vet prescription, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll explore various sources for purchasing these fluids and provide helpful tips along the way.
Veterinary Office
When we first brought our cat home from the hospital, our local vet’s office provided us with a 1,000 mL lactated ringer, an IV administration line, and a handful of needles for $20. However, considering that our cat required 100 mL of fluids three times a week, we realized that the costs would quickly add up. So, we decided to explore other options for purchasing our own subcutaneous fluid setup.
Online Sources for Subcutaneous Fluids
Chewy
Chewy is a go-to destination for pet prescriptions, offering competitive pricing. While the price of lactated ringers at Chewy is slightly higher than at a veterinary office, it still remains reasonable at around $10 per bag. Additionally, if you bundle your fluids with other items and reach a total of $50, you can benefit from free shipping. If you already receive monthly shipments of pet food and litter from Chewy, this could be a convenient option for you.
Walmart PetRX
Walmart PetRX is another online source where you can find a good deal on subcutaneous fluids. If you order six or more bags, each bag will be discounted to $9.08, and you’ll also receive free shipping. You can either upload a copy of your prescription or provide your vet’s information for verification. Additionally, consider taking advantage of their autoship program for added convenience.
Physical Stores Selling Subcutaneous Fluids for Cats
While any pharmacy should be able to fill your pet’s prescription, most do not carry subcutaneous fluids in stock and will need to order them. Therefore, be prepared to wait a day or two for your fluids to arrive.
Walgreens
Walgreens tops the list because it often offers exceptional deals on cases of lactated ringers. You can purchase 12 1,000 mL bags for just $32, which is an incredible price. However, acquiring this deal requires some effort on your part. First, obtain a free discount card from this link. This card will help you save on the lactated ringers. Visit your local Walgreens store during a time when the main pharmacist is on duty and present the universal drug codes for lactated ringers: NDC #00409-7953-09 or #0264-7750-00. Don’t forget to use your discount card for even more savings. Keep in mind that these codes represent a case of 12 bags, so the price may initially seem high but becomes much more affordable when divided by 12.
Costco
You do not need to be a Costco member to use their pharmacy services, and they carry pet medications as well. However, since Costco is not accustomed to these requests, it’s recommended to call ahead. Pricing may vary depending on the location, so consider calling multiple Costcos in your area. If you are a member, sign up for their prescription savings club to obtain additional savings. When inquiring about lactated ringers, you can mention the universal drug code NDC #0264-7750-00 (Braun-brand, DEHP FREE). Remember that Costco can order other brands of lactated ringers through their pharmacy.
Obtaining Lactated Ringers for Cats Without a Vet Prescription
Please note that on the fluid bags themselves, it is explicitly stated that they are for prescription use only. It is essential to consult with a veterinarian before administering fluids, as there may be side effects or underlying conditions to consider. Furthermore, purchasing lactated ringers without a prescription tends to be significantly more expensive compared to other online sources. While Mountain Side Medical Equipment is one place that reportedly sells fluids without a prescription, it is not recommended due to the inflated prices.
Other Subcutaneous Supplies
Besides the bags of fluids, there are additional supplies required for administering subcutaneous fluids to your cat.
Needles for Subcutaneous Fluids
When it comes to needle sizes, veterinarians typically use 18G needles, but these can be quite large. If you are obtaining supplies on your own, it is advisable to order smaller sizes. The higher the number (20G, 21G, etc.), the smaller the needle overall. Smaller needles can make the injection process more comfortable for your cat, and some cats may prefer the slower flow rate that comes with smaller needles. Consider looking for ultra-thin wall needles to maximize fluid flow. Terumo needles are highly regarded for their unique double bevel and ultra-thin wall design, providing a more comfortable experience for your pets.
IV Admin Set
To connect the needle to the fluid bag, you’ll need an IV admin set. These sets are generally generic and easy to use. Opt for longer sets if possible, as they allow you to hang the bag higher during administration, facilitating a faster flow. Remember to dispose of the admin set after each use and avoid reusing it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I purchase subcutaneous fluids for cats without a vet prescription?
A: While there are some sources that claim to sell subcutaneous fluids without a prescription, it is important to consult with a veterinarian before administering any fluids to your cat.
Q: Where can I find the best deals on subcutaneous fluids for cats?
A: Walgreens and Costco often offer competitive pricing on cases of lactated ringers. Remember to use discount cards and inquire about specific drug codes when seeking the best deals.
Q: Are there any alternative options for administering fluids to difficult cats?
A: If you’re struggling to administer fluids to your cat, we have provided helpful tips in a separate article on our website. Check it out for some useful techniques.
Conclusion
We hope that this guide has helped you navigate the world of purchasing subcutaneous fluids for cats without a vet prescription. Dealing with kidney disease in our own cat has brought us both challenges and rewards. The last thing you should worry about is the availability of supplies or overwhelming medical bills. If you have any additional cost-saving suggestions or experiences with purchasing subcutaneous fluids, please share them with us in the comments below. For more informative content on pet care, visit Pawsoha.