Re: I need a hug lol...UPDATE
I know exactly how you are feeling now. These little furbabies will give me a nervous breakdown some day. They are members of the family, not possessions.
Make sure (even if you are afraid of sounding like a broken record) that the vet is well aware of his age and the concerns you have about the kidney issue. Ask about whatever precautions they use for older cats with that condition. It is possible that they give him extra fluids to keep the kidneys functioning well during and after the surgery. One of my older cats needed to have his ear examined and a tumor removed IF they found one there, so they told me that he would get the extra fluids. He was fine after the anethesia and was his usual grumbly self with the staff.
Also, I have given subcutaneous fluids to 3 of my senior cats. When the kidney function reaches a certain level, my vet suggests the fluids. He taught us how to do it. You just have to go under the skin, not find a vein or anything that needs a professional. You get (and pay for) what they call a "set up kit." That will be the tubing to reach from the IV bag ( just like a human IV bag) to the cat, the right size needle, and the IV bag of fluids. He will tell use how much to give and how often. Some cats need it every day, some of mine could get it every other day. Your vet will know what's best.
It is best to have the bag hanging high so the fluid runs easily, just like they do with people. It might also be better to have 2 people doing this. It depends on the cat. My husband could actually do the grumbly cat by himself, but it took 3 people at the vets office!
Some cats do very well with this and their lives are happily prolonged. Others don't. It just depends on the kidneys themselves.
One of mine looked and acted so bad, the vet think she would last very long. The vet gave her a 3 months at most diagnosis. With the fluids,she made a complete turn around and lived very happily for 2 more years and then we had to put her to sleep because of cancer, not the kidneys!
There is also a special food for the kidneys, only availbe at the vet's office It comes in canned and dry forms. My cats LOVE the dry, hate the wet. It is made by Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc. He would give you the FELINE K/D ( kidney diet).
Saying prayers for both kitty and you! Keep us updated and let me know if I can be of any more help.
Susan Paulson
"The smallest feline is a masterpiece.".....Leonardo da Vince