Helen,
    I don't know what Francis' kidney values were, but a very high
creatinine value is common when cats are first seen with chronic renal
failure. Usually, after treatment with IV fluids or sub-q fluids, the
values come down from the "system shock" level to the "real" level. A
good site for CRF is http://www.felinecrf.org/index.htm. A good support
group is: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Feline-CRF-Support/
    Tigger (RB) was very high (creatinine of 12) when he was diagnosed. He
didn't allow the vet to do IV fluids, so we did sub-q and his numbers
started coming down. Unfortunately, they bottomed out at 9 - which is
still major renal failure. Tigger made it three months, until he was
going down hill too fast and we let him go. Sigh. We still miss our
brainless tabby.
    So, once the shock wears off and you're seeing a vet you trust, do what
is best for Francis. Fluids help a LOT in how the cat feels. You can
learn to give sub-q fluids at home, so Francis isn't stressed out to
badly. Obviously, love him each day, for as many days as you have. Be
prepared for an emotional roller-coaster.
    {{{{hugs}}}} from someone who has been there. Education helps, so you
can be a partner with the vet in treating Francis. You'll know when it
is time - Francis will tell you. May it be many months, even years, from
now.

            Kalynnda