Losing balance

As some of you may remember, Sami is just about 18. She was to the vet recently and faired pretty well. However, since yesterday, she suddenly started losing balance. Like when she wakes up and shakes, like most cats do, she sort of falls over, as if her back legs are giving out. She's also started drinking more water than usual. Will be calling the vet anyway but an ideas on what may be going on?
We pretty much have to keep Buddy confined to a room because he refuses to leave her alone. So the kitty tension is sort of high right now.

Hm, my mind goes straight to kidneys- of course, that is probably because I've done a lot of research about ARF because of Mackerel recently...

But lack of coordination/balance is definitely a symptom of ARF and the drinking more water than normal could be a sign of that as well.

I'm sure that's not it, but that's the first thing that came to my mind.

Sami. And for you. Let us know what the vet says.

Well considering Sami's age and the all the money it would cost for tests and whatnot, it was recommended she be put down. Tonight she is so cranky and in obvious pain, she was growling just moving around. She even refused treats. She hasn't done that once in the 7 years I've been around her. Just looking at her you can tell she is miserable and I think she is letting us know its almost time to let go.
My roommate is going to pick a time, when she's ready..and I guess we go from there. I feel bad. She is so upset...but I know what its like to lose pets.
We're just going to spend some good quality time with her and make these last days as comfortable as possible for our old lady.

I'm so sorry to hear about Sami. It sounds like you're making the right decision, as hard as it is. -huggles- I hope that you have a wonderful few days with her, and that she passes peacefully.
Sami

I'm so sorry to read this about Sami.