Cats with kidney problems have a reduced ability to excrete waste products into their urine, leading to a potentially toxic build-up in the bloodstream. While some kidney problems occur suddenly, chronic kidney disease shows up more slowly over a period of time. Timely veterinary assessment with ongoing supportive care and dietary management can allow some cats with kidney problems to maintain an adequate quality of life.
The following are some causes of both chronic and acute kidney problems:
If your cat shows any of the following symptoms, please take her to see your veterinarian.
Kidney disease is most prevalent in older cats, but can occur in cats of any age. Cats can be born with abnormal kidneys that never function properly. Some breeds, like Persians, are predisposed to such hereditary kidney problems.
Additionally, outdoor cats run the risk of acute problems because they have more chance of exposure to toxins that can cause kidney failure, namely antifreeze.
There are various ways to determine if a cat has kidney disease. Your veterinarian will perform a physical examination and take blood and urine samples to see if there is a problem with your pets kidneys. Radiographs, ultrasound, blood pressure measurement or biopsy of the kidney may also be performed.
It may be difficult to determine a specific cause of kidney disease. Emergency treatment and hospitalized care may be needed depending on the stage of kidney failure a cat is in. Acute kidney disease can sometimes be caught early on, when there is minimal damage to the kidneys. In some cases, long-term supportive treatment is beneficial. The following are possible treatments:
Feeding your cat a special diet will not cure kidney disease, but managing your cats intake of protein, phosphorous and sodium can help diminish symptoms and add to your pets overall health and longevity. There are many commercially available veterinary diets for cats with chronic kidney disease.
Please remember, changes in your cats diet should not be made abruptly. Speak to your vet about gently transitioning your cat to a new food.
Be diligent with your cats eating regimen, keeping strictly to the diet your vet has prescribed. Always give her access to clean, fresh water, keep your home environment as calm as possible and make sure she has routine medical checkups and tests as advised by your vet.
Read more:
Kidney Disease | ASPCA