Our guide to kidney disease in Cats

Despite their reputation for having nine lives, cats are susceptible to many ailments and illnesses just like other pets. A cats’ kidneys begin to fail with age and if left untreated kidney disease can lead to a series of health problems. Unfortunately when it’s chronic, there is no cure. Older cats aren’t the only ones at risk. Kittens can be born with kidney disease with trauma and infection  also contributing. However, with early diagnosis and good care, you can help boost the quality and length of your cat’s life. Here is our guide for Kidney disease in cats:

Types of Kidney Disease

There are two types of kidney failure in cats. Each has different causes, treatments, and outlooks.

Acute renal failure can affect cats of all ages and suddenly develops over a matter of days or weeks and can be caused by;

• Poisons such as Antifreeze, toxic plants like lilies, pesticides, cleaning fluids, and certain human medications that’s are highly poisonous to your cat’s kidneys. Ensure your garage and house are cat safe, with no harmful substances exposed to them.
• Trauma via injury, especially involving a burst bladder or broken pelvis.
• Heart failure with low blood pressure, which reduces blood flow to the kidneys.
• Blockages affecting the flow of blood into the kidney and the flow of urine out of it along with any infection in the kidneys.
• Illness or shock from rapid dehydration or loss of blood through overheating in hot weather, along vomiting and diarrhoea can all cause a big dip in fluids.

If diagnosed in ample time, acute renal failure can often be reversed.

Chronic kidney disease are found mostly in middle-ages and older cats and aren’t always clear, even to vets, causes include:

• Kidney infections and blockages, which may not result in acute renal failure, but severely affect kidney function at a low level for months or years.
• Consequence of another conditions, from advanced dental disease and high blood pressure to thyroid problems and also cancer

 11 Signs Your Cat’s Kidneys May Be Failing

Regular health checks at your vet are essential however also look out for any irregular or unusual behaviour from your cat including;

• Frequent urinating including urinating outside their litter.
• Drinking an excessive amount of water.
• Weight loss and decreased appetite.
• Vomiting, diarrhoea, and bloody or cloudy urine.
• Mouth ulcers, especially on the gums and tongue.
• Bad breath with an ammonia-like odour.
• A brownish-coloured tongue.
• A dry coat.
• Constipation.
• Weakness.

 Diagnosis and Treatment

Your vet will do blood and urine tests along with X-rays, and an ultrasound. A tissue sample might also be needed to make a coherent diagnosis. If kidney disease is found, treatments can range from surgery to remove blockages, IV fluids or special diet and medications. Your vet can advise as to the best course of treatment for your cat.

With a carefully managed diet; plenty of fresh, clean water; a calm comfortable environment; and regular veterinary check-ups, you can help your cat live their best life possible. If you are concerned your cat may have kidney disease, take them to see your vet as soon as possible.

Don’t forget that insuring your cat will help you pay for these medical expenses should your cat become ill. Pet protect offer comprehensive lifetime cat insurance that will cover any ongoing or recurring treatments that your cat may require to get them back to full health.