|
Fact! Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is very common in older pets and affects approximately 3 in 10 geriatric cats |
FAQ
What Does Kidney Failure in Cats Really Mean?
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is very common in older pets and affects approximately 3 in 10 geriatric cats. Normally, healthy and happy kidneys do a miraculous job of:
Chronic kidney disease--When the level of kidney function declines slowly (chronically), cats may compensate for months to years. Mild signs of illness and dehydration will progress as the kidney disease worsens.
Acute kidney disease--If your kitty suffers a severe and/or abrupt injury to the kidneys, as with acute kidney injury (AKI), she may become profoundly ill, and stop producing urine altogether, which too often leads to death.
An important goal of veterinarians is to recognize kidney disease early, when there is a better chance to find and treat an underlying cause or to slow progression, protecting those precious kidneys, and helping your cat to feel well for as long as possible.
- Pet Health Network
- Eliminating protein wastes
- Balancing body water, salts and acids
- Producing high quality urine
Chronic kidney disease--When the level of kidney function declines slowly (chronically), cats may compensate for months to years. Mild signs of illness and dehydration will progress as the kidney disease worsens.
Acute kidney disease--If your kitty suffers a severe and/or abrupt injury to the kidneys, as with acute kidney injury (AKI), she may become profoundly ill, and stop producing urine altogether, which too often leads to death.
An important goal of veterinarians is to recognize kidney disease early, when there is a better chance to find and treat an underlying cause or to slow progression, protecting those precious kidneys, and helping your cat to feel well for as long as possible.
- Pet Health Network
WHAT SYMPTOMS WILL MY CAT SHOW?
The symptoms may vary from cat to cat. Some symptoms may include-
- Frequent urinating. ...
- Drinking a lot of water. ...
- Bacterial infections of the bladder and kidney.
- Weight loss and decreased appetite.
- Vomiting, diarrhea, and bloody or cloudy urine.
- Mouth ulcers, especially on the gums and tongue.
- Bad breath with an ammonia-like odor.
DIAGNOSIS & TREATMENT OPTIONS
Your vet will do blood and urine tests. X-rays, an ultrasound (an image of your cat’s insides), or biopsy (tissue sample) might also be needed to make a diagnosis. If kidney disease is found, treatments can range from surgery to remove blockages to IV fluids to a special diet and medications. You may also be able to inject fluids under your cat’s skin at home. Talk to your vet about the best options.
