One of the most common urinary tract problems in cats, especially older cats, is kidney disease. This serious problem will get worse if you don't take action. Here is more information on feline kidney (or renal) disease, its signs and symptoms, and what you and your veterinarian can do to give your cat a good quality life.
What Are the Signs of Kidney Disease in Cats?
At first, your cat may not exhibit any signs, but as the disease progresses, he or she will be lethargic and begin to lose weight. You may also notice grooming issues with rough, matted f fur. Your cat's thirst and urinary output will increase greatly. Severe cases may involve vomiting, diarrhea, and your cat may have a brownish tongue.
What Are the Different Types of Kidney Disease?
There are basically two types of kidney disease in cats: Chronic and acute. Chronic kidney disease is gradual and mostly involves older cats and those cats who have a predisposition to other types of urinary tract infections. Acute types are often caused by trauma, poisons, blood loss, severe dehydration, and blockage.
What Can Be Done to Prevent Kidney Disease?
You can help prevent or reduce the chance of kidney problems in your cat by doing some of the following:
- Keep the litterbox in immaculate condition.
- Keep the water dish full of clean, fresh water.
- Feed a kidney-friendly diet that keeps blood-pressure and obesity low.
- Take your cat to the veterinarian for a regular checkup.
- Keep all poisons away from cats.
- Keep cats indoors to reduce the chance of injury.
How Will the Veterinarian Check for Kidney Disease?
Your veterinarian can check your cat's kidney functions through urine and blood tests including urine sediment and a protein to creatinine ratio test. Your cat's blood pressure as well as a physical exam to check the kidney size will also be performed. In some cases, an ultrasound or another imaging test may be needed. Learn more by contacting a local animal hospital.
What Treatments are Available for Kidney Disease?
Treatment is based on the type of kidney disease your cat is suffering from. Acute kidney disease is usually treated at the cause, and often when that cause is corrected, the kidneys can recover. However, chronic kidney disease is more tricky to treat. Often, treatment will involve making on-going and permanent changes to your cat's lifestyle to slow down the progression of the disease.
While kidney disease is common in cats, it doesn't necessarily mean that your cat will suffer long-term. With the proper diagnosis and treatment, he or she should be able to live a normal life and life span. If your cat is showing signs of kidney disease, or any other signs that your cat is sick or injured, then visit an animal hospital as soon as possible.
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