Kidney Disease

Your cat’s kidneys play a vital role in maintaining thier health. They help control blood pressure, regulate the bloodstream, produce important hormones, enzymes, and red blood cells, as well as remove metabolic waste from the blood. If their kidneys aren’t able to do their job properly, this can lead to significant and life-threatening problems, such as Kidney Failure.

EARLY DIAGNOSIS IS KEY

Catching chronic kidney disease (CKD) before symptoms become obvious is important, because typically signs do not appear until 75 percent of kidney function has been lost. Make sure your cat receives regular check-ups. The sooner kidney disease is diagnosed, the more time you have to address the underlying cause or slow the disease’s progression. Make a note to ask your vet about SDMA screening - a kidney function test.

The chance of a cat developing kidney problems doubles between 10 and 15 years. This is why we recommended that all cats 7 years and older have a “Senior Blood Test” at their annual check-up in order to determine if they have kidney issues.

Common Causes of Kidney Failure

Kidney Failure, also known as Kidney Disease, is one of the most common causes of severe illnesses in cats, especially in older cats. There are two categories of Kidney Failure in cats: Acute Kidney Failure and Chronic Kidney Failure. Signs of acute kidney failure usually manifest over a week or month’s time, while chronic kidney failure is present for a longer period. The risk for cat kidney failure is higher in certain breeds like Persians or Angoras, but the disease is typically acquired.

Potential Causes of Kidney Failure :

·      Decreased blood or urine flow to the kidneys

·      High blood pressure 

·      Cancer

·      Obstructions such as kidney stones 

·      Ingestion of toxic substances, such as antifreeze, pesticides, medications and cleaning chemicals

·      Advanced dental disease 

·      Some long-haired breeds (such as Persians and Angoras) have a genetic predisposition to the disease 

·      Age older than seven years

·      A food high in phosphorus or increased levels of protein can increase the disease’s progression 

·      Outdoor cats have a higher risk for acute problems due to their potential increased exposure to toxins

Common signs of kidney failure in cats may be difficult to detect because of their similarities to other disorders like diabetes and hyperthyroidism. Unfortunately, cat kidney failure is a progressive disease, and symptoms may not be apparent for a long time. If you notice any of these signs, contact your veterinarian.

·      Reduced appetite

·      Increased thirst

·      Frequent or no urination

·      Bloody or cloudy urine

·      Vomiting

·      Poor coat appearance

·      Lethargy and depression

·      Weight loss

·      Bad breath

·      Sore mouth or mouth ulcers

·      Diarrhoea or constipation

·      Increased sleeping

To check your cat’s kidney function a simple blood test is performed within the clinic. It is also a good idea to request a blood test annually for our older kitty bubbas with their health check! 

- If you are concerned your cat may have Kidney problems contact the clinic and schedule an appointment.