Feline Kidney Disease
Fortunately, feline kidney disease is relatively rare in kittens. Kidney problems are more commonly found in adult elderly cats.
In fact, kidney disease is one the most common causes of death in cats. And with modern lifestyle, it seems as though the rate of kidney disease in cats has increased dramatically.
Kidneys are an indispensible part of the body. They filter waste from the body. When excess waste accumulates, there becomes an imbalance of minerals, water, and electrolytes in the body. Feline kidney failure usually leads to an early death and can occur when there is too much stress or damage to the kidneys.
As pet owners, we owe it to our feline friends to get the facts about feline kidney disease.
Causes of Kidney Disease in Felines
There are many causes of kidney disease in cats and kittens. Genetics plays a role in some forms of kidney disease. For example, certain breeds of cats (Persians, Exotic Shorthairs, Persian-related breeds) are prone to developing polycystic kidney disease. Some kittens are also born with poor kidney function. Others are born without one or even two kidneys.
Diabetes, feline infectious peritonitis, feline leukemia, untreated urinary tract infections, autoimmune diseases, and oral infections are all non-genetic causes of kidney disease. Sometimes, however, there may be no known cause of kidney disease and poor kidney function in felines.
Diagnosing Kidney Disease in Cats and Kittens
Diagnosing kidney disease in cats is based upon the warning signs a cat displays and also medical testing.
Common feline kidney disease symptoms and signs include:
- Increased Thirst
- Increased Urination
- Poor Appetite
- Weight Loss
- Diarrhea/Vomiting
- Bad Breath
- Abdominal Pain
- Blood in Urine
- Dull Coat
Blood samples will be taken to test for kidney function and electrolyte balance. X-rays, ultrasounds, and kidney biopsies may be used to further check the extent of kidney damage.
Treating Kidney Disease
Feline kidney disease treatment is based on the type disease process and the amount of damage done to the kidneys. Early stage kidney disease may be treated somewhat differently than advanced end stage kidney disease.
However, generally most forms of kidney disease are managed with fluid treatments to flush out the toxins and correct mineral imbalances. Antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, and pain relievers can be used to reduce some of the effects of kidney disease. Surgery may be needed in cases of kidney tumors and in severe kidney failure.
Diet plays a key role in managing kidney disease. Most cats require a high protein diet. The challenge with feline kidney disease is to provide enough protein in a cat’s meal to meet its nutritional requirements, yet not overdo it with protein. Excess protein is hard for the kidneys to process and can cause a build of toxins.
There are commercial veterinary prescribed diets for cats with kidney conditions. With your vet’s guidance, you can also try a raw food diet. Be sure to include non-protein based calories with cat safe veggies.
Kidney transplantation is a very last resort in treating advance kidney disease/failure. However, it’s costly and you’ll need to find a veterinary specialist that can do the procedure.
Prevention
- Choose feline breeds carefully – know the history before you select a kitten
- Supply your cat with plenty of drinking water
- Place toxic household chemicals out of your cat’s reach
- Start your kitten off on a raw food or canned food only diet
- Treat lower urinary tract infections early before they spread to the kidneys
- Get prompt medical treatment for any changes in your cat’s behavior or urinary habits
Return from Feline Kidney Disease to Kitten Health
Return from Feline Kidney Disease to All About Cute Kittens
|
