- A veterinarian may prescribe treatment with subcutaneous fluids. This treatment can be administered at a veterinary practice or in the home after instruction by the veterinarian. Subcutaneous fluids are given to cats that do not drink enough water. A needle is inserted under the skin to inject the fluids, which help the kidneys function properly.
- A veterinarian may prescribe a special diet to treat kidney disease. The food will be low in salt, protein and phosphorus. The diet will help reduce the amount of waste that the kidneys must handle.
- IV fluids are used when a cat is in serious condition. Dehydration can occur because of kidney failure. IV fluids are administered and monitored by the veterinarian.
- Dialysis is a process where the blood is cleaned by a machine. It is used to treat acute (fast onset) kidney failure where the kidneys need time to recover function. Dialysis is also used for long-term kidney failure in cats that tolerate the treatment.
- A very costly alternative is a kidney transplant. This option is available from veterinary colleges. Just as in humans, there is risk of rejection and a major surgery is involved.
