Signs & Symptoms of Kidney Disease in Cats
Kidney disease, also known as chronic renal failure, occurs when the function of the kidneys is impaired. It is a common condition experienced by cats as they age, and is not always fatal if given the proper treatment and care.
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Description
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Kidneys have a layer of cells called nephrons that assist in the filtering of impurities in the blood, eventually passing them in the form of urine. With kidney disease, these nephrons are replaced with scar tissue over time, becoming non-functional.
Types
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The two types of kidney disease are acute renal failure--ARF--and chronic renal failure--CRF. ARF is the more serious of the two, occurring suddenly and often leading to death. CRF is the most common form, and develops more slowly, giving the cat more time to be helped.
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Cause
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Common causes of feline kidney disease are fungal, viral or bacterial infections, parasites and cancer. Autoimmune diseases and inherited disorders can also play a role in the development of the disease.
Symptoms
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The first symptoms seen in a cat with kidney disease are usually increased water consumption and urination. As time progresses and the kidneys fail, waste will build up in the blood, causing the cat to lose weight, vomit and become dehydrated.
Diagnosis
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To diagnose kidney disease, as well as the possible cause, urine and blood tests are performed. A physical examination is also done to eliminate the possibility of bladder blockages or tumors.
Treatments
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Although there is no cure, proper treatment will help the cat to live a long and productive life. Regular visits to the vet and antibiotics are helpful to ensure proper care of any infection, and a change in diet can help decrease stress on the kidneys. (reference 2)
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