How to Care for Feline Kidney Disease
Kidney disease is a medical condition common in older cats that affects the ability of the kidneys to excrete waste products through the urine. According to veterinarian Lisa Pierson, chronic kidney disease is the leading cause of death in cats. In most cases, kidney disease develops slowly and may present symptoms such as excessive urination, weight loss and vomiting. If left untreated, kidney disease can lead to permanent kidney damage or death, so talk to your veterinarian about treatment options. The following tips can help you care for your cat in conjunction with veterinary treatment.
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Things You'll Need
- Two or three cat bowls for water Veterinarian-approved cat food Vitamin supplements, if applicable
Instructions
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Follow all of your veterinarian's instructions. According to the ASPCA, your vet may prescribe medication, fluid therapy or dialysis to treat the kidney disease. The precise treatment regimen will depend on the severity and underlying causes of your cat's kidney disease.
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Provide your cat with plenty of fresh water to ensure adequate fluid intake. Keep at least two or three bowls of water around the house. According to Pierson, cats do not have a strong thirst drive and can benefit from canned cat food, which contains more moisture than dry food. Ask your veterinarian if you should consider a canned food for your cat.
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Feed your cat on a regular schedule and only use a cat food approved by your veterinarian. There are now several major products designed specifically for cats with kidney disease, including those made by Eukanuba, Iams and Purina. According to the ASPCA, these foods typically provide less protein and sodium than normal cat foods to reduce stress on the kidneys.
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Introduce any new foods gradually. If your veterinarian decides to put your cat on a specially formulated diet, the old food should be phased out over the course of a week or two to prevent stomach upset.
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Ask your veterinarian if you should provide vitamin supplements for your cat. According to Long Beach Animal Hospital, cats with kidney disease may be deficient in water-soluble vitamins, particularly B-complex vitamins, and may require a supplement.
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Keep your cat calm by reducing stress in her environment. Kidney disease is very stressful, so make sure she has a warm, comfortable environment in which to relax and get adequate sleep. If you have small children or dogs, make sure they do not pester your cat.
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Bring your cat in regularly for veterinary check-ups. Kidney disease can be managed successfully, but it will require regular veterinary appointments to make sure your cat's condition is not worsening.
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Tips & Warnings
Take your cat to the veterinarian immediately if you notice she has stopped urinating. This can be a sign of acute kidney failure, and it can lead to death if not treated immediately.
Resources
- Photo Credit Adam Jakubiak at www.sxc.hu
