Cats can develop feline kidney disease during any phase of their life, but it is most commonly seen in older cats. When cat owners are given this diagnosis, many assume this condition is fatal and believe their pet may only have several months or a year to live. Depending on the progression of this disease it is possible for a cat to have a healthy life given proper nutrition, care, medication and follow-up treatments.
Types of Renal Failure
Feline kidney disease can be divided into two categories – acute renal failure (ARF) and chronic renal failure (CRF.) Acute renal failure in cats results in the sudden shutdown of kidney function. This is commonly the result of ingestion of toxic substances (such as antifreeze), blockage of the urinary tract, infection or trauma. Chronic renal failure also called feline kidney disease involves the progressive deterioration of kidney function. Cats tend to hide discomfort and illness, and the symptoms of CRF may not be noticeable until the condition has reached the end stages. However with early testing, diagnosis and treatment this condition is manageable and may never reach the final stage of kidney failure.
Symptoms and Testing
Once a cat reaches the age of 7 or older, it is recommended the annual exam includes specific blood work and urine to detect the deterioration of kidney function. Cats should be tested regardless of age if they become symptomatic of renal failure. The most common symptoms include, but are not limited to:
- Increased thirst
- Changes in bladder habits – including the increasing or decreasing of urination, urinating in unusual places, urinating outside the litter box, and blood in the urine
- Vomiting
- Decreased appetite
- Tenderness in the abdomen
- Dull coat
- Lack of interest in grooming
- Withdrawn or unusual behavior
Diagnosis
Blood work and urinalysis performed by your veterinarian can determine if a cat is non-symptomatic for feline kidney disease, confirm the symptoms or determine if other medical issues are present. Some infections and diseases (such as kidney stones) have the same symptoms as CRF.
Analysis of drawn blood will check BUN (blood urea and nitrogen) levels in addition to Creatinine levels. Elevated levels in either test indicate decreased kidney function and point to the beginning or advanced stages of renal failure.
Urinalysis verifies the urine concentration levels and if waste materials are being properly filtered. Also this test has the potential to rule out other disorders or infections with similar symptoms.
Treatment
Currently there is no cure for feline kidney disease - but this condition is not a death sentence and is manageable with proper treatment.
- Routine veterinary care – A cat with the potential to develop CRF or who has developed CRF needs routine check ups and medical care. Visits should be every year, six or three months depending on the cat’s condition.
- Medication – Depending on the stage, a number of medications are available to treat the symptoms and decrease any discomfort experienced.
- Water – Should be readily available for a cat in any condition, but is essential to prevent dehydration caused by this condition. Fluid therapy may be needed with regular injections of fluids at home or by your veterinarian.
- Diet – A prescription diet may be required to reduce the amount of stress place on the kidneys. This typically means feeding a diet that is low in protein, salt, and phosphorus resulting in less waste being produced by the cats’ body.
Prognosis
Cats can live a full and healthy life even with symptoms of renal failure because it is a manageable condition. Care for a cat with this condition requires dedication and commitment to continued treatment for the remainder of their life. However, in severe cases the owner may consider euthanasia – especially if pain or discomfort is being experienced and can not be alleviated.
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