Kidney failure in cats is a common cause of serious illness – especially in middle-aged and older cats. We divide kidney failure into two categories: acute and chronic kidney failure. Depending on the type, the severity of symptoms can vary. The condition is equally serious regardless of the type. The kidneys play an important role in your cat’s body – and if they are not functioning properly, it can lead to a number of health problems. We take a closer look at the causes, symptoms and treatment of kidney failure in cats.
Table of contents
Acute renal failure in a cat
Acute renal failure in cats occurs suddenly and can be caused by a number of reasons – including: poisoning, infections or dehydration. The symptoms of acute renal failure can come on suddenly and are severe. Cats with acute renal failure may show signs of the following symptoms:
- Weakness and fatigue: The cat may seem less active and more withdrawn than normal.
- Decreased appetite: The cat eats less or not at all.
- Acute abdominal pain: Your cat may experience abdominal pain – which may cause it to appear restless or show signs of discomfort.
- Vomit og diarrhea: The cat may vomit or have loose and watery faeces.
- Neurological symptoms: In severe cases, the cat may experience convulsions, disorientation or lose consciousness.
- Increased thirst and frequent urination: In the early stages of kidney failure can the cat drinks and urinates more than normal.
- Decreased urine output: In the later stages of kidney failure, your cat may produce less and less urine – or even stop producing urine altogether. The urine may also be cloudy or have blood in it.
Causes of acute kidney failure in cats
There are various substances and plants that can be toxic to cats and lead to acute kidney failure – including lily plants, antifreeze (ethylene glycol) and various human medications that are dangerous to your cat's kidneys. In addition, acute kidney failure can also be caused by kidney infections, kidney tumors, and inflammation of the kidneys. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to your cat's behavior and seek immediate veterinary attention if you see signs of these symptoms.
Chronic renal failure
Chronic kidney failure, unlike acute kidney failure, develops gradually over time and is often related to the cat's age. The symptoms may be similar to acute kidney failure, but may be more difficult to notice as the cat gradually gets sicker. It often starts with the cat becoming weaker and less active, eating less and drinking more water than normal. It is also common to see emaciation (i.e. weight loss) and reduced coat quality.
Causes of chronic kidney failure in cats
If the kidneys' ability to filter urine and get rid of waste products from the blood is significantly reduced, the cat can develop chronic renal failure. This is due to permanent damage to the kidneys - where kidney tissue is replaced by scar tissue and the kidneys' function deteriorates. It can be difficult to determine a specific cause of chronic renal failure, but there are various factors that make some cats more susceptible than others - for example, if they have previously had acute renal failure or other kidney damage or are genetically predisposed to hereditary kidney diseases. Age also plays a significant role - and older cats are at greater risk of developing kidney problems.
Treatment of renal failure in cats
Treatment for kidney failure in cats depends on the severity and whether the condition is acute or chronic. Your veterinarian will perform the necessary tests to make a correct diagnosis and develop a treatment plan. However, it is important to take your cat to the nearest veterinary clinic as soon as possible if they show symptoms of kidney failure. Prompt treatment is important for the best possible prognosis.
Are you in Larvik and the surrounding area? In our veterinary clinic, we always prioritize urgent cases. If you need veterinary help outside of our opening hours, you should contact a clinic with a 24-hour telephone operator.
Prevention and recovery
After acute kidney failure, the risk of your cat developing chronic kidney damage is greater. Therefore, it is important to take preventive measures. Proper nutrition and lifestyle changes can help improve kidney function and slow the development of chronic kidney failure in the early stages. A diet with a low phosphorus content and high protein content is recommended. In our online store you can shop veterinary approved cat food which contributes to a healthy and happy cat. It is also a good idea to make sure that the cat gets plenty of water and has fresh water available at all times. For some cats, a the drinking fountain make it easier to maintain water intake.
Summary
Kidney failure in cats is a serious condition and is divided into two categories: acute and chronic. Acute kidney failure occurs suddenly and can be caused by causes such as poisoning, infections or dehydration. Chronic kidney failure, on the other hand, develops gradually and is often related to the cat's age. Symptoms of kidney failure in cats include fatigue, loss of appetite, increased thirst, vomiting, diarrhea, frequent or no urination and weight loss. If you suspect your cat has kidney failure, you should take it to the vet immediately.
