The kidneys perform several essential functions that play a vital role in your cat's health. Learn more from our veterinarians about some of the causes, signs and treatments of kidney failure in cats.
Your Cat's Kidneys
When your cat's kidneys are healthy, they work to remove toxins, manage blood pressure, maintain a normal electrolyte balance, regulate hydration and calcium and produce hormones that stimulate the production of red blood cells.
If your cat is diagnosed with kidney failure - also known as renal failure - the kidneys are no longer functioning efficiently. This serious issue can have a number of causes, including infections, tumors or ingesting toxic materials.
The immediate risk of failing kidneys in cats is that they cannot clear the blood of dangerous toxins.
Types of Kidney Failure in Cats
There are two types of kidney failure in cats. Each type differs in causes, treatment options and prognosis.
Acute Renal Failure
If your cat is suffering from acute kidney failure, it means that their kidneys are suddenly unable to function properly. This type of kidney failure occurs suddenly, within days or weeks. If diagnosed in time, acute renal failure can often be reversed.
Acute renal failure can affect cats of any age and typically results from poisons, trauma, infection, organ failure, urethral blockages, dehydration and other causes. Poisons such as toxic plants, pesticides, cleaning fluids and human medications are the most common cause of acute renal failure.
Chronic Kidney Failure
Chronic kidney failure in cats is a gradual condition that typically develops over several months or even years. Autoimmune diseases, cysts in the kidneys and genetics, typically cause this type of kidney failure.
Chronic kidney failure is a progressive illness that can lead to total kidney failure, where the kidneys gradually stop working as they lose the ability to filter toxins out of the blood.
Signs of Kidney Failure in Cats
When the kidneys aren't removing waste from your cat's body properly, you may notice that your kitty is drinking more water than usual and is trying to urinate more often. Because toxins build up in the cat's body, they may feel nauseated and stop eating. In general, your cat will appear to be lethargic and despondent.
General symptoms of kidney failure in cats can include:
- Dehydration
- Excess thirst
- Weakness
- Weight loss
- Lack of appetite
- Diarrhea (may contain blood)
- Vomiting (may contain blood)
- Depression
- Bad breath
If your cat is suffering from acute kidney failure you may also notice an arched back or stiff-legged gait, symptoms that your cat's kidneys are causing them pain.
Chronic kidney failure gradually progresses over years, and the signs may not be noticeable. Sadly, by the time you do see symptoms, the disease may already be leading to total kidney failure.
While there is no cure for chronic kidney disease, your cat's longevity and quality of life can be improved with early detection.
Symptoms of End-Stage Kidney Failure in Cats
The most common symptoms of end-stage kidney failure in cats include dull sunken eyes, an inability to walk, body odor, incontinence (bladder and/or bowels), refusal to eat or drink, seizures, confusion, pacing, restlessness, withdrawing, hiding and running away.
Though more than one of these symptoms will be present, you may not see all of them in your cat. Unfortunately, there are no simple answers when it comes to kidney failure, as different symptoms may present at different times.
It's important to note that these symptoms can also be signs of other illnesses, which is why early diagnosis, disease management and communication with your vet is so important.
Diagnosing & Treating Kidney Failure in Cats
Veterinary specialists can diagnose and treat internal conditions such as kidney failure in cats. Your vet will thoroughly examine your cat, including blood and urine tests, X-rays, and possibly an ultrasound. A kidney biopsy might also be required to diagnose the condition.
If kidney disease is found, treatments could include intravenous fluids to correct dehydration, vitamin injections, supplements, medications, and possibly surgery to remove blockages. When treating kidney failure, the goal is to manage the symptoms and slow down the progression of the disease.
You can support your cat's treatment with a carefully managed diet and plenty of clean fresh water. Your vet will recommend that you gradually transition your cat to a kidney diet that is low in both phosphorus and protein and is enriched with vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids.
For cats with end-stage kidney failure, all that can be done is to provide quality palliative care. In their final days, this will mean keeping them warm and comfortable, with tasty food, fresh water, and a litter box nearby, as well as lots of loving human companionship.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.