A Look At Kidney Disease In Felines

Although it can affect younger cats, feline kidney disease is normally a problem with older cats

. The chronic form progresses over time, while the acute form occurs suddenly. Since the kidneys are responsible for eliminating toxins from the body, damage to them is very serious.

Causes

There are many different things that can cause kidney disease in cats. Kidney function naturally decreases with age. Lack of potassium in the diet is another risk factor.

There are also different types of drugs that can lead to feline kidney disease. They include blood pressure medication, anti-parasitic drugs, anesthetics, and antibiotics. The condition can also be caused by chemicals like antifreeze and pesticides.

Symptoms

Your cat's kidneys have a large reserve capacity. Cats likely won't show symptoms until up to 75% of the organ has been damaged. Common signs include increased urination and drinking. Lack of urine concentration is another common sign.

As kidney function deteriorates and the disease progresses, toxins start to build up in the body. Oral ulcers, depression, vomiting, and loss of appetite are some of the common signs. You may also notice that your cat's breath has a foul odor. Seizures may also develop in the later stages of the disease.

Diagnosis

Cats with various other diseases will exhibit some of the same signs as kidney disease in felines. Hyperthyroidism and diabetes are two of these conditions. Your vet will need to perform urine and blood tests in order to diagnose kidney disease.

A urinalysis will show the inability to concentrate urine. It's also common for the kidneys to become shrunken or irregular, which an x-ray will be able to detect. The veterinarian may also perform an ultrasound or palpate the kidneys.

Treatment

As the kidneys become damaged, uremic toxins will buildup instead of being expelled from the body. Therefore, your cat will need a special diet and plenty of fluids. Cats are normally given intravenous fluids.

Any medications that are responsible for causing kidney disease will need to be discontinued. A low protein diet is needed for cats with this disease. It's common for cats with this disease to develop anemia which may require a blood transfusion.

by: D Swain

POST COMMENT

What Type Of Portable Toilet Is Good For Outdoor Events Tips To Get Through With Spring Cleaning Choosing A Drug Rehab Center Avoiding Mistakes During An Alcohol Rehab Why Addicts Fear Drug Rehab Centers Keep Your Garden Flourishing Into The Coldest Months Find A Property In North Cyprus Through Estate Agent A Guide On How To Open Mpg Files On A Mac Choosing An International Freight Forwarder What Is Osteopathy? Desert Landscaping Los Buenos Consejos Pueden Marcar La Diferencia Entre El Exito O Fracaso La Suerte Llega Despues De Los Sacrificios