Like Humans, cats also have kidneys and they serve the same purpose. Their functions include creating hormones and enzymes, helping in the development of red blood cells, regulating blood pressure, removing wastes from the bloodstream. Generally, a cat’s kidneys can begin to fail with age, though there can be other causes. There are cases, however. where kittens can be born with kidney diseases.
There are two types of kidney diseases in cats, acute kidney failure and chronic. In acute kidney disease, the failure happens rather suddenly. It can be brought on through a number of things, including poisons. They can be chemicals like antifreeze, cleaning fluids, and certain medication and pesticides. A single tablet of ibuprofen can cause kidney failure. They can also be toxic plants such as lilies.
Physical trauma is another cause and can include a broken pelvis or burst bladder. Overheating in hot weather, shock from significant blood loss or dehydration are other causes. In situations of fluid loss, significant rise in activity, vomiting, and diarrhea can trigger kidney failure.. Infection can cause cause kidney disease, as can blockages of blood flow into the kidneys and blockages of urine leaving them. Cats with heart issues, reducing the blood flow to the kidneys are also at risk.
There are various signs of acute kidney disease.
- The cat no longer has an appetite or is excessively thirsty
- They are suddenly nowhere near as energetic as they once were
- Seizures
- Vomiting and possibly coughing up blood
- Bad breath
- Increase or decrease in the amount of times of urination and black stools
Fortunately, if acute kidney disease is caught early on, it can be treated and may not reduce the life expectancy of the cat.
Chronic kidney disease’s causes are not totally known, though age seems to be a major factor in this. Chronic kidney disease is not curable and requires special treatment and care to keep the cat comfortable and as healthy as possible. If the owner suspects their cat has any of the symptoms of chronic kidney disease, it is important to see a veterinarian immediately. The life expectancy of a cat with chronic kidney disease can be anywhere between months to years.
Other health factors may also be responsible for this as well. They include dental disease, kidney infections and inflammation, and hyperthyroidism. Just like in humans, high blood pressure, diabetes and hypertension can become a factor. A cat who has frequent urinary tract infection may also be at risk. And just as certain ethnic groups are more vulnerable to chronic kidney disease in humans, certain cat breeds are more at risk, These breeds include the Maine Coon, Abyssinian, Persian, Siamese, Russian Blue, and Burmese,
When and how the signs of chronic disease show themselves will vary from cat to cat. And, with chronic kidney disease, it may take a few years to develop. Experts say this a contributing factor is a lifestyle of imbalance in what they eat and how much exercise they get. It is important to be able to talk to your veterinarian and be vigilant for any changes in the cat’s behavior.
Symptoms of chronic kidney disease in pets include, excessive drinking and urination and appetite loss. The cat may also loss the ability to go through the whole night without urinating. Vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration and sudden weight loss are also signs of trouble. Cats may also experience depression, weakness, weak bones or more bone fractures and irritated skin. Bruising, mouth ulcers and thinning hair are yet another sign. Sudden blindness is another major sign.
You can combat your cat’s kidney disease and keep these harrowing and painful symptoms from ruining their quality of life by taking active steps in your pet’s health, ensuring they are eating sufficient food and getting adequate hydration along with supplementation with a powerful pro- and prebiotic blend which can help ease their inflammation and support more normal kidney function. Kidney Restore For Cats and Dogs™ is one such supplement, our very own and available in our shop.
