Renal failure in cats

Renal failure is the most common kidney disease in cats of all breeds and ages. In the absence of timely treatment, death occurs a few weeks after the first symptoms of the disease.

What is this disease?

There are two types of kidney failure: acute and chronic, which are especially dangerous. Chronic renal failure is a syndrome in which kidney cells gradually die off, causing organs to decrease in size and function.

This disease is incurable, but proper therapy can stop the symptoms and prolong the life of the pet for several years.

Symptoms

Acute renal failure occurs due to disruption of the organ due to infection, shock, obstruction of the lower urinary system. Here, the symptoms are visible immediately, while chronic renal failure can develop slowly and imperceptibly. Therefore, the cat must be closely monitored and notice any changes in her behavior and well-being. You should be concerned if:

• The cat first goes to the toilet more often than usual, but then urination becomes rare;

• At the same time, the pet drinks a lot of water;

• The cat may suffer from constipation, nausea or vomiting;

• Decreased body weight;

• The pet is apathetic, sleeps more;

• The quality of wool is broken.

Causes of kidney failure

The causes of kidney failure are:

• Inflammation of the kidneys (pyelonephritis), as well as stones in the urinary tract and oncological formations in the genitourinary system;

• state of shock;

• Poisoning with poisons, toxins, a large number of drugs;

• Progression of diseases such as diabetes mellitus, polycystosis, sepsis;

• Diseases of the cardiovascular system, as well as a sharp drop in pressure, for example, due to sun and heat stroke.

Treatment

In order for the kidneys to recover as much as possible, the veterinarian not only prescribes the necessary medications, but also establishes a diet that must be observed throughout the life of the cat. In case of kidney failure, special food with a low level of protein, phosphorus is prescribed; The food contains easily digestible protein. These foods are available from Royal Canin (eg Renal RF23), Pro Plan Veterinary Diets (eg NF Renal Function), Hill’s (eg Hill’s Prescription Diet k/d). The number of meals also increases. It is important that your pet always has access to clean water.

It is impossible to cure kidney failure, the kidney tissue is not capable of recovery. However, constant monitoring by a veterinarian and proper pet care can stop the progression of the disease and alleviate its symptoms.

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For a more detailed study of the problem, we recommend contacting a specialist.

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July 9 2017

Updated: July 6, 2018