Feline Kidney Disease

Medical Information for Pet Owners
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Feline Chronic Kidney Disease: Feline Kidney Disease, according to the Morris Animal Foundation's health survey, is the second leading cause of feline death, following only after feline leukemia virus. Consequently, it is important to recognize and diagnose kidney disease as soon as possible to slow the progression of the disease.
What is chronic kidney disease?	A cat's kidneys are responsible for filtering the cat's blood, as well as excreting wastes and excess water. Without this filtering, the cat's system can be overloaded with toxins, which can lead to death. Consequently, it is very important to be aware of the symptoms of this disease. Although there is no cure, early diagnosis can help slow the progression of the disease.
What causes chronic kidney disease?	Although it is not always possible to determine the cause of chronic kidney disease, the following include some of the possible causes: congenital disorders: This includes a feline being born with one kidney or an impaired kidney. kidney infection: A kidney infection can result from an untreated urethra blockage which causes urine containing bacteria to back up into the kidneys. decreased blood supply to renal arteries: This can be caused by various factors such as diabetes, renal blockages, tumors, or arterial collapse. toxic chemicals: Chemicals such as antifreeze can do irreversible damage to your cat's kidneys. Be sure to keep your cat away from toxic chemicals. glomerulonephritis: This is an inflammatory disease that damages the blood vessels in the kidneys through which blood is filtered. interstitial nephritis: This occurs when tissue in the kidney is destroyed by a disease process that causes scarring of the kidneys and/or a reduction in size. feline leukemia virus infection, also known as FeLV feline infectious peritonitis, also known as FIP: FIP is caused by a virus that enters the body (e.g. through contact with an infected cat) and then binds with antibodies to form an immune complex that damages the walls of small veins so that fluid leaks out into the body cavities. high blood pressure tumors in the kidney (rare but can happen)
What are the symptoms of chronic kidney disease?	The following can be symptoms of kidney disease. If you suspect your pet may have this problem, seek treatment as soon as possible from your veterinarian. decreased appetite and/or weight loss increased thirst and/or urination lethargy vomiting bad breath diabetes high blood pressure joint pain
How can you help minimize the chances of kidney disease?	The following measure can at least help minimize the risk of kidney disease, although they will not remove the risk entirely, since some of the factors are genetic and/or disease related. Feed a diet that is lower in protein, phosphorous, and salt and higher in carbohydrates and fat. This is because carbohydreates and fat are excreted via non-kidney routes. Give your cat plenty of clean fresh water each day. Notice your cat's normal behavior patterns, so you are more likely to recognize things like urethra blockages and infections which can damage the kidneys. Keep toxic substances away from your cat (e.g. antifreeze) Make sure your cat has his yearly checkups and is current on vaccinations. A thorough checkup is especially important for older cats (greater than 8 or 9 years old).
What do you do if you suspect your cat has kidney problems?	Take your cat to a veterinarian immediately.
How is kidney disease diagnosed?	If kidney problem are suspected (e.g. symptoms listed above), the veterinarian may do one or a combination of the following: Take blood or urine samples. If BUN (blood levels of urea nitrogen) and creatine levels are high, the kidneys aren't filtering properly. A complete urinalysis can indicate the extent of kidney damage and whether a kidney infection is present. X-rays and/or ultrasound can also indicate kidney abnormalities and even kidney stones. A biopsy may also be useful in diagnosing the exact type of kidney disease.
What is the treatment for chronic kidney disease?	The treatment for chronic kidney disease can vary, depending on the type of kidney disease and the extent of the damage to the kidneys. Since often there is no cure, treatment centers on controlling the progression of the disease. Consequently, the earlier it is diagnosed, the better chance that treatment can improve your cat's condition and extend its life. Fluid therapy may be used to restore the electrolyte and fluid balance in the patient. A diet low in phosphorous and protein may be recommended so that your cat's kidneys have less to filter. A kidney transplant may be a viable option in certain cases of kidney failure, as this operation is now being performed in more and more veterinary institutions throughout the US.