Symptoms Of Kidney Disease In Cats: A Professional Guide

Kidney disease is a common condition in older cats that can lead to serious health problems if left untreated. The kidneys play a vital role in filtering waste products from the blood and regulating fluids and electrolytes in the body. When the kidneys are damaged, they may not function properly, which can result in a range of symptoms and complications.

Understanding the symptoms of kidney disease in cats is important for early detection and treatment of the condition. Symptoms can vary depending on the degree of kidney damage and the stage of the disease. Early signs may be subtle and easily overlooked, while more advanced symptoms can be severe and life-threatening. By recognizing the signs of kidney disease, cat owners can take steps to manage the condition and improve their cat's quality of life.

Understanding Chronic Kidney Disease in Cats

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a common condition in cats, particularly in older cats. The kidneys play a vital role in filtering waste products from the blood, regulating electrolyte balance, and producing hormones that regulate blood pressure and red blood cell production. When the kidneys are damaged or not functioning properly, waste products can build up in the blood, leading to a range of symptoms and complications.

CKD is different from acute kidney disease, which is a sudden onset of kidney failure due to an underlying cause such as poisoning or trauma. Acute kidney disease tends to be more severe and can lead to death if not treated quickly.

Additionally, CKD is a progressive condition where the kidneys gradually lose function over time. This can also progress to chronic kidney failure in cats. It is the most common type of kidney disease in cats, especially in older cats. Approximately 30% of all cats over the age of 15 have chronic kidney disease.

It's important to understand the symptoms of kidney disease in cats for early detection and treatment. Symptoms can vary depending on the extent of kidney damage and the stage of the disease. Early signs may be subtle and easily missed, while more advanced symptoms can be severe and life-threatening. By recognizing the signs of kidney disease, cat owners can manage the condition and significantly improve their cat's quality of life.

Causes of Kidney Disease

There are several causes of kidney disease in cats, including infections, toxins, antifreeze, cancer, polycystic kidney disease, feline infectious peritonitis, lymphoma, amyloidosis, and inherited conditions.

1. Idiopathic nephritis (inflammation of the kidneys) is the most common cause of CKD in cats. The cause of this condition is unknown.
2. Infections can cause inflammation and damage to the kidneys, leading to kidney disease. Bacterial, viral, and fungal infections can all be culprits.
3. Toxins such as certain medications, insecticides, and household chemicals can also cause kidney damage. Antifreeze is especially dangerous to cats, as even a small amount can cause severe kidney damage.
4. Cancer can affect the kidneys directly or spread to them from other parts of the body. Lymphoma is a common type of cancer that can affect the kidneys in cats.
5. Polycystic kidney disease is an inherited condition that causes fluid-filled cysts to form in the kidneys, eventually leading to kidney failure.
6. Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is a viral disease that can cause inflammation and damage to the kidneys, among other organs.
7. Amyloidosis is an uncommon condition where abnormal proteins build up in the kidneys, leading to kidney damage.
8. Inherited conditions such as renal dysplasia and polycystic kidney disease can also cause kidney disease in cats.

Early Signs and Symptoms of Kidney Disease

Early detection of kidney disease in cats is important for successful treatment, as the disease can progress rapidly if left untreated. Very early in the course, many cats will show no symptoms at all.

Here are some early signs and symptoms of kidney disease in cats to look out for:

• Increased thirst and urination: Cats with kidney disease may drink more water than usual and urinate more frequently.
• Reduced appetite: Cats with kidney disease may lose their appetite and eat less than usual.
• Weight loss: Cats with kidney disease may lose weight due to decreased appetite and altered metabolism.
• Dehydration: Cats with kidney disease may become dehydrated due to increased urination and poor fluid intake.
• Lethargy: Cats with kidney disease may become lethargic and less active than usual.

It is important to note that these symptoms may also be indicative of other health issues, so it's best to consult with your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment. Regular check-ups and blood tests can help detect kidney disease early before symptoms become severe.

🚨 What are the 3 early warning signs of kidney disease?

The 3 most common early warning signs of kidney disease in cats are increased thirst, increased urine production, and weight loss. If you notice any of these, you should see your veterinarian.

Symptoms as the Disease Progresses

As chronic kidney disease (CKD) progresses in cats, the symptoms become more severe and noticeable. Here are some of the symptoms that may develop as the disease progresses:

• Vomiting and nausea: Cats with advanced CKD may vomit frequently and feel nauseous. This is due to the buildup of toxins in the blood that the kidneys can no longer filter out.
• Severe dehydration: Signs of severe dehydration include sunken eyes and mental dullness.
• Sudden blindness: Many cats with CKD have high blood pressure and left untreated can cause sudden blindness.
• Halitosis (bad breath): As the kidneys fail, toxins accumulate in the bloodstream and can cause a foul odor in the mouth.
• Pale mucous membranes: Cats with CKD may have pale gums and other mucous membranes due to anemia, a common complication of the disease.
• Oral ulcerations: Ulcers may develop in the mouth and tongue due to the buildup of toxins and inflammation. This may also result in difficulting swallowing and gagging.
• Weight loss: As appetite decreases and nutrient absorption is impaired, cats with CKD can experience significant weight loss.
• Poor coat condition: Cats with CKD may have a dull, dry, and unkempt coat due to poor nutrition and dehydration.
• Weakness and lethargy: As the kidneys fail to filter out waste products from the blood, cats can become increasingly
• Lethargy and muscle weakness: As the disease progresses, cats may become more lethargic and weak due to anemia and loss of muscle mass.
• Constipation: Cats with CKD may have difficulty passing stool due to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
• Behavioral changes: Cats with kidney disease may become more withdrawn, hide more often, and interact less with their owners.
• Neurological symptoms like seizures: In severe cases, cats with CKD may experience seizures and other neurological symptoms due to the buildup of toxins in the brain.

It's important to note that not all cats will exhibit all of these symptoms, and some may not show any symptoms at all until the disease is in its advanced stages. Regular check-ups and bloodwork are essential for early detection and management of CKD in cats.

Consequences of Chronic Kidney Disease in Cats

1. General Impact: As CKD progresses, the kidneys lose their ability to filter waste and balance fluids, affecting multiple organs in the body.
2. Water and Electrolyte Imbalance: Declining kidney function leads to increased thirst and urination. If not managed, this can result in dehydration.
3. Waste Build-up: As kidney function worsens, waste products like urea and creatinine accumulate in the blood, leading to various health issues.
4. Phosphorus Levels: High phosphorus levels are common in CKD and can further damage the kidneys. Elevated phosphorus is linked to higher mortality rates in cats with CKD.
5. Potassium Imbalance: Low potassium levels contribute to muscle weakness, lethargy, constipation, and inappetence.
6. Acid-Base Imbalance: Late-stage CKD often results in metabolic acidosis, causing symptoms like vomiting, weight loss, and muscle wasting.
7. Hormonal Changes: CKD affects the production of hormones like erythropoietin, leading to anemia and other complications.
8. Bone Health: CKD affects the balance of minerals like calcium and phosphorus, leading to bone disorders and other complications.
9. Protein Loss: Protein loss in the urine is a common symptom of CKD in cats and is linked to a poorer prognosis as it will exacerbate the condition.
10. High Blood Pressure: CKD often leads to high blood pressure, which can further damage the kidneys and other organs.
11. Digestive Issues: CKD can cause gastrointestinal problems like vomiting, bad breath, and oral ulcers.

Diagnostic Procedures

Diagnosing kidney disease in cats requires a combination of diagnostic procedures. These procedures help to evaluate the severity of the disease, identify possible underlying causes, and determine the best course of treatment. Some of the diagnostic procedures that veterinarians may use to diagnose kidney disease in cats include:

• Blood tests: Blood tests are used to measure the levels of creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) in the cat's blood. Elevated levels of these substances can indicate kidney disease.
• Urine testing: A urine sample can be used to perform a urinalysis, which can provide information about the cat's kidney function. The urinalysis can also reveal the presence of red and white blood cells, which can indicate an infection or inflammation.
• Urine protein/creatinine ratio: This ratio helps to evaluate the amount of waste proteins that have been excreted in the urine. High levels of these proteins indicate kidney disease.
• Radiographs: Radiographs, or X-rays, can be used to evaluate the size and shape of the cat's kidneys. They can also help to identify any abnormalities, such as kidney stones or tumors.
• Ultrasound: An abdominal ultrasound can provide a more detailed view of the cat's kidneys. It can help to identify any structural abnormalities, such as cysts or tumors.

The diagnostic procedures used to diagnose kidney disease in cats are non-invasive and relatively safe. Your veterinarian will discuss the risks and benefits of each procedure with you before performing it on your cat.

Treatment and Management

Treatment and management of kidney disease in cats depends on the severity of the condition and its underlying causes. Common treatment options include therapeutic diets, medications, and fluid therapy.

Specific kidney diets are designed to manage the symptoms of chronic kidney disease and improve the quality of life of affected cats. These diets are low in protein, phosphorus, and sodium, and high in omega-3 fatty acids. They may also contain added potassium, electrolytes, and supplements to support kidney function.

Medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms such as high blood pressure and poor appetite. These medications may include ACE inhibitors, antacids, phosphate binders, and anti-nausea drugs.

Many cats with CKD have low levels of potassium and therefore supplementation is important. Low levels of potassium will contribute to weakness and lethargy.

Fluid therapy is a very important part of managing kidney disease in cats. Intravenous (IV) fluids may be administered to cats with severe dehydration or electrolyte imbalances. Subcutaneous fluids may also be given at home or at your veterinary hospital to maintain hydration and support kidney function.

Erythropoietin is a hormone that is produced by the kidneys and is responsible for stimulating the production of red blood cells. In cats with kidney disease, erythropoietin production may be reduced, leading to anemia. Treatment with synthetic erythropoietin can help to manage anemia and improve the cat's quality of life.

Overall, the goal of treatment and management for kidney disease in cats is to slow the progression of the disease, manage symptoms, and improve the cat's quality of life. Regular monitoring of blood work, blood pressure, and urine output is important to ensure that treatment is effective and to adjust treatment as necessary.

Prognosis and Quality of Life

The prognosis for cats with kidney disease depends on several factors, including the severity of the disease, the presence of underlying conditions, and the cat's response to treatment. Early diagnosis of kidney failure in cats is key. In general, cats with early-stage kidney failure or disease have a better prognosis than those with more advanced disease. However, with appropriate management, many cats with kidney disease can live for several years.

In cases of high-stage chronic renal failure, the prognosis is generally guarded. This is because the disease is progressive and irreversible, and there is currently no cure. However, if caught in the early stages and with appropriate management, cats with chronic renal failure can live for several months to several years.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a prevalent and serious condition, especially in older cats. Understanding the symptoms of kidney disease in cats is important for early detection and effective management. The symptoms in the early stages of kidney disease often include increased thirst and urination and reduced appetite. As the disease progresses, so do the symptoms and you may notice weight loss, lethargy, vomiting, poor hair coat, and mental dullness. If your cat is displaying any of these symptoms, it is important to get them checked by your veterinarian as soon as possible to determine the underlying cause and provide appropriate management. With early detection and appropriate care, cats with kidney disease can have an improved quality of life and may even live many months and sometimes years with the condition.

If you are concerned about kidney disease in your cat or have further questions, please contact your veterinarian.