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The
kidneys present in your cat do a number of vital tasks. The list
includes blood pressure management and the manufacture of hormones.
The organs also stimulate the bone marrow so that an increased number
of Red Blood Cells (RBC) get produced. Kidneys also remove waste from
the blood. The organs will start to fail as the cat ages. If left
untreated, the disease which results from failing kidneys will lead
to multiplle health problems. There is no cure if it is a chronic
disease. However, with better care, and early diagnosis, it is
possible to better the quality of life and also your cat's mortality.
Cats of
all ages are susceptible
It is not
only older cats which are susceptible to kidney failure. Kidney
diseases can be present in kittens too. The list of causes behind
kidney problems includes trauma, infection, and toxins. Kidney
failure in cats is of two types, with each type having a different
cause, outlook, and treatment.
Acute
renal failure is quite common in cats. It occurs suddenly and
progresses over a matter of a few days. This happens to cats of any
age. The most common reason for acute renal failure is the presence
of poison. Your cat's kidneys could be harmed due to antifreeze,
cleaning fluids, and pesticides. Some human medicines are also
harmful to cats. Do be careful so that your curious cat could not get
to lick or taste these things.
Trauma is
a common cause of kidney problems in cats. This is especially true if
it involves a burst bladder or a broken pelvis. Your cat could also
contract kidney disease if it drinks too less water or undergoes
rapid dehydration. Another reason could be the shock from losing
quickly vast quantities of blood. Any number of causes, starting from
its body being overheated in blazingly hot weather, a considerable
uptick in activity. Diarrhea, and vomiting all result in significant
fluid dips.
Infections
and failures
Kidney
infections could also lead to disease. There could be blockages which
change blood flow into the kidney and the exit urine flow resulting
in acute pain and infection following soon after. There could also be
heart pressure accompanied by low blood pressure. This reduces the
flow of blood to the kidneys.
Acute
renal failures, if diagnosed in time, could frequently be reversed.
Chronic kidney problems, however, could be much harder to treat. A
significant proportion of senior and middle-aged cats suffer from
this condition. Kidney problems become worse over months and even
years. You must pay particular attention to your feline's health if
it is seven years old or more. The signs of failing kidneys in your
cat include frequent urination and drinking substantial quantities of
water. Other symptoms include decreased appetite and weight loss. To provide optimal nutrition vets often prescribe specialized food products for kidney support like the Royal Canin Renal Support Feline cat food.
