Chronic renal failure, also known as kidney failure, is one of the most common conditions affecting older cats. In fact one out of every five cats over fifteen years of age suffers from it. The disease is essentially characterized by a gradual decrease in the ability of kidneys to purify the blood and remove waste products from it. The disease usually has a slow insidious course and is usually irreversible unless a specific cause for the kidney failure is identified and treated (that often include tumors, infections and polycystic disease of the kidneys). In most cases though a cause is not identified and the usual course of the ailment is a slow terminal progression. As the disease advances symptoms develop in cats that include loss of weight, energy and appetite, depression, altered thirst and urination, poor coat, elevated blood pressure and anemia. (more…)
Feline kidney disease is a common problem for older cats. However, it can affect cats of any age. There are many different reasons why your cat could develop this disease. Let’s take a look at some of the most common causes.
Toxins
Toxins are one of the leading causes of feline kidney disease. Cats will readily lick antifreeze if they come across it on the ground. It will quickly destroy your cat’s kidneys if treatment isn’t sought immediately.
Other toxins that can cause this disease include solvents, pesticides, and heavy metals. Also, medications that your cat may be taking can cause problems with the kidneys. Medications for humans such as aspirin and antibiotics are also common culprits.
Cancer
One of the next causes of feline kidney disease is cancer. Cancer rarely originates in your cat’s kidneys. In most cases, the disease has spread from another organ. Older cats are most often affected by cancer of the kidneys. However, cats of any age can develop it.
Blood Flow
Another cause of feline kidney disease is inadequate blood flow. If blood doesn’t flow properly through the kidneys, they won’t be able to remove wastes effectively. This will allow toxins to accumulate in the bloodstream. Inadequate blood flow through the kidneys can be caused by drugs, dehydration, or heart disease.
Cysts
Cysts are one of the final common causes of feline kidney disease. These cysts can occur in both kidneys and will enlarge over time. As they grow, they will begin to put pressure on kidney tissue. This will reduce the kidney’s ability to filter waste products.
As a cat owner, you want to keep your special friend as healthy as possible. To learn more about various cat illnesses such as feline pancreatitis, stop by cat-illnesses.com.
Learn how to give subcutaneous fluids to your cat. Developed by Partners in Animal Health at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine with a gift from Purina Veterinary Diets. Authors: Dr. Richard Goldstein and Dr. Joe Wakshlag.
The disease is essentially characterized by a gradual decrease in the ability of kidneys to purify the blood and remove waste products from it. The disease usually has a slow insidious course and is usually irreversible unless a specific cause for the kidney failure is identified and treated (that often include tumors, infections and polycystic disease of the kidneys). In most cases though a cause is not identified and the usual course of the ailment is a slow terminal progression. As the disease advances symptoms develop in cats that include loss of weight, energy and appetite, depression, altered thirst and urination, poor coat, elevated blood pressure and anemia. (more…)
