What is kidney failure in cats?

Hearing the diagnosis “kidney failure” is always frightening for owners. That is only natural, because the kidneys are the body’s key filter, and damage to them affects the workings of a cat’s entire body. It is worth knowing, however, that this diagnosis need not be a death sentence.

Modern veterinary medicine gives us powerful tools that allow a cat with diseased kidneys to live comfortably and contentedly for many years. The key to success, though, is understanding the enemy, catching the problem early and working closely with your veterinarian.

Acute versus chronic kidney failure – what is the difference?

Many owners think of kidney disease as a single condition, but in veterinary medicine we distinguish between two completely different states. They differ in their causes, their course and, above all, the chance of a full recovery.

1. Acute Kidney Failure

This comes on suddenly, often in young, healthy cats. The kidneys stop working from one day to the next. It is a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate treatment at a 24-hour clinic such as Zviropolis.

• Causes: Most often it is the result of eating poisonous plants, for example lilies, which are lethal to cats. Other causes include drinking antifreeze containing glycol, a blockage of the urethra by stones, or shock.
• Hope: If we act immediately, acute kidney failure is often reversible. The kidneys can return to full function.

2. Chronic Kidney Failure

This is a slow process that develops over years and is typical of older, senior cats. The kidneys gradually lose their filtering capacity and simply wear out.

• Causes: The main factors are ageing, congenital defects, past infections and years of poor diet.
• Prognosis: The damage cannot be reversed, because destroyed kidney tissue does not regenerate, but the process can be slowed down effectively, giving the cat years of good life.

Symptoms of kidney disease – what should worry you?

The kidneys have a large functional reserve, which means symptoms only appear once a significant part of the organ has already been damaged. That is why vigilance is so important.

The most characteristic warning sign is increased thirst combined with increased urination.

If your cat has suddenly started drinking a lot of water and visits the litter tray more often, leaving large clumps of urine behind, do not put off a visit to the vet.

Other symptoms that should set alarm bells ringing are:

• A distinctive smell from the mouth: It resembles ammonia or urea and is the result of toxins building up in the body.
• Weight loss: The cat gets thinner and its flanks often look hollow, even though it may still have an appetite at first.
• Vomiting: Often just foam or water, especially in the morning.
• A deteriorating coat: The fur becomes dull, unkempt and greasy to the touch.
• Apathy: The cat sleeps more, is irritable and avoids play.

Diagnosis – why a blood test alone is not enough

We are often asked whether a blood count is enough. Unfortunately, when it comes to the kidneys, it is not. To make an accurate diagnosis and determine how advanced the disease is, we need three key tests:

1. A blood test, i.e. biochemistry: We check the levels of urea, creatinine and phosphorus. These indicators tell us how badly the body is being poisoned by metabolic waste products.
2. A urine test: This is a crucial test. Blood parameters are often still normal while the specific gravity of the urine is already falling. This means the kidneys are losing their ability to concentrate urine, and it is one of the earliest signs of the disease.
3. A kidney ultrasound: This allows us to assess the structure of the kidneys. We check whether they are shrunken, which is typical of the chronic form, or enlarged, which may suggest inflammation. We also look for cysts or stones.

At Zviropolis we have full laboratory and diagnostic facilities, which means we can carry out these tests on site, often in a single visit.

Treatment and renal diet – how to prolong your cat’s life

Treatment of a cat with kidney disease rests on two pillars: hydration and diet. The aim is to relieve the kidneys and flush out the toxins that the diseased organ can no longer remove on its own.

• Water is life: A cat with diseased kidneys loses water at an alarming rate, which is why it urinates so much. We need to keep it hydrated, and sometimes regular subcutaneous or intravenous fluids are necessary.
• Renal diet: Specialist foods, known as renal diets, have reduced levels of protein and phosphorus. This is essential to avoid putting strain on the kidneys.
• Wet food versus dry: For kidney disease we strongly recommend wet food. It provides valuable water. If a cat eats only dry food, its kidneys have to work harder to obtain the water needed for filtration.

As supporting treatment, phosphate binders, blood-pressure-lowering drugs and kidney-protective supplements are used.

Can a cat with kidney disease be cured?

The answer depends on the type of failure. In the acute form, full kidney function can often be restored, provided we act quickly. In the chronic form we cannot repair the kidneys, but we can keep the disease under control.

A cat with chronic kidney failure that is under regular veterinary care, takes its medication and is on the right diet can live for years. The disease demands commitment from the owner, but it does not rob the cat of its joy in life. Our kidney patients still chase feather wands, purr on laps and enjoy the sunshine.

Prevention is cheaper than treatment

Many cases of kidney failure are detected too late, when the symptoms are already severe. That is why at the Zviropolis clinic we always encourage regular check-ups.

Once a year, give your cat a “service check” covering blood, urine and blood pressure, especially if your pet is already 7 or older. It is a simple step that could save its life.

Has your cat been drinking more water lately, or lost weight? Don’t wait for the symptoms to get worse. Book an appointment at Zviropolis. Our team is available around the clock to check on your friend’s kidneys.