Kidney failure in cats is a more common disease than we might initially think, since it is estimated that one in three who are over 10 years old suffer from it. And it is that, as they age, their body deteriorates, until it reaches a point where their kidneys will need extra help to be able to work normally.
Therefore, we are going to tell you what are the symptoms of kidney disease in cats So that, in this way, you know when to take them to the vet.
What is kidney failure?
It is a disease that occurs when the kidneys stop working normally. The cause is usually advanced age and what it implies (deterioration of the body due to aging), but there are also other reasons, such as kidney tumors, bacterial infections in the kidneys, polycystic kidneys, or even that the kidneys have had defects during the growth.
What is the function of the kidneys?
We do not usually give them much importance, but the kidneys are one of the most important organs, but the most important (after the heart and lungs). They are responsible for removing toxins from the blood, regulating the acid content of the bloodstream, and controlling blood pressure. In addition, they produce erythropoietin, which is a hormone that stimulates the production of red blood cells.
What are the symptoms of kidney failure?
When cats have kidney failure, the symptoms we will see will be the following:
- Drink much more water than normal
- Urinate more often
- Loss of appetite and weight
- Dehydration
- Lethargy
- Depression
- Vomiting
- Mouth ulcers
- Halitosis (bad breath)
- Loss of interest in grooming
How is it treated?
If our furry dogs have any of the symptoms described, they should be taken to the vet. Once there, they will do a physical exam and a blood and urine test to make the most accurate diagnosis. They will then give them medicine to ease any discomfort and pain they may be experiencing, and they will recommend us to give them a special diet, low in protein, phosphorus and salt.
I hope it has been useful to you 🙂.