Kidney Health

Taking Care of Older Cats

Kidney disease, or chronic renal failure, is a very common condition in older cats, often leaving owners with an ailing cat in need of very special care and a very special diet.

Though the causes of chronic renal failure are vague and difficult to understand, some of the known factors include dehydration, chronic dental disease, intestinal disorders, an acidic diet and even trauma.

Symptoms of Kidney Disease in Cats

Cats with kidney disease may show some or all of the following symptoms:

•    Increased drinking and urination
•    Urination outside the litter box
•    Decreased or even complete lack of urination
•    Blood in the urine
•    Vomiting
•    Loss of appetite, probably due to nausea
•    Weight loss
•    Pain in the lower back area
•    Sitting hunched or walking stiffly
•    Ulcers in the mouth and/or drooling
•    High blood pressure, possibly with associated retinal damage
•    Anemia

What the Veterinarian May Say About a Cat with Chronic Renal Failure

After cats with renal failure have been stabilized, they may respond to many different courses of treatment, including steroids, changes in diet and even homeopathy/herbal remedies.

A thorough dental cleaning is often advised for cats once their chronic renal failure has been stabilized. This cleaning can help stop bacteria from entering the blood stream through the gums, thus protecting the kidneys as they filter the blood.

A change in diet is also highly recommended, as lowering the ash and acidity in a cat’s diet is a good way to protect the kidneys.