Chronic Kidney Disease in Cats

Here are some facts you should know about Chronic Kidney Disease:

• What is it and what are the important things to know?
  • It is a persistent loss of kidney function over time
  • It takes at least 75% loss of kidney function before we see signs
  • Damage to kidneys is irreversible
  • Early detection important in order to provide good quality of life
  • Similar symptoms to diabetes and hyperthyroidism
• What do the kidneys do?
  • Filter blood and make urine (excrete waste and extra fluid from the body)
• What are the symptoms I will see?
  • Lethargic (lack of energy, sleeping more, weakness)
  • Weight-loss
  • Increase in drinking & urination
  • Decrease in appetite
  • Vomiting & diarrhea
  • Bad breath/sore mouth
• What is happening internally?
  • High blood pressure
  • Increase of protein in urine
  • Increase of phosphorus in blood
  • Low red blood cell levels
  • Potassium imbalance (starts out low, then goes high)
  • Metabolic acidosis (body acid level too high; the blood pH is too low)
  • Dehydration
  • Inability to filter toxins/toxin elevation
• What causes it/what are some predispositions?
  • Cats age 7 or older are high risk
  • Diets high in phosphorus and/or protein
  • Specific breeds (Persians, Himalayans, other exotic long haired breeds)
  • Toxicity (disinfectants, antifreeze, lead paint, some human medications)
• How is it diagnosed and what are the tests that are done?
  • Blood tests
    • Blood urea nitrogen & creatinine
    • Electrolytes (sodium & potassium)
    • Red blood cell count
    • Protein level
  • Urine tests
    • Concentration of urine
    • pH & protein levels
    • Presence of red blood cells or other cells
    • Culture for bacteria
  • Is there treatment, and what does it do?
    • Regular administration of subcutaneous or intravenous fluids
    • Kidney-specific diets & medication
      • Controls blood pressure
      • Decreases presence of protein in urine
      • Decreases phosphate levels
      • Increases production of red blood cells
      • Supplements potassium & antioxidants
      • Helps the kidneys to filter toxins and regulate toxin levels

Written by Tamara Tupper, RVT