Chronic Kidney Disease in Cats

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 is important in order to provide a good quality of life
• Symptoms are similar 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 at 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