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