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The first signs that a cat has kidney disease are usually
an increased thirst, weight loss and lethargy, though sometimes
it can first show with a problem such as sudden-onset blindness
due to haemorrhage into the eyes from high blood pressure.
Unfortunately, the damage to the kidneys is permanent at
this stage. Usually we do not even know what originally
caused the damage in the first place – we are just
left with the end stage of a disease which caused permanent
scarring to the kidneys.
Whilst kidney disease of this nature cannot be cured,
much can be done to slow down it’s progression. Special
diets can help to reduce the build up of wastes and unwanted
electrolytes, fluids can be given to help restore water
balance, urinary infections can be treated with antibiotics
and high blood pressure can be easily controlled with modern
drugs.
Many cats can live with kidney disease for a long time
with a little help from us. It does not have to be the instant
death sentence that many people assume it will be. Early
diagnosis is crucial, so regular health and weight checks,
and careful monitoring of water intake are all essential
in older animals.
My own family cat “Galore” has recently been
diagnosed with kidney disease. Despite her results indicating
she was in the advanced stages of the disease, she has responded
superbly to treatment, and is currently living a good quality
of life, which we hope will continue for some time to come!
Geraldine
Young BVSc CertSAM MRCVS.
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