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Kidney Failure in Cats

Recognizing the Symptoms of Kidney Failure in Cats


Your cat’s kidneys are a hardworking organ that is responsible for filtering toxins from the blood and excreting them from their body by way of urine. The kidneys also help to regulate blood levels of essential electrolytes, including calcium, potassium, sodium, and phosphorus. They also produce a hormone known as erythropoietin, which helps to control red blood cell production and the production of renin, which is an enzyme essential for the regulation of blood pressure and circulation. When the kidneys begin to fail, it can lead to extreme, life-threatening health problems. As a cat parent, it is extremely important to recognize the symptoms of cat kidney failure and seek help from an emergency pet hospital in Knoxville, TN as soon as you become aware of your cat’s potential kidney problems.

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Kidney Failure

When the kidneys fail to perform their function, it is known as kidney failure, which can occur suddenly as the result of a trauma or poisoning or it can develop slowly as the result of chronic disease. In either situation, kidney failure must be treated immediately in order to save your cat’s life. Studies have shown that about 30% of cats develop kidney disease at some time during their lifetime and unfortunately many of these cases progress to kidney failure. When the kidneys are not functioning properly it may be life-threatening for the cat.

Symptoms of Kidney Failure in Cats

The symptoms of kidney failure in cats may begin suddenly, or they can progress slowly. Also, keep in mind that symptoms may change or worsen as the disease progresses, so it’s critical that you have your cat examined at the emergency pet hospital in Knoxville TN at the first sign of possible kidney problems. Symptoms of kidney disease or kidney failure may include:

  • Loss of appetite
  • Cloudy or bloody urine
  • Increase in urine output
  • Increased thirst
  • Vomiting
  • Breath has an ammonia odor
  • Weight loss
  • Fatigue
  • Lethargy
  • Dry coat

If the cat kidney failure is acute and caused by trauma or poisoning, they will generally recovery once the issue has been resolved. Treatment for acute kidney failure may include fluid therapy, medications, blood transfusions and/or surgery. If their kidneys do not have a positive response after treating the primary issue, more severe courses of treatment, such as dialysis may be recommended. It is extremely important to recognize the symptoms of dehydration in your cat, which can quickly result in kidney failure. If you need more information about dehydration in cats, contact the emergency pet hospital for detailed information about the symptoms.

If you suspect your cat may be experiencing cat kidney failure, it is essential that you visit the Bluegrass Animal Hospital in Knoxville, TN immediately. You can call us at (865) 694-8387.

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