Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) In Cats

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The most important thing to understand about kidney illness in cats is that it affects far too many of them. In fact, research suggests that one out of every three cats has kidney illness. Kidney illness can strike cats for a variety of causes, and it’s much more difficult to detect.

Most cats don’t show any signs of kidney illness until it’s quite advanced. Even when they do, the earliest signs of kidney illness in cats, such as mild weight loss, increased urination/peeing frequency, and increased water consumption, are easy to detect.

So, if you observe your cat peeing on the floor, flooding the litter box, or being constantly thirsty, it’s time to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian.

However, by the time these symptoms appear, there has usually already been significant kidney damage. Although there is no cure for kidney illness, there are many things that may be done to help, particularly if the condition is detected early.

What is Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)?

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a condition in which kidney function gradually deteriorates over time. Normally, the kidneys filter waste materials from the blood. The waste is then expelled in the urine, or discharged. Cats with CKD have renal disease, which means their kidneys aren’t working properly. As a result, waste products collect in their circulation, causing disease symptoms. CKD develops gradually and can be fatal in cats.

What Causes CKD in Cats?

It’s frequently difficult to pinpoint the cause of CKD. Damage to the nephron, the blood-filtering kidney unit, is usually irreparable and progressive. Chronic Kidney Disease can be caused by a variety of illnesses. Idiopathic kidney disease occurs when your veterinarian is unable to pinpoint a specific reason.

The following are some of the most common causes of chronic kidney disease:

Lilies and antifreeze toxins
Abnormalities in the genome
High Blood pressure
Lack of blood flow in Kidneys
Cancer
Infections
Immunologic disorders

The cause of CKD can sometimes be identified and treated, but the alterations in the kidneys are usually irreversible. It may be able to halt the progression of CKD and provide a decent quality of life for your cat by working together with your veterinarian.

Signs & Symptoms

Cats with CKD usually do not even display any symptoms until their kidneys have lost two-thirds of their ability to function. The following indicators are frequently seen at that point: