What Are the Top Warning Signs of Kidney Disease in Cats?
Kidney disease is a serious condition that affects many cats, particularly as they age. While it can sometimes develop suddenly, it often progresses slowly over time, making early detection critical. Cats are masters at hiding illness, so understanding the warning signs of kidney disease is key to catching it early and improving outcomes. In this blog, we’ll explore what feline kidney disease is, highlight the key symptoms to look out for and discuss the steps to take if you notice these signs in your cat.
What is Feline Kidney Disease?
Feline kidney disease can manifest in two primary forms:
1. Acute Kidney Disease (AKD)
This occurs when the kidneys experience a rapid decline in function due to factors like toxin ingestion, infections, severe dehydration, trauma, or certain medications.
2. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Common causes include age-related degeneration, genetic predisposition, and long-term exposure to certain environmental toxins. Since CKD progresses slowly, early symptoms are subtle and often missed, leading to a late diagnosis. Management aims to slow progression and maintain the cat’s quality of life, as CKD cannot be cured.
Symptoms of Feline Kidney Disease
Both types of kidney disease affect kidney functions such as filtering toxins, balancing electrolytes, and regulating fluid levels. Regardless of the type, kidney disease can lead to similar symptoms:
1. Increased Thirst and Urination
One of the earliest and most noticeable symptoms of kidney disease is increased thirst and urination. As the kidneys lose their ability to concentrate urine and retain water, a cat will need to drink more to stay hydrated. You may notice your cat drinking water more frequently or spending more time in their water bowl. Similarly, they might visit the litter box more often or produce larger clumps of urine.
2. Reduced Appetite and Weight Loss
Cats with kidney disease often lose interest in food, which can lead to gradual weight loss over time. This can be due to the nausea caused by toxin buildup or changes in taste preferences, which are common with kidney issues. Weight loss might start slowly, but it can become noticeable as the disease progresses.
3. Lethargy and Decreased Activity Levels
Kidney disease can cause general fatigue and lethargy in cats. Your once-active cat may become less interested in play, spend more time sleeping, or appear generally less energetic. This symptom can be tricky to detect in older cats, who may naturally slow down with age, but any sudden or marked decrease in energy is worth paying attention to.
4. Vomiting and Nausea
As the kidneys fail to filter out waste effectively, toxins can build up in the bloodstream, leading to nausea and, sometimes, vomiting. This is more common in the later stages of the disease but can appear earlier in some cases. You may notice your cat gagging, vomiting occasionally, or avoiding food because of nausea.
5. Bad Breath and Oral Ulcers
One lesser-known but telling symptom of kidney disease is bad breath, often described as having an ammonia or “urine-like” odour. In more advanced cases, cats may also develop ulcers or sores in their mouth, particularly along the gums or tongue. These symptoms are due to the buildup of waste products in the body and can make eating and drinking even more difficult for the cat.
6. Poor Coat Condition
Cats with kidney disease may experience a decline in coat quality, resulting in a dull, unkempt appearance. The fur may look greasy, clumped, or lack the typical gloss and softness. This change can happen as the cat’s energy for grooming decreases, and the body’s overall health is compromised by the kidney’s inability to filter waste.
7. Muscle Wasting and Weakness
In advanced kidney disease, cats can lose muscle mass, leading to a “bony” or thin appearance, particularly noticeable around the spine and hips. This loss of muscle can make your cat appear frail and may lead to visible difficulty walking or jumping. Weakness, wobbly movement, and muscle trembling can also occur as the disease advances.
8. Changes in Litter Box Habits or Urine Odour
As kidney function declines, the odour of your cat’s urine may change, often becoming stronger or more noticeable. You may also observe changes in your cat’s litter box habits, such as using the box less or missing it entirely. These changes can happen for many reasons but, combined with other symptoms, may be indicative of kidney issues.
Early Detection Tips for Both Acute and Chronic Kidney Disease
Routine veterinary check-ups with blood and urine tests can detect kidney disease before symptoms appear. AKD is usually caught through emergency diagnostics, while CKD is often identified through routine screenings in senior cats.
Next Steps If You Notice Symptoms
If your cat shows signs of kidney disease, take the following steps:
- Schedule a Vet Visit: Contact your veterinarian promptly for a thorough check-up and discuss your cat’s symptoms.
- Diagnostic Testing: Your vet may perform blood tests, urinalysis, or imaging to confirm kidney disease and determine its severity.
- Follow Treatment Plans: Treatment may include a prescription renal diet, medications, or fluid therapy to manage symptoms and support kidney function.
- Provide Home Care: Ensure access to fresh water, offer palatable food, and create a stress-free environment for rest.
- Monitor Progress: Watch for changes in symptoms and report them to your vet to adjust the treatment plan as needed.
Acting quickly and following your vet’s guidance can improve your cat’s quality of life.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the symptoms of feline kidney disease can help to catch it early and support your cat’s health. Remember, early detection and regular veterinary check-ups are your best tools for managing this condition and improving your cat’s quality of life. If you notice any changes in your cat’s habits, behaviour, or appearance, consult your veterinarian promptly for advice and possible testing. By staying proactive, you can help your feline friend enjoy a comfortable, happy life for as long as possible.