Kidney Failure in Cats
In cats, the kidneys are among the most commonly affected organs. Read more about kidney failure in senior cats before visiting your veterinarian.
In the past, cats were desert animals, and their kidneys evolved to conserve water in the body. Poor dental health and arthritis in wild cats often caused death much earlier than kidney wear and tear.
With scientific advances and improvements in quality of life, home care, and nutrition, our domestic cats now live longer. As a result, the kidneys are among the first organs to become exhausted.
One of the earliest symptoms of kidney failure is excessive thirst. If you notice your cat drinking from unusual places or drinking more than normal, seek veterinary care immediately.
Your veterinarian will likely examine your cat’s blood and also require a fresh urine sample (ideally collected within two hours).
Sometimes it is difficult to recognize increased drinking, especially in multi-cat households or for outdoor cats. In such cases, you may not notice the excessive thirst. Therefore, watch for other signs such as lethargy, loss of appetite, weight loss, or vomiting.
Failing kidneys can be treated with special medications that slow further damage to kidney cells and keep remaining cells functional. Your cat should also be placed on a special low-protein diet to reduce strain on the kidneys.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional consultation or veterinary examination. If you have any doubts about your pet’s health, contact your veterinarian immediately.
This article was prepared by VETHOPE Veterinary Clinic -> www.vethope.cz
Vethope s.r.o.
Rozvodova 350/16, Prague 4
Opening Hours:
Mon–Fri: 8:00 – 20:00
Sat: 9:00 – 14:00
Sun: 14:00 – 19:00
📞 Tel.: 212 246 809
📧 info@vethope.cz
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