Ask the Vet | 3 Treatment Options for Feline Kidney Disease

Kidneys have a vital role in the life of cats. More frequent in older cats, feline kidney disease may affect younger cats with diet based mainly on dry foods. Cat kidney disease may also be a genetic condition.
Feline renal disease cannot be treated but can be managed to delay kidney failure.

1. Injecting Fluids
To make the task of the kidneys easier, fluids may be injected under the skin of a cat that is suffering from feline kidney disease. These are also known as subcutaneous injections. This procedure must be performed every day. For better results, the injections may be associated with drug treatment.
In less severe cases, the injection may be performed at home. The injection of fluids can postpone renal failure, provided it is administrated during the entire life of your pet. If your cat has a chronic renal failure, it will need to get treatment within a hospital, where it can be kept under supervision.

2. Drugs
Drugs are an alternative to the injection of fluids as a solution to manage feline kidney disease. Phosphate binders can help in preventing kidney failure and extend the life of the sick cat. However, kidney medication must be supported by a proper diet. Dysfunctional kidneys in cats can lead to anemia, nausea, high blood pressure and a build-up of toxins in the blood. Additional drugs will be needed to treat or manage these conditions.

3. Diet
Changes in the diet are not sufficient to manage feline kidney disease, but associated with medication can give good results. The cat’s diet should be poor in protein, sodium and phosphorous compounds.
The cat’s diet should also contain a lot of wet foods to keep your pet hydrated. The dry foods can worsen your pet’s condition, as these reduce the absorption of liquids. Keep a bowl with fresh water for your cat at all times.
You will be able to find cat food specially made for felines with kidney disease. These foods need a prescription.
Feline kidney disease has no cure and is a fatal condition. Fluid injections, drugs and a proper diet are a few options to help your cat cope with the disease.
Diagnosing your cat in time is important, so pay attention to the kidney disease symptoms. Symptoms of kidney disease include permanent thirst, frequent urination, weight loss and vomiting. An early detection of renal dysfunction can significantly extend your pet’s life and avoid renal failure for as long as possible. by Dr Ruan Du Toit Bester

Hope this helps
Till next week
Dr Ruan

Ask the Vet: Royal Veterinary Centre
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