Kidney health for cats
Kidney health for cats
What is kidney disease in cats?
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is defined as any abnormality of one or both kidneys that has been present for several months. It is a common condition, affecting about 1 of every 3 cats.1
Your cat’s kidneys play a vital role in removing metabolic wastes from the bloodstream, regulating fluid and electrolyte balance, producing or activating important hormones and helping control blood pressure. If your cat’s kidneys cannot do their job properly, CKD can eventually lead to life-threatening problems.
What causes kidney disease in cats?
The cause of CKD in cats often is unknown; however, several factors
may be involved that could increase your cat’s risk of developing
kidney disease:
Early detection of kidney disease in your cat
The signs of early-stage kidney disease are not visible. On diagnosis, CKD has already been present for some time but may be managed with the help of vet-recommended cat food for kidney disease. Signs of late-stage kidney disease tend to be similar but are far more noticeable to pet parents.
Signs
Signs
Nutrition for cats with kidney disease
If your cat has kidney disease, the nutrition formulated for them can help make an impact on their lives. Specially formulated therapeutic foods that contain decreased amounts of phosphorus and highly digestible protein, and increased omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil have been shown to support quality and length of life in cats with CKD compared to feeding a non-therapeutic food.
Your cat’s appetite may vary over time when they have CKD and offering different forms (dry, stews) and flavors of an appropriate food recommended by your veterinary healthcare team can be very helpful. The single most important thing you can do is make any changes to a new food gradually because some cats need several weeks or longer to get used to a new food.
Nutrition for cats with kidney disease
If your cat has kidney disease, the nutrition formulated for them can help make an impact on their lives. Specially formulated therapeutic foods that contain decreased amounts of phosphorus and highly digestible protein, and increased omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil have been shown to support quality and length of life in cats with CKD compared to feeding a non-therapeutic food.
Your cat’s appetite may vary over time when they have CKD and offering different forms (dry, stews) and flavors of an appropriate food recommended by your veterinary healthcare team can be very helpful. The single most important thing you can do is make any changes to a new food gradually because some cats need several weeks or longer to get used to a new food.
Related Articles
Hyperthyroidism in Cats: Warning Signs, Management & Treatment
Learn how to spot the warning signs and symptoms of hyperthyroidism in your cats. Read more to know what questions to ask your vet.
Signs of Stress in Cats and How You Can Help | Hill's Pet
Learn how to recognize the signs of stress in cats and how to help a stressed cat find relief. Learn the implications of stress on her overall health, and what you can do to help ease her.
Important Information on FLUTD & Urinary Tract Infections in Cats
If your cat if struggling to use the litter box it might be a symptom of a larger issue - urinary tract disease. Learn the signs and treatment options now.
Vaccines Your Kitten Should Have
Learn the schedule of vaccinations a vet may recommend for your kitten, as well as the diseases and conditions they can help protect her from.
References: 1Lulich JP, Osborne CA, O’Brien TD, Polzin DJ. Feline renal failure: questions, answers, questions. Compend Contin Educ Pract Vet. 1992;14(2):127–153. Brown SA. Renal dysfunction in small animals. The Merck Veterinary Manual website.