Kidney Problems in Older Cats
As our cats age, it is common for them to have kidney problems especially as it is an organ that works so hard. It is estimated that by the time a kitty reaches 15 years of age, over 15% of cats develop the disease in some form.
The kidney plays a vital role in keeping your cat healthy, like maintaining their blood pressure, and helping to produce hormones for new blood cells.
The organ works very hard to filter the blood and circulate it back to the heart, it removes toxins, and produces waste in the form of urine. When the kidney breaks down, there is a build-up of toxic waste products in the bloodstream which can have severe effects on the body.
Identifying the disease or symptoms early on can help catch kidney failure before it advances. Here are just some of the signs and symptoms to look out for:
- Increased thirst
- Weight loss
- Reduced appetite
- Bad breath
- Pale gums
The symptoms above are just some of the signs, and these can also indicate other illnesses too. Always seek veterinary advice and help if you are every worried or concerned about your beloved pet.
Sadly, there is no medication that can cure the disease, however depending on how severe your cat’s symptoms are, treatment for cats with this is usually a mix of medical and dietary requirements. Also, a special tailored diet can help reduce signs of kidney failure and help slow the progression of the disease. Your vet will help provide the best advice regarding treatment, diet, and advice to meet the needs of your feline.
You know your cat better than anyone, so if you notice any changes or symptoms, always seek veterinary help as soon as possible.