Cat kidneys are responsible for removing toxins from a feline’s body. When the kidneys are not functioning properly the toxins will build up and cause health problems. No one knows what causes kidney problems in cats but it is the number one cause of death in older cats.
It is thought by many that kidney problems are caused by lack of moisture in the commercial cat foods. There is certain kidney disease cat food on the market that is lower in phosphorus. In order to keep your cat’s kidneys in good working order feed a wet diet that is low in phosphorus and protein and higher in potassium and Vitamin B.
Kidneys do a very good job of picking up the slack, so when you start to notice a problem there could already be damage done. Make sure to get into the vet the first chance you get. The vet will do blood work and check urine to confirm the diagnosis. The vet will be looking at your cat’s BUN (blood urea nitrogen) levels. When the kidneys are not functioning properly, BUN levels will build up in the system.
Should you be facing a kidney stone or kidney failure, there are things that you can do to help make your cat comfortable. All routes that you take with your pet’s health should be discussed with your vet first. If you haven’t already, switch to a wet, high quality, pet food. Keep fresh clean water handy in various types of dishes or fountains to encourage your cat to drink. Talk to your vet and local pet store about supplements available to you.
Seeing your pet sick is often very scary. Remember that you are not alone. Even with a diagnosis of something wrong with the kidneys, a cat can live a good rest of his life with your help.
Additional Kidney Information on Floppycats.com:
- Kidney Stone
- Cat Kidney Failure
- Cat Enema
- Cat Not Drinking Water
- Cat Drinking Too Much Water
- Cat Food
- Kidney Disease Cat Food
- Administering Fluids
- Instructions for Giving Fluids
- Anemia in Cats