What to do about chronic kidney disease in cats

Cats with chronic kidney disease can receive subcutaneous hydration with lactate Ringer and vitamin B12. If the dehydration is severe, intravenous hydration is necessary to maintain a good hydration state. Phosphate binders can be used to reduce phosphorus levels and keep blood phosphorus below 5mg/dl. Feed your cat low-protein, low-phosphorus food, preferably prescription kidney diets. If your cat vomits, it is better to use maropitant, which inhibits central nervous system function. If your cat has anemia, you can consider using erythropoietin.

Causes of chronic kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease in cats may be related to the following factors: Long-term dietary habits, such as a acidic diet and low blood potassium, can cause chronic kidney disease; it may also be related to genetic factors (congenital kidney dysplasia), age, and living environment; some diseases may also lead to chronic kidney disease in cats, such as hypertension, dental diseases, etc.

Symptoms of chronic kidney disease

When a cat has chronic kidney disease, it may show symptoms such as rough hair, decreased appetite, depression, vomiting, increased drinking, frequent urination, weight loss, bad breath, dehydration, pale mucous membranes, oral ulcers, etc. Diagnosis can usually be confirmed by comprehensive evaluation of SDMA, creatinine, urea nitrogen levels, urine specific gravity, and the presence of active urine sediments in biochemical tests.

Points to note for chronic kidney disease

Cats with chronic kidney disease need to pay attention to their diet, and can eat prescription kidney diets and drink more water. Most cases of chronic kidney disease occur after acute kidney disease has been resolved. There are many causes of kidney failure, including poisoning, trauma, urethral obstruction, long-term kidney damage, etc. The treatment for kidney failure mainly involves large-volume fluid administration, along with diagnostic tests to find the cause of the kidney failure, symptomatic treatment, and prompt restoration of your cat's appetite.