Chronic Kidney Disease Symptoms in Cats

If you have a cat, especially one who is aging, you’re probably doing your best to keep your furry friend healthy. There are many diseases in cats in Alexandria, VA that are common, especially among aging or older felines. One common disease that can be fatal if not treated early is kidney disease. Thankfully, if caught early, there is treatment that can help your cat live years longer. Look for these signs of kidney disease and take your cat to a vet right away if you notice any of these symptoms. However, even if your pet is not exhibiting symptoms, it’s a good idea to get regular testing for kidney disease in older cats, because the disease can progress without symptoms until two thirds of the kidney function is already gone:

• Change in urinating habits: Frequent urination as well as urinating outside the box are signs that your cat is experiencing urinary discomfort, and you should pay attention. Frequent urination is a sign that your cat’s kidneys are not able to hold water as well as they used to and she needs to relieve herself more often.
• Bacterial infections: Bladder and kidney infections can also be a sign of chronic kidney disease. Bacterial infections can develop more easily in the diluted urine produced by failing kidneys, making them more susceptible to infections. The good news is that infections will alert you to the bigger problems that need to be treated.
• Drinking a lot of water: If your cat is drinking a lot more water than usual over a long period of time (rather than on, say, a very hot day), it may be a sign that she is trying to replace fluids that she’s losing through a lot of urinating. Especially if the increase in water consumption is paired with many more frequent trips to the litter box, this could be a sign of bacterial infection or kidney disease in your cat in Alexandria, VA.
• Digestive issues: Other related digestive issues can also signify that there is a problem with your cat’s kidneys, especially when seen in combination with some of these other signs. Vomiting, diarrhea and constipation are all signs that there is a problem, and these symptoms are often present during kidney failure. You may also watch for signs of a decrease in appetite, which is usually found along with weight loss.
• Mouth issues: You can also look in your cat’s mouth for signs of kidney trouble. Ulcers, especially in the gums and tongue, as well as bad breath with an ammonia-like odor, can signify kidney disease. You may also notice her tongue has become brownish in color and her coat is dry.

As disease progresses, your cat may become sicker and present a weakness or indifference along with these other symptoms. Don’t wait until you notice all these symptoms of kidney disease in cats in Alexandria, VA. Bring your cat to Kingstowne Cat Clinic for full-service veterinary care for your pet. We administer wellness exams and surgery, and can help you with kidney disease testing and treatment.

Categorised in: Diseases in Cats

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