What You Need to Know About Kidney Disease
Sadly, kidney failure is one of the top causes of illness and death in cats, especially older felines. Almost 1 out of 3 senior cats will suffer from this disease. But with early diagnosis and proper veterinary care you can boost the quality and length of your pets life.
Kidney disease is either acute or chronic. Acute can be caused by poisons, trauma, shock, infection, or blockages. Often if diagnosed in time acute kidney issues can be reversed. Why chronic kidney disease happens isn’t always clear; genetics, breed (like Maine Coons or Siamese), dental disease, high blood pressure, or infectious disease can damage the kidneys. Chronic kidney issues can be managed but not cured.
Know the Warning Signs
The best move you can make to prevent or get a handle on kidney problems is visiting the vet once or twice a year, feeding your cat wet food, making sure they get a lot of water, and ensuring they don’t put on extra weight. Look for these signs of kidney issues:
- Change in potty habits
- Not using the litter box
- Drinking more water than usual
- Weight loss
- Decreased appetite
- Dry coat
- Weakness
If your cat isn’t feeling well or exhibiting these symptoms, it’s time for a vet visit. The sooner your veterinarian gets involved the better the outlook for your cat.
Chronic kidney issues can be managed and the sooner, the better.
Related Reading
Why hire a local dog walking company in Washington DC and not an app or neighbor?
Pet owners may be surprised to learn that there are two types of dog walkers, hobbyists…
Can My Pet Make My Family or Me Sick?
Can My Pet Make My Family or Me Sick? The short answer is yes. However, the…
Why is my dog destroying my home?
Sooner or later most dog owners will return home and find something ruined by their beloved…
January is National Pet Eye Care Month
I Only Have Eyes For You! January is National Eye Care Month, so this is a great…
Things to Know Before You Adopt a Rescue Pet
According to the ASPCA, every year almost 8 million cats and dogs are in shelters nationwide. We hope…
7 Resolutions Your Pets Want You to Make
Uh oh, it’s that time of year again – when we set new goals and try…
Tips To Keep Your Pet’s Teeth Clean
Tips To Keep Your Pet’s Teeth Clean My 12 year old Bella recently had a dental…
Spread Holiday Cheer with Your Pet!
It’s the most wonderful time of year! Wintertime can be either a season of hunkering down…
How do cats show love?
We all know that cats are different from dogs – you know when a dog likes you (think…
All about your cat’s rough and scratchy tongue
Roughing It! If you’ve been groomed by a cat then you know their tongue is rough…
Why is my dog always barking?
Are you ready to send your dog to Barkaholics Anonymous? That title is an oxymoron, isn’t…
Nutrition Related Illnesses in Pets
Nutrition Related Illnesses in Pets Americans love their pets, so much so, that we spend more…
How to Prevent Dog Bites at Home
Let’s start here: any dog can bite. Even the most friendly and easygoing dog will bite if…