Why Kidney Disease is a Killer in Cats…But Doesn't Have to Be
Most people recognize cancer as the silent killer of cats, but did you also know kidney disease can take your cat's life unexpectedly? In fact, according to the Morris Animal Foundation, chronic kidney disease (CKD) is the number one killer of cats in the U.S. To better prepare and protect your cat from this horrible affliction, read on and learn a bit more about how kidney disease affects cats.
1. Kidneys are Vital
According to the Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine, your cat's kidneys "act as a complex filter that removes from blood wastes that are generated from break down of food, old cells, toxins or poisons and many drugs that are given for treatment of other diseases." Your cat's two kidneys also help regulate blood pressure and calcium and vitamin D metabolism, as well as produce a substance that helps with the creation of new red blood cells. Due to the various functions of the kidneys, a cat with kidney disease may display a multitude of signs. However, these signs may not become apparent as quickly as you'd imagine.
Tasty Tips
2. Visible Kidney Disease Signs May Take Time
Kidneys are made up of microscopic nephrons. As your cat ages or if the kidneys become damaged, some nephrons begin to die and other reserve (or "resting") nephrons take over. Once there are no extra nephrons remaining, your cat may begin to display signs of kidney damage such as loss of appetite, weight loss, increased thirst, and anemia. However, this often only occurs once 75% of kidney function (2/3 of nephrons) has been lost. This is why it is so important that you bring your cat to your veterinarian at least once a year and remain vigilant for unusual signs in your cat's behavior. It may help prevent your cat from developing kidney disease in the first place.
For the complete slideshow on 4 Must-Know Facts About Kidney Disease in Cats, visit petMD.
Related products
Adult 7+ Tender Chicken Dinner Cat Food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Adult Chicken & Spinach Casserole Cat Food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Adult Hairball Control Savory Chicken Entrée Cat Food
Natural fiber comfortably reduces hairballs
Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Grain Free Salmon & Yellow Peas Recipe cat food
Grain free, easy-to-digest food that is gentle on the stomach. Nourishes skin & promotes lustrous fur.
Related articles
Cat Training: How to Train Your Cat the Easy Way
Discover how to train your cat, starting with very basic first steps that both reward good behavior and discourage the bad.
How to Litter Train a Kitten
Learn how to litter train a kitten with this guide to potty training, including when to start litter training kittens and troubleshooting tips.
Things to Consider When Adopting a Cat from an Animal Shelter
When you adopt a cat, you don't just gain a best friend; you also save her life. Here's why getting a cat from a local animal shelter makes so much sense.
Fun Games for Exercising Your Cat | Hill's Pet
Discover which cat toys games your feline friend might like, and how they are great sources of exercise. Explore our library of articles to learn more.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.