Cat renal & urinary problemsKidney and Urinary problems are common in cats of all types and ages.Chronic renal failure is a long term process common in older cats. As the filtering tissue in the kidneys is progressively replaced with inactive fibrous tissue, the kidneys become less able to carry out their 3 main functions: excreting or eliminating the nitrogen waste (urea) from the body maintaining the water balance – hydration – of the body maintaining the balance of body salts – electrolytes – in the body Cats with this type of kidney disease typically are thirsty, have a poor appetite and lose weight. Their blood has high levels of urea and creatinine and they produce dilute urine. They easily become dehydrated, and the levels of phosphates in the bloodstream are often high enough to make them feel ill. Vets now commonly prescribe an ACE-inhibitor (Fortekor), but we can also help these cats at home with high calorie supplements such as Nutriplus gel to keep their energy levels up, Phosphate binders such as Ipakitine to reduce the levels of phosphate in the blood and potassium supplements (eg Tumil K). Multivitamins and probiotics can help compensate for their depressed metabolism and digestion. Acute renal failure is where the kidneys suddenly shut down, normally due to problems in the blood circulation, infection, poisoning or inappropriate drug treatment. These cases are medical emergencies and need urgent veterinary attention. The outlook depends on the severity and duration of the problem. Urinary crystals and bladder stones may require surgery to remove them, but in many cases changes to the diet or supplements to change the acidity of the urine can help dissolve the crystals and resolve the problem Urinary infections in the form of bacterial cystitis (infection in the urianry bladder) or pyelonephritis (kidney infection) need medical attention as soon as possible, and in most cases will need prolonged courses of antibiotics. Many cases of cystitis in the cat (symptoms include increased frequency of urination with of without blood in the urine) are not in fact due to infection at all and are now referred to as Feline Idiopathic Cystitis. These are thought to be of emotional or psychological origin. Stress and anxiety is able to trigger biochemical changes that result in inflammation of the bladder wall, which is painful. And this is why kitty is in and out of the litter tray all day. We currently manage these with a combination of prescription drugs to reduce the inflammation and pain together with products such as Feliway to help reduce anxiety and food supplements to help rebuild the bladder wall.
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