What Are the Signs of Kidney Failure in Cats?

Chronic kidney or renal failure occurs most often in aging cats. Younger cats who exhibit signs of kidney failure may have inherited the condition, according to the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine. Chronic renal failure has no cure -- it is degenerative and fatal. Acute renal failure may occur after a cat ingests certain medications, chemicals or plants. Other ailments, such as cardiac disease, hypotension and urinary obstructions can also lead to acute renal failure.

  1. Vomiting

    • If a cat becomes dehydrated or ingests a toxic substance, such as antifreeze, acute kidney failure can occur. This damages the kidneys, making them less capable of filtering out wastes from the blood. Cats with chronic kidney problems may suffer a slow accumulation of wastes over a period of years, as their kidney function declines. The result of both circumstances leads to vomiting. In the early stages of renal failure a cat will vomit occasionally, according to the Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine's website. As the condition worsens, vomiting increases in frequency and severity.

    Weight Loss

    • Chronic renal failure often causes progressive weight loss in cats. This occurs regardless of how much food the cat eats, and the cat is unresponsive to dietary management, according to the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine.

    Water Consumption and Urination

    • Kidney problems typically lead to altered patterns of water consumption and urination. A cat may drink more water than normal. It may urinate more frequently, less frequently or not at all. The volume of the cat's urine may also increase. Blood in the urine is sometimes found in cats suffering from renal failure.

    Miscellaneous Signs

    • The signs of kidney failure in cats can vary widely, according to Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine website. Some cats may develop ulcers in their mouths, while others become anemic. The build up of toxins in the blood stream leads to bad breath. The cat's gums can become pale and its limbs and abdomen may become swollen. Dehydration occurs. Some cats become lethargic. Diarrhea and poor coat quality is also common.