Signs of Feline Kidney Disease

Kidney disease is a common and often serious condition that affects many cats. According to the Doctors Foster and Smith website, kidney disease results from a variety of conditions, including trauma, age, cancer, autoimmune diseases and inflammation. Cats with kidney disease will show common symptoms. If you are concerned your cat has kidney disease, take him to the veterinarian as soon as possible for treatment.

  1. Changes in Water Consumption and Urination

    • Cats experiencing kidney disease will show a few signs that they are not feeling good. Many cats will drink more—a condition called polydipsia—and as a result, will urinate more, which is called polyuria. Contrarily, some cats will experience the opposite symptoms, states Doctors Foster and Smith; some cats will have a decrease in their urination and some will simply not urinate at all. Cats with kidney disease may also have blood in their urine or urinate at night while sleeping.

    Gastrointestinal Changes

    • According to Dr. Arnold Plotnick of the Pet Place website, some cats with kidney disease will have decreases in their appetites or refuse to eat at all. As a result, they will lose weight. Affected cats may vomit or have diarrhea as well.

    Changes in Behavior and Appearance

    • The Doctors Foster and Smith website states that cats with kidney disease will often act different than usual. Many will appear lethargic and show a reluctance to move. Some will also appear hunched over. Cats experiencing kidney disease may also have poor-looking hair coats and appear unkempt. Affected cats may also have swollen abdomens, on account of an accumulation of fluid, and pale gums, which is indicative of anemia. Cats with kidney disease may also have bad breath that smells like urine, in addition to ulcers on the cheeks and swollen limbs.

    Clinical Signs

    • Some symptoms of kidney disease will not be apparent until your veterinarian performs a physical examination on the cat. Cats with kidney disease are often dehydrated—a condition that the veterinarian will be able to determine. Affected cats often have smaller kidneys than normal, which are often painful, and have high blood pressure. Changes in the retina can occur due to the high blood pressure.