How to Prevent Kidney Disease in Cats

The most common cause of kidney failure in cats is old age and that' is not preventable. However, you can take precautions to ensure your cat's overall kidney health. Your cat's veterinarian will play an important role in helping to prevent feline kidney disease. Although there's no guarantee that you can prevent kidney disease in your cat, you can lessen the likelihood of kidney disease occurring. If kidney disease does occur, it can be treated with fluids and medications that increase urine flow. Cats with kidney disease might also be placed on a special diet.

Instructions

    • 1

      Provide plenty of opportunities for your cat to urinate by allowing regular access to a litter box that's placed in a location where your cat feels safe. Clean the litter box regularly to encourage the cat to use it.

    • 2

      Take your cat to the veterinarian for routine examinations and tests that could help detect signs of kidney problems. By analyzing results from laboratory tests, your cat's veterinarian can suggest changes that may help prevent kidney disease. According to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), blood work completed when a cat is still young is useful for establishing baseline values that may be helpful in determining whether your pet is experiencing kidney disease at a later age.

    • 3

      Encourage your cat to drink plenty of water for healthy kidneys by refreshing his water bowl each day or more frequently if needed. Buy a cat drinking fountain to entice cats who don't favor drinking water.

    • 4

      Provide canned cat food for your cat. Some cats refuse to drink enough water, but wet food can help make up for poor water drinking habits. According to Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, canned cat food is a good dietary source of water for cats.