Kidney Failure Symptoms in a Persian Cat

Persian cats are prone to a disease known as polycystic kidney disease, or PKD. This inherited disease may also go by the name of Polycystic Renal Disease. It can produce symptoms similar to kidney failure and eventually, PKD can lead to kidney failure. PKD is an inherited disease and up to 50 percent of all cats who are affected by PKD will eventually develop kidney failure.

  1. Changes in Water Intake

    • Cats who are suffering from kidney failure will display a subtle or obvious change in their drinking habits. Kidney failure causes an increase in urine production, which will lead to an increase in thirst, which is known as polydipsia.

    Urination

    • The owner may notice that their Persian has begun to use the litter box with increasing frequency because of the cat̵7;s increased water intake. Increased or excessive urination is referred to as polyuria.

    Dehydration

    • Excessive urination, even with an increase in thirst and water intake, can lead to dehydration. If dehydration occurs, it is important to get the Persian cat the necessary veterinary care, such as IV fluids, to prevent dire consequences such as coma or death.

    Appetite and Weight Loss

    • Persians suffering from kidney failure may also suffer from a loss of appetite accompanied by weight loss. Weight loss can speed up the process of kidney failure, so it is important to make every effort to tempt the affected Persian with various foods.

    Vomiting

    • Some cats may experience uremic gastritis (stomach irritation) or nausea, both of which can lead to vomiting or gagging. Vomit may be clear or foamy in appearance and may contain recognizable food particles.

    Changes in Behavior

    • Persians with kidney failure may become depressed or lethargic. This may mean that they no longer show interest in favorite past times activities such as bird watching, favorite toys, scratching posts or following their owner around the home. Some Persians may also stop participating in their regular grooming habits, leading to poor or unkempt coat quality.

    Additional Symptoms

    • Persian cats may also suffer from various other symptoms including constipation, drooling or a cracking or grinding sound from their jaw. This sound may be noticed whenever the cat eats or yawns. There may also be muscle wasting, halitosis (bad breath, similar to an ammonia smell), sensitivity to sound, weakness, detached retinas and oral ulcers.

    Final Symptoms

    • The final symptoms of kidney failure in cats include convulsions, a lower than normal body temperature, and finally, coma.