Prognosis for Feline Kidney Failure

Feline kidney failure, commonly known as chronic renal failure (CRF), is a terminal disease for which there is no cure; however, with proper management, felines can live years with a high-quality life.

  1. Symptoms

    • Cats suffering from CRF often show signs of weakness, lethargy, nausea and discomfort; however, unless convulsing, the feline rarely is in severe pain.

    Medication

    • Even though there are no current medications to treat CRF in felines, veterinarians usually prescribe several medications to ease the symptoms. For example, Winstrol-V is a steroid prescribed specifically to increase the appetite in CRF cats.

    Environment

    • Owners of CRF cats should take extra steps to improve the environment in which the cat lives, which can help prolong life. Examples include ensuring that the cat is in a stress-free environment and that the cat is handled carefully by others in the household.

    Monitoring

    • Owners of cats with CRF also should monitor litter box habits, food consumption and water intake, and report any changes to the managing veterinarian.

    The End

    • If felines suffering from CRF do not eventually die on their own, owners should be prepared to discuss euthanasia procedures and timelines with the veterinarian.