Kidney disease is also referred to as renal disease and, if left untreated, can lead to kidney failure. Feline kidney disease can be caused by a variety of conditions, including bacterial infections, parasites and cancer; however, kidney disease most often occurs in older cats.
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Diagnosis
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To diagnose kidney disease in a cat, the veterinarian will perform several tests, including a physical exam, blood tests and a urinalysis. The veterinarian will also ask about symptoms such as excessive drinking or urinating and other changes in behavior.
Fluid Therapy
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In cats suffering from kidney disease, fluid therapy is often one of the first treatments. Many cats become dehydrated from kidney disease, so IV fluids are important for rehydrating the cat.
Diet
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Once the cat has become rehydrated, he will probably begin to display an interest in food. The cat should be placed onto a high-quality-protein diet and should be fed smaller quantities throughout the day.
Underlying Conditions
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If kidney disease is occurring due to an underlying condition, the cat will be treated for that as well. For example, if a bacterial infection is the cause of kidney disease, then antibiotics will be prescribed to treat the infection.
Additional Treatments
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Depending on the region, additional treatments for feline kidney disease may be available, such as kidney dialysis or kidney transplants.
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