Kidney disease is one of the most common health issues in older cats, but it can affect felines of all ages. The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste, balancing fluids, and regulating important bodily functions. When they start to fail, it’s crucial to catch the problem early to prevent irreversible damage. In this blog, we’ll go over how to spot the early signs of kidney disease in cats and what you can do to help.
1. Increased Thirst (Polydipsia)
One of the earliest and most noticeable signs of kidney disease in cats is increased thirst. If your cat seems to be drinking more water than usual, it could be a sign that their kidneys are struggling to concentrate urine, leading to dehydration. While some cats might naturally drink more water in hot weather, if you notice a consistent increase, it’s time to take a closer look.
Suggestion: Make sure you’re providing clean, fresh water for your cat at all times. You might also want to consider switching to a cat water fountain, which can encourage more drinking. If your cat is drinking excessively, track how much water they consume to report to your vet.
2. Frequent Urination or Accidents Outside the Litter Box
Along with increased thirst, cats with kidney disease may also urinate more frequently or even have accidents outside the litter box. This happens because their kidneys aren’t able to concentrate urine properly, leading to more frequent trips to the litter box. You might also notice that the urine is lighter in color than usual, indicating dilution.
Suggestion: Keep track of how often your cat uses the litter box. If you see changes, note any signs of accidents or inappropriate urination. These are important details for your vet to assess kidney function.
3. Decreased Appetite and Weight Loss
As kidney disease progresses, cats often lose their appetite and begin to lose weight. This can happen gradually, so it may not be immediately noticeable. A cat that’s eating less might also show a disinterest in their usual food or treats, which can be a sign that something’s wrong.
Suggestion: Pay close attention to your cat’s eating habits. If they’re eating less or turning down their favorite foods, try offering a variety of different flavors or wet food to see if they regain interest. If weight loss becomes noticeable, consult your vet for an evaluation.
4. Lethargy and Decreased Activity
Kidney disease can cause your cat to feel tired and lethargic, so they may become less active than usual. If your once-playful cat is now lounging around more often or seems unusually tired, it could be a symptom of kidney dysfunction.
Suggestion: Encourage gentle play and interaction to keep your cat’s energy up. If they’re not interested in playing, try shorter play sessions or different types of toys. However, don’t ignore any noticeable changes in their energy levels, as this could signal the need for a veterinary exam.
5. Bad Breath (Uremic Odor)
A cat with kidney disease may develop a distinctive, foul odor to their breath. This is due to the buildup of waste products, specifically urea, in their bloodstream. As kidney function declines, this condition (known as uremia) causes a metallic or ammonia-like smell in the breath.
Suggestion: If you notice a sudden change in your cat’s breath, it’s a good idea to schedule a visit to the vet. While bad breath can also be caused by dental issues, the combination of bad breath with other symptoms like weight loss or lethargy could point to kidney disease.
6. Vomiting and Diarrhea
As kidney disease progresses, your cat may start to experience gastrointestinal issues like vomiting and diarrhea. This can occur because toxins that are typically filtered out by the kidneys begin to build up in the body, affecting their digestive system.
Suggestion: If vomiting and diarrhea become frequent, try to monitor the consistency of your cat’s stool and track how often they’re throwing up. Keep them hydrated by offering small amounts of water or ice cubes to lick. Your vet may recommend dietary changes or medications to help manage these symptoms.
7. Poor Coat Condition
Another subtle sign of kidney disease in cats is a poor coat condition. You might notice that your cat’s fur looks dull or that they are grooming themselves less often. This is because the body’s metabolism is affected when the kidneys are not functioning properly.
Suggestion: Regular grooming can help, but if your cat’s coat is noticeably different or if they stop grooming altogether, it’s time to consult your vet. Poor coat health combined with other signs like lethargy or weight loss is an important signal that something might be wrong.
What to Do Next
If you suspect your cat may be showing signs of kidney disease, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian as soon as possible. Early detection can make a huge difference in how the disease is managed. Your vet may recommend blood tests, urine tests, or an ultrasound to assess your cat’s kidney function.
How Atlas Animal Hospital Can Help
At Atlas Animal Hospital, we understand how important your pet’s health is, and we’re here to help. If you notice any of the early signs of kidney disease in your cat, don’t wait. Our team is ready to provide thorough testing and a tailored treatment plan to help manage kidney disease and improve your cat’s quality of life. Call us today at 604-301-0300 to schedule an appointment.
