Common Complications of Feline Kidney Failure: An Overv

Part 1: Diagnosing Feline Kidney Failure

When assessing a cat for kidney failure, it's crucial to examine their muscle tone. Generally, cats with chronic kidney disease often suffer from longterm uraemia, leading to muscle atrophy and weight loss. Acute kidney failure in cats, on the other hand, is often characterized by vomiting and elevated levels of urea nitrogen in the body. To diagnose kidney failure, radiographic imaging is commonly used. In acute kidney failure, Xrays may show an increase or no change in kidney size, whereas in chronic kidney failure, the kidneys may appear smaller. Ultrasound imaging during acute kidney failure will reveal less significant changes in the renal cortex and medulla compared to chronic kidney failure. Blood tests in cats with chronic kidney failure may show anemia, although this is less common in acute cases. Electrolyte tests can reveal that chronic kidney failure is often associated with polyuria and hypokalemia, while acute kidney failure presents with the opposite pattern.

Part 2: Complications of Kidney Failure in Cats

1. Neurological Complications: Elevated levels of blood urea nitrogen and creatinine can lead to neuronal degeneration, causing hypertension and eventually leading to cerebral edema.

2. Musculoskeletal Issues: Hyperparathyroidism can cause a significant decrease in blood calcium levels due to the stimulation of phosphorus ions, leading to impaired vitamin D absorption. This can result in joint diseases such as fibrous osteitis, osteomalacia, bone pain, and joint pain.

3. Gastrointestinal Disorders: The breakdown of urea in the urine produces ammonia, which can irritate the digestive mucosa, leading to ulcers and bleeding. Cats with kidney failure may also experience longterm anorexia, vomiting, and excessive gastric acid secretion, causing a series of gastrointestinal injuries.

4. Respiratory System: Urea in the blood can enter the lungs, causing fibrous pneumonia, pleurisy, and coughing. Hyperparathyroidism can lead to calcification of alveoli, causing rapid breathing and acidosis.

5. Cardiovascular Complications: Heart failure and hypoproteinemia can lead to pulmonary edema. Acidosis in the circulatory system, along with increased blood pressure and the toxic effects of substances like uric acid on the myocardium, can result in pericardial effusion, myocardial degeneration, and heart failure.

6. Metabolic and Nutritional Issues: Longterm consumption can lead to decreased blood glucose levels and abnormal protein metabolism, resulting in weight loss and dehydration.

7. Dermatological Changes: The skin can become calcified, with hyperpigmentation and coarse hair.

Pet Doctor's Tip: For more information on feline kidney health, consider reading our article on "How to Prevent Kidney Diseases in Cats."