Symptoms & Treatment of Feline Kidney Failure: What You

Part 1: Auxiliary Diagnostic Methods for Feline Kidney Failure

1. Bladder doublecontrast Xray imaging

2. Positive urethrogram photographs

3. Cystoscopy and biopsy

Acute kidney failure (ARF) is a clinical syndrome characterized by a sudden decrease in kidney function (not a specific disease). It is often caused by factors such as poisoning, infection, or vascular ischemia. The kidneys, which receive a large amount of blood flow, are highly sensitive to damage caused by various reasons. Local ischemia can deprive tubular cells of the oxygen needed for metabolic processes, leading to calcium accumulation, cell membrane rupture, and vasoconstriction. ARF caused by renal toxins is relatively common in veterinary practice and can be triggered by many drugs, chemicals, and plants. When ARF occurs, the glomeruli or renal tubules may be damaged.

Acute kidney failure consists of three stages: the onset phase, the maintenance phase, and the recovery phase. During the onset phase, kidney damage occurs, and blood vessels and cells are damaged, leading to reduced urine and creatinine excretion and nitrogenemia. The main characteristics of the maintenance phase are oliguria or anuria, and a decrease in the ability to concentrate urine. Cell swelling, necrosis, and cell debris entering the lumen can block the flow of fluid in the renal tubules, which may last for several days or weeks.

Chronic kidney failure (CRF) is a continuation of kidney pathological changes that begin in the first few years of life. The progression of the disease usually results in kidney failure in old age. The clinical manifestations of this disease include decreased appetite, mild weight loss, mild polydipsia, and polyuria. Kidney failure in cats is indicated by creatinine levels exceeding 5.5 mg/dL. Typically, affected cats have nonregenerative anemia and hypokalemia. Many cats with CRF exhibit systemic hypertension, so it is recommended to measure blood pressure.

Part 2: Treatment Plans for Feline Kidney Failure

In cases of urinary retention, it is necessary to promptly insert an aseptic catheter to drain bladder urine, and sedation may be required if necessary. The treatment period for lower urinary tract infections is generally 57 days; for CRF or ARF, the treatment period will be extended according to the cat's individual condition. Biochemical tests are helpful in determining the cat's kidney function. SAA helps determine the extent of systemic inflammation. Urinalysis is used to rule out bacterial urinary tract diseases or other conditions.

Part 3: Care for Feline Kidney Failure

Most cats with CRF have a guarded prognosis. It is recommended to feed urinary tract prescription food for a certain period of time, and it is almost impossible to make an accurate prognosis at the beginning of treatment based on the results of RF treatment. However, if the kidney size is almost onethird of the normal size and the serum creatinine is higher than 10 mg/dL, caution is advised. Regular biochemical tests are recommended to prevent complications. Unlike ARF or CRF, lower urinary tract infections often recur, with a recurrence rate of up to 70% in some male cats. This is related to the breeding environment and feeding methods, so attention should be paid to various aspects during the breeding process.