Chronic Renal Failure in Cats

Haley RoeckerISU College of Veterinary Medicine

Class of 2017

What is it?• Chronic renal failure is a disease of 1 or, usually, both

kidneys that has been present for greater than 3 months

• There is usually greater than ~75% reduction in kidney function

• It is common in older cats

• It is a serious condition that requires medical attention

http://www.vcahospitals.com/main/pet-health-information/article/animal-health/kidney-failure-acute-in-cats/42

Signs & Symptoms • Increased drinking and

urinating• Anorexia• Lethargy• Vomiting and diarrhea• Constipation

• Weight loss• Seizures or coma• Dehydration• Oral ulcers• Decreased body

temperature

Causes of Renal Failure• Toxins• Chronic urinary obstruction• Certain drugs• Kidney stones• Lymphoma • Leptospirosis• Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP)• Other unknown causes

Diagnosis • Bloodwork• Urinalysis • Radiographs • Ultrasound

https://www.google.com/search?q=x-rays&biw=1600&bih=799&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=wLqRVdvFIYG9sAX2v53AAw&ved=0CAYQ_AUoAQ#q=lab+tests&tbm=isch&tbas=0

Meet “Gus”• Gus is a 12 year old orange tabby

• His owners brought him to IVS because he was dehydrated, not eating, losing weight, and had ulcers in his mouth

What IVS did for “Gus”• Gus was diagnosed based on a urinalysis

and bloodwork• Treatment:

• IV fluids for the dehydration and diuresis ("flushing out the wastes")

• Medications for the stomach ulcers• Medicated mouthwash for the oral

ulcers• Anti-nausea medications• Appetite stimulants

Recovery • Gus was hospitalized at IVS for 5 days

• He was able to go home once his bloodwork was normal and he was clinically improved

• He will still be on medications at home and will need to be seen by his regular veterinarian for check-ups

Prognosis• Chronic renal failure is not curable

• It is medically managed to improve quality of life and survival

If you are concerned that your cat has renal failure, please see your veterinarian