Cats and kidney disease: What you need to know


Studies suggest that roughly 30% of cats aged 10 years or more will develop kidney issues. For senior cats aged 15 or more, roughly 80% will have an issue. Photo: ELLEN WHYTE

Studies suggest that roughly 30% of cats aged 10 years or more will develop kidney issues. For senior cats aged 15 or more, roughly 80% will have an issue.

Common signs something is wrong include increased thirst, frequent trips to the litter box, weight loss, change in appetite, vomiting and low energy.

Diagnosis means having blood taken and tested. There are different types of kidney disease in cats with various underlying causes. Therefore, each cat needs its own diagnosis and care plan.

For my cat Target, the vet said his issue means he needs help to get rid of phosphorus. This is quite a common problem.

Too much phosphorus makes the kidneys work harder and can make a cat feel worse. A phosphorus binder is a powder that helps with this.

The powder is tasteless and has no smell either. You sprinkle it over food and the cat won’t even know it’s there.

The binder sticks to phosphorus in the food while it is in your pet’s stomach and gut. It then helps the phosphorous pass through the body – and into the litter box.

This helps lower blood phosphorus levels which protects the kidneys.

Kidney issues can be managed. So whatever plan your kitty is on, be sure to monitor regularly. If you notice any worrying signs, contact your vet right away.

 

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Katz Tales , cats , pets

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