Kidney disease is a dangerous condition for cats to have, and one that can eventually kill. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of this disease worsening or progressing can help you to prolong the life of your cat and make them feel more comfortable on a day-to-day basis. If you know your cat has kidney disease and isn't eating well, read this guide to find out what's going on.
Toxic Byproducts
The kidneys, as you likely know, are responsible for removing toxic byproducts from the blood. Every day, the kidneys go to work doing this and utilize fluid, or water, to do it. But when the kidneys are diseased, they don't do their job as well. Gradually, the functionality of the kidneys will diminish until the point where they completely fail.
In the interim, these toxic byproducts can make your kitty feel very sick. If their kidneys aren't effectively removing these toxic byproducts from the blood, it can induce nausea and ruin their appetite.
The Danger of Not Eating
It's an absolute necessity for cats to eat. Not only will not eating only make your cat weaker and less resilient against the disease, but it will also put them at risk of developing a second disease.
Feline fatty liver disease is another condition your cat could face. It's not directly tied to kidney disease, but starvation can trigger it. It's very important for you to make sure that your cat is eating so that it doesn't develop this secondary condition. Fatty liver disease, when treated, rarely kills, but it's one more thing your cat doesn't need right now.
Getting Help
If you even suspect that your cat isn't eating well enough, it's time to head to the vet's office. They'll be able to help you by giving your cat an IV of saline solution that will dilute their blood somewhat and help their body to get the fluid it needs for the kidneys to do their best. With this treatment, you can likely expect your cat to bounce back and feel much better for a time. While you're there, be sure to ask about fluid boluses if you haven't already — this treatment can be performed at home and gives your cat the extra fluid it needs for its kidneys.
Feline kidney disease is something that has to be monitored by both the pet parent and the vet on a regular basis. If your cat is vomiting, not eating, or having any other kind of digestive issues, get help ASAP. Speak with a veterinarian for more information.
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