When a cat develops a kidney disease it causes problems much in the same way as it does in humans - because their kidneys cannot excrete the waste products in their systems to urine, this leads to a toxic build up in the bloodstream. Kidney problems can appear very rapidly or build up slowly over time, as with chronic conditions. However once the cause has been isolated, it is possible for treatment from your vet to allow the cat to live a good quality of life.

There are a whole host of problems that can lead to kidney disease including infections and immunological diseases or hereditary problems. Conditions such as cancer, high blood pressure and urinary obstructions like kidney stones can all lead to a serious problem, while a decreased blood flow to the kidneys also causes similar problems. Finally, an injury or trauma can lead to kidney disease, as can exposure to toxins with antifreeze being a particularly severe case.

So how do you know if your cat has kidney problems? If any of these symptoms are exhibited, you should get the cat to the vets as soon as possible for a full diagnosis. These include:

Urinating in abnormal places

Pain when urinating

Stumbling, as if drunk

Pain in the kidney area

Constipation

Loss of appetite and/or weight

Vomiting and diarrhea

Change in consumption of water

Aversion to using the litter box

Bloody or cloudy urine
Treatment

Older cats are more at risk of getting a kidney disease but cats of any age can contract one. Some cats are born with kidneys that don't work properly while some breeds, such as the Persian, are more prone to hereditary conditions of the kidneys. Cats that spend a lot of time outdoors are at a greater risk of exposure to toxins or to injury.

Vets will normally conduct a physical examination if there is a suspected kidney problem, followed by taking a urine sample and sometimes blood. Radiographs, blood pressure monitoring and ultrasounds may be needed, as may a biopsy in some cases.

Catching a kidney condition early is key to helping the cat. If the kidneys are already failing then emergency medical care is needed and it may not be possible to save the cat. Catching it early can mean one of a number of treatment routes can be used. These include treating the underlying cause if a toxin or other substance is to blame; drugs to help produce urine to get rid of the toxins from the bloodstreams or even a special diet. Fluid therapy may be needed if they are dehydrated and similarly treatment for anemia if this occurs. Finally, medication for problems such as high blood pressure may be prescribed and dialysis if the kidney is failing.

While diet cannot cure the condition, it can help manage it by limiting the intake of protein, sodium and phosphorus. There are now commercially available foods designed for cats with kidney problems to help them eat well and stay healthy. Only give your cat this diet if recommended by a vet, however.