Cats are known for their independence and resilience, but they are just as vulnerable to kidney and urinary issues as any other pet. These health concerns can significantly impact their quality of life, often without obvious symptoms to alert their owners.
Understanding the importance of kidney and urinary tract health in cats is crucial. This guide covers the early signs of disease, diagnostic processes, and effective treatment options. We will explore everything from diet and hydration to monitoring litter box habits, helping cat owners manage these conditions and ensure their pets lead healthier, happier lives.
Kidney and Urinary Function in Cats
The kidney and urinary systems are vital to a cat's health, tasked with eliminating waste, maintaining hydration, and balancing electrolytes. A properly functioning system ensures that blood pressure is regulated, harmful substances are filtered out, and essential hormones are produced.
What is Kidney Disease in Cats?
In cats, the kidneys play a critical role in filtering the blood, removing waste, and balancing bodily fluids and electrolytes. They are also crucial for hormone production, which regulates red blood cell creation and blood pressure.
Kidney disease in cats can appear as either an acute or chronic condition. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is commonly seen in older cats and is characterised by a gradual loss of kidney function over time. Conversely, Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) may occur suddenly and cause rapid deterioration of kidney function, posing serious health risks.
What is Urinary Disease in Cats?
Comprising the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra, the urinary tract is essential for removing waste and excess fluids from the body, a key factor in maintaining a cat's overall health.
Cats can suffer from a variety of urinary diseases, ranging from cystitis (inflammation of the bladder) and urinary stones to more severe conditions such as urethral blockages, particularly in male cats. These issues can lead to significant discomfort and pain, and without timely treatment, can escalate into life-threatening complications.
What are the Causes of Kidney & Urinary Disease in Cats?
Understanding the causes of kidney and urinary diseases in cats is crucial for prevention and effective management. These conditions can stem from a variety of sources, ranging from genetic predispositions to lifestyle factors.
Kidney-Related Issues
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Common in older cats, often leading to gradual organ degradation.
Lymphoma or Carcinoma: These types of cancer can affect the kidneys and are relatively common.
Cystic Kidney Disease: Frequently seen in certain breeds, characterised by the formation of fluid-filled sacs in the kidneys.
Bladder/Urinary Tract Issues
Infections: Bacterial infections can inflame the urinary tract, leading to discomfort and other symptoms.
Stress Cystitis: Particularly in cats, stress can lead to inflammation of the bladder.
Bladder Stones: Mineral deposits can form stones that may cause blockages or irritation.
Obstructions: Known as "blocked cats," this serious condition occurs when cats are unable to urinate due to a blockage.
Breed-Specific Concerns
Certain breeds of cats are more susceptible to kidney and urinary diseases. For example, the Abyssinian is known to be prone to amyloidosis of the kidneys, a condition involving protein deposits. Additionally, breeds like Siamese, Ragdoll, and Burmese are also more likely to develop chronic kidney disease due to genetic factors.
If your cat belongs to one of these breeds, it's especially important to maintain regular veterinary check-ups. Early detection and proactive management can significantly improve the quality of life and longevity of cats with breed-specific vulnerabilities to kidney and urinary diseases.
What are the Signs of Kidney & Urinary Disease in Cats?
Recognising the signs of kidney and urinary diseases in cats is crucial for early detection and effective management. These symptoms can vary but often include noticeable changes in water consumption and litter box behaviour.
Kidney-Related Symptoms
Increased Water Consumption and Urination: Cats may drink more and subsequently urinate larger volumes, which can be an early indicator of kidney issues.
Weight Loss: Often accompanied by a deterioration in the cat's overall appearance and coat quality.
Urinary Tract-Related Symptoms
Frequent Litter Box Visits: Cats may visit the litter tray multiple times with little-to-no urine voided.
Discomfort or Pain: Manifested by straining during urination.
Changes in Urine: Discoloured or particularly foul-smelling urine can indicate a problem.
Litter Box Monitoring
One of the most effective ways to detect early signs of kidney and urinary diseases in cats is by vigilant litter box monitoring. Observing changes can provide critical early warnings, and here are some things to look out for:
1. Increased Urine Volume: More urine than usual can indicate kidney disease.
2. Changes in Urine Smell and Colour: A strong odour or unusual colour may suggest a urinary tract infection.
3. Frequency of Use: An increase or decrease in litter box use can be a sign of health issues.
4. Inappropriate Urination: Urination outside of the litter box, such as on the bathroom floor, may also indicate urinary tract distress.
Early detection of these symptoms is key to effectively managing kidney and urinary diseases in cats. Regular monitoring and prompt veterinary consultation can prevent complications and ensure better health outcomes for your feline friend.
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How to Support a Cat with Kidney/Urinary Disease
Supporting a cat with kidney or urinary disease involves a combination of careful monitoring, timely diagnosis, and appropriate treatment to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Diagnosis of Kidney/Urinary Disease in Cats
Diagnosing kidney and urinary diseases in cats typically begins with a thorough evaluation by a veterinarian, including:
Blood Tests: Essential for assessing kidney function and overall health.
Urine Tests: Help evaluate kidney performance and detect urinary tract infections.
Ultrasound: Provides a visual assessment of the kidney and bladder structure.
Cystoscopy: Especially useful for examining the urethra and bladder for cats with urinary tract issues.
Regular visits to the vet are crucial for early diagnosis and ongoing management of kidney and urinary diseases, ensuring the best possible outcome for your cat.
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Treatment Methods for Cats with Urinary/Kidney Disease
Effective treatment of kidney and urinary diseases in cats often requires a multifaceted approach, focusing on managing both the symptoms and any underlying conditions that could worsen the prognosis. Key treatment strategies include:
Managing Underlying Conditions: Addressing diseases that contribute to or complicate kidney and urinary health.
Controlling Hypertension: High blood pressure can be damaging to the kidneys, so maintaining normal pressure is crucial.
Ensuring Adequate Hydration: Promoting good water intake to help flush the kidneys and urinary tract.
Regular Urination: Encouraging frequent urination to prevent the build-up of toxins and crystals.
Infection and Inflammation Control: Using medications to manage infections and reduce inflammation within the urinary tract.
B Complex Vitamins: Essential for general health and can help support kidney function.
Together, these strategies form a comprehensive plan to manage kidney and urinary diseases in cats, aiming to stabilise the condition and provide a comfortable life for your pet.
How to Prevent Urinary & Kidney Disease in Cats
Preventing kidney and urinary diseases in cats is essential for maintaining their overall health and well-being. Effective prevention involves a combination of proper diet, adequate hydration, appropriate use of supplements, and other general care practices.
The Importance of a Balanced Diet
A balanced diet plays a crucial role in the health of a cat's kidney and urinary systems. Here are some dietary considerations to help prevent these diseases:
Kidney Health: Feeding a high-quality diet is vital. Once renal disease is diagnosed, a renal-specific food is recommended to support kidney function.
Urinary Health: A urinary support diet can help prevent the formation of urinary stones and crystals. Ensuring adequate water intake alongside this diet promotes a healthier bladder and helps maintain urine dilution and optimal pH levels, reducing the risk of stress cystitis.
Browse our vet-recommended kidney & urinary health diets
Hill's Prescription Diet c/d Multicare Urinary Stress Adult Cat Wet Food 85g Pouches
Hill's Prescription Diet c/d Multicare Stress Urinary Care Cat Food is clinical nutrition specially formulated to support your cat's urinary health while also managing stress. It is a stress relief cat food clinically proven to lower the recurrence rate of the most common urinary signs by 89%. This wet cat food is made with chicken and has a mouth-watering taste that your cat will love.
A healthy bladder starts with the right balance of vital nutrients. Excess minerals can encourage the formation of crystals in cat urine, which may lead to the creation of bladder stones. They can cause discomfort and lead to more serious problems that require the care of a veterinarian. Stress has been shown to negatively impact bladder health as well.
It's important to continue to feed Prescription Diet c/d Multicare Stress Urinary Care Cat Food to help maintain your cat's urinary health, even after their urinary symptoms improve. Consult your veterinarian for further information on how Prescription Diet foods can help them continue to enjoy a happy and active life.
- Nutrition clinically proven to lower the recurrence of the most common urinary signs by 89%
- With ingredients to manage stress related urinary episodes, a risk factor for common urinary signs
- Formulated to dissolve struvite stones in as little as 7 days (average 27 days)
- Formulated to promote a urinary environment that reduces the risk of developing struvite and calcium oxalate crystals
- Recommended for lifelong feeding of adult cats
Royal Canin Veterinary Early Renal Dry Cat Food
Royal Canin Veterinary Early Renal Dry Cat Food is a precisely formulated diet to support pets with early Chronic Kidney Disease.
Early Renal diet is recommended when the cat is diagnosed in CKD stage 1 or clinoptilolite of sedimentary origin: 0.2 g. early stage 2 and non-proteinuric. Cats may remain on Early Renal until creatinine elevates outside of reference ranges. At this point, the cat should be switched to a Renal diet. It is recommended that a full health check be performed every 6 months.
Benefits include:
- Early Renal Support
- Age Support
- Digestive Support
- S/O Index
Hill's Prescription Diet c/d Multicare Urinary Care Adult Cat Dry Food
Hill's Prescription Diet c/d Multicare is clinical nutrition tested to lower the recurrence of most common urinary signs by 89% in cats. It’s made in the USA with global ingredients you can trust, and was developed by Hill’s nutritionists and veterinarians. This food contains controlled levels of magnesium, calcium and phosphorous to help reduce the building blocks of struvite and calcium oxalate stones. It’s also enriched with antioxidants, potassium citrate and omega-3 fatty acids. Please consult your veterinarian for further information on how Prescription Diet foods can help a cat continue to enjoy a happy and active life.
- Clinically tested to lower the recurrence rate of most common urinary signs by 89% Dissolves struvite stones in as little as 7 days (Average 27 days) and promotes desirable urine pH levels
- Formulated to promote a urinary environment that reduces the risk of developing struvite and calcium oxalate crystals
- Recommended for lifelong feeding of adult cats ▸Hill’s Prescription Diet is the #1
- US Vet Recommended therapeutic pet food — consult with your vet to make sure Prescription Diet c/d Multicare is the right food for your cat
Hydration
Hydration is critically important for both kidney function and urinary health in cats. Increased water intake helps dilute urine, which can prevent the formation of stones and reduce the burden on the kidneys.
Here are some tips to encourage cats to drink more water:
1. Water Fountains: Many cats prefer running water, and a fountain can encourage them to drink more frequently.
2. Wet Food: Incorporating wet food into the diet increases fluid intake.
3. Adding Water to Food: This can further boost hydration.
4. Multiple Water Sources: Providing several sources of fresh water throughout the home ensures that cats have access to water at all times.
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Shop our vet-recommended urinary supplements
Cystophan Urinary Capsules for Cats
Cystophan Urinary Capsules support urinary health in cats, helping to protect against external factors that can negatively interfere with your pet’s bladder and nervous system.
Cystophan works by preserving the protective glycosaminoglycan (GAG) layer which coats the bladder, protecting it from direct exposure to urine. Without this protective layer, urine activates sensory nerve fibres which the brain perceives as uncomfortable.
Cystophan also contains L-tryptophan, which is used in the brain to make serotonin, the happy hormone.
These capsules are easy to administer: simply open and empty the contents on or into your cat’s food.
Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Supplements Hydra Care 75g Pouches
Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Supplements Hydra Care™ is a feline Hydration Supplement with a great tasting formula –proven to increase cat’s liquid intake and promote urine dilution.
Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Supplements Hydra Care™ is a nutrient-enriched liquid designed to help promote healthy hydration in cats and increase urine dilution. Adequate water intake is essential for your cat’s overall health, especially for maintaining a healthy urinary tract. This supplement is specifically formulated to encourage your cat to drink more water, which can be particularly beneficial for cats that may have difficulty drinking enough water on their own or those suffering from urinary tract issues.
- Scientifically designed, nutrient enriched liquid, to help promote total liquid intake and improve hydration.
- Helps dilute urine to support urinary health.
- Shown to decrease urine specific gravity* *Compared to cats consuming only water in addition to dry feeding.
- Helps support healthy hydration.
- Added nutritional osmolytes support hydration.
- Easy to feed.
- No added artificial colours and preservatives.
- Endorsed by International Society of Feline Medicine (ISFM).
Feliway Anti-Anxiety Diffuser Refill
Feliway® offers cat owners a drug and surgery free alternative for treating stress-related behavioural problems that can otherwise become a costly and emotionally draining issue for owners and their pets. Using a similar principle to air freshener and insect repellent type diffusers, Feliway disperses a synthetic analogue of feline facial pheromones, which scientific trials have proven as an effective control for a range of behaviour disorders displayed by cats, such as urine spraying.
When plugged into the cat’s environment, the Feliway Diffuser disperses the calming pheromones for up to four weeks. As pheromones are species specific, Feliway is not harmful to humans or other animals. Feliway is natural, safe and simple to use. A consultation with a vet is recommended to ascertain the severity and causes for behavioural problems exhibited.
Separate Feliway liquid refills are available.
When using the Feliway Diffuser:
- Remove the vial cap
- Screw the diffuser onto the vial and gently tighten
- Plug the diffuser into an electric socket
- Do not plug in behind a door, curtain or underneath furniture
- Leave the device switched on continuously for at least four weeks
- Replace the refill as required
In multicat households the use of the Feliway Diffuser will reduce the general level of stress.
Always consult your veterinarian first if your cat is showing signs of stress.
Other Preventative Measures
Additional strategies to prevent kidney and urinary diseases include:
Regular Veterinary Checks: Routine vet visits should include blood pressure monitoring and urine concentration tests to detect early signs of disease.
Management of Concurrent Diseases: Proper management of conditions such as arthritis and diabetes is essential.
Minimising Certain Medications: Avoid using medications that are harsh on the kidneys unless absolutely necessary.
Avoiding Nephrotoxic Substances: Keep nephrotoxic substances like antifreeze and plants such as lilies out of reach, as they can be extremely harmful if ingested.
By combining these dietary, hydration, and care strategies, cat owners can significantly reduce the risk of kidney and urinary diseases, helping their cats lead longer, healthier lives.
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Dr Jane’s Advice
In closing, here's a piece of invaluable advice from Dr Jane for all cat owners who want to ensure the long-term kidney and urinary health of their feline friends:
"Maintaining your cat's kidney and urinary health starts at home. I cannot stress enough the importance of feeding your cat a high-quality diet and always ensuring they have access to fresh water. It’s vital to keep a close eye on their litter tray habits too; changes in urine volume, colour, or frequency can be early signs of health issues. Make regular veterinary visits a priority, especially as your cat gets older, to keep track of their blood work, urine tests, and blood pressure. These practices are your best tools for catching potential problems early and keeping your beloved cat healthy and happy."
- Dr Jane Miller BSc, BVSc (hons)
By following Dr Jane's advice, cat owners can play a proactive role in preventing kidney and urinary issues, ensuring their cats remain healthy and vibrant for years to come.
