There are two main kinds of kidney disease, Chronic Kidney Disease, abbreviated as CKD, and Acute Kidney Injury, abbreviated as AKI. Chronic Kidney Disease is a progressive, irreversible deterioration of kidney function. Acute Kidney Injury is characterized by an abrupt shutdown of kidney function, most often accompanied by oliguria (reduced urine production). CRF is one of the leading causes of illness and death in older cats.
Although CKD can only be diagnosed with clinical tests, some behaviours can be indicative :
Although CKD can only be diagnosed with clinical tests, some behaviours can be indicative :
- increased thirst (polydipsia) and excessive urination (polyuria) as the body tries to flush out waste
- Depression
- Dehydration
- Halitosis (ammonia smell)
- Stomach acidity or gastritis
- Mouth ulcers
- Emaciation due to muscle wasting
- Poor hair coat