Biology Reference
In-Depth Information
are made to help with struvite formation, while your cat will need a pre-
scription brand food that helps with calcium oxalate stones. If your cat
has a history of urinary tract problems, the urine should be monitored
after his diet is changed to be sure the correct balance is being achieved.
I would not recommend feeding a special urinary tract diet with-
out first consulting your veterinarian. Special diets may be harmful to
young, growing kittens or older cats with other medical conditions.
As I've mentioned, feeding more canned food and increasing water
intake is recommended for cats with urinary tract problems. Special
diets are usually available in canned and dry forms. Ultimately, your cat
may be the decision-maker and choose what he is willing to eat.
KITTY'S KIDNEYS
The kidneys are responsible for filtering out waste products from the
blood, conserving water in the body and producing urine. A cat's body
is a wonderful machine, and even though it works best with two kid-
neys, it can do well with one kidney or 50 percent kidney function.
Your veterinarian (or your physician) might use the term
renal
to
describe things having to do with the kidneys. For example, renal insuf-
ficiency means loss of kidney function.
There are many diseases that can affect the kidneys, but regardless
of the cause, most renal diseases are treated similarly. The prognosis for
cats with kidney disease depends on whether the disease is acute or
chronic. Long-standing problems tend to have a less favorable outcome.
Unlike other vital organs, such as the liver, the kidneys are not capable
of regenerating themselves.
Signs of Dysfunctional Kidneys
Clinical signs associated with kidney disease are similar to those of other
diseases, and can include:
•
Increased thirst
•
Increased urination
•
Weight loss
•
Dehydration
•
Dental disease
•
Vomiting
