Chronic Kidney Failure In Cats: 3 Treatments To Prolong Your Cat's Life

Chronic renal failure in cats is fairly common, especially in older cats. Approximately 1.6 percent of cats develop the disease at some point in their life. Unfortunately, there isn't a cure for chronic kidney failure. However, new and promising treatments are emerging. There are also other tried-and-true ways that you can use to treat this progressive disease. Treatment will prolong your cat's life and make them more comfortable. As with most treatments, the sooner you start treatment, the better. Following are a few treatments for chronic kidney failure that will prolong your cat's life.

Diet Management

Diet management is by far the most important treatment for renal failure in cats. The diet recommended for cats with the disease is limited in phosphorus and protein. The food recommended by your vet may also contain added potassium and bicarbonate to reduce inflammation and protect the kidneys against further damage. Studies have shown that cats who adhere to the diet live longer than those who are fed a regular diet.

Adequate water intake is also vital. However, many cats with renal failure do not drink enough water. You may have to increase your cat's water intake by flavoring the water or adding water to their food.

ACE Inhibitors

Your cat's kidneys will function better if you can increase blood flow to them. One way to do this is with medications called ACE inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs). These drugs dilate blood vessels, which increases blood flow. Since cats who have kidney failure often develop high blood pressure, these drugs serve a dual purpose since they lower blood pressure. High blood pressure is particularly worrisome in cats with kidney failure because it increases protein loss, which will make your cat sicker.

Stem Cells

A new treatment is offering hope to cats with renal failure. The treatment involves harvesting your cat's own stem cells and injecting them into your cat's body to help fight the disease. The treatment is new. However, studies have shown that cats who receive the treatment show little progression in their disease for years after treatment. It is believed that the stem cell treatment stabilizes the kidneys and prevents further damage.

Kidney disease is very serious in cats. It gets progressively worse with time, and there is no cure. However, there are several treatments that can prolong your cat's life and help them live a better quality of life. Many of these treatments can add years to your cat's life. For more information, contact a vet at an animal hospital like Metzger Animal Hospital.