Disease Stage | Physical Conditions | Signs | Treatment |
---|---|---|---|
Stage I | Damage to the kidney is occurring, but waste chemicals in the blood are not abnormally elevated (azotemia is not present). | No easily visible signs. Laboratory or other tests required but may not show abnormalities. | Identify and treat cause of kidney disease and any complications (such as high blood pressure or urinary tract infections). Ensure adequate water intake. |
Stage II | Slowing of waste filtering to < 25% of normal. Buildup of waste chemicals and imbalance of water in urine. | Cat usually shows no signs but may be urinating more than previously. Tests show increased amount of waste chemicals in blood. | Treat underlying cause and complications of the condition. A change of diet may be required (such as a low salt or other special diet). Ensure adequate water intake. |
Stage III | Further loss of kidney filtering ability; blood and urine show further buildup of waste chemicals. | Excessive thirst and urination | Support cat with kidney disease diet, monitor for infections, and treat underlying cause and complications of kidney disease. |
Stage IV | Severe loss of kidney filtering ability. Toxic chemicals build up in blood and affect other organs in the body. | Vomiting, depression, loss of appetite, weight loss, dehydration, mouth sores, diarrhea. Young cats may lose teeth. Bones can become soft and easily breakable. | Provide special diet. Treat underlying conditions. Administration of intravenous or subcutaneous fluids may be necessary. Provide comfort care. In severe cases, kidney dialysis or a kidney transplant might be possible. |