What signs
should I look out for?

Chronic kidney disease develops over a period of many months, years, and it is quite common for owners to have not noticed any clinical signs in their cats when they are diagnosed with chronic kidney disease. Clinical signs can develop very gradually, so it is important to monitor your cat for any of the signs listed below at home, as they provide a guide to disease progression and response to treatment. If you have any concerns at any time speak to your veterinarian as they will be the best person to give you the right advice for your cat.

Although your cat may look perfectly normal, it is important that you take your cat regularly to the vet so that they can assess whether your cat is likely to be suffering from kidney disease.

As shown in the diagram below, cats may not show any difference in outward appearance in stages I and II.

Early signs for some cats include an increase in urination and drinking. As the disease progresses, more signs may become apparent, including changes to the physical appearance.

 

SIGNS OF KIDNEY DISEASE AT EACH STAGE

 

 

Unfortunately, none of these signs are specific for chronic disease in cats, so your vet may need to do a number of tests to find out what is causing them.