Kidney Disease in Cats When to Euthanize

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) **often hits older cats hard** and ranks as a major kidney issue. Over time, this disease **severely harms the cat’s kidneys**, leading to a struggle for proper function.

CKD affects one out of every three senior cats. 

Unfortunately, about 94% of cats are above ten years old, who develop this disease. Most people do their best to treat kidney disease to extend their cat's life.

Then, there comes a time when you have to let your loving furry friend go. 

As a pet owner, it's your personal decision whether or not to euthanize them.

You are stuck in the decision that kidney disease in cats when to euthanize? This decision is tough. 

Understanding what signs define the end stage of your cat can help you learn when to euthanize.

It is also essential to learn more about kidney disease.

Let's discuss them below. 

Understanding Kidney Failure 

Like the human, the kidney plays an essential role in the cat's health function.

The most important function is to filter the blood and produce urine.

It also maintains the minerals (sodium and potassium) at a proper level. 

In short, it removes toxic waste from the cat's body. When their kidney fails to do so, the condition is considered as kidney insufficiency.

It is the initial stage of kidney insufficiency. 

This time your cat's kidney can function only 15% of their ability. So, the kidney cannot remove excess water and toxin from its blood.

As a result, your cat may lose weight and appetite. 

Sometimes the cat drinks a lot of water and urinates extremely.

Unfortunately, most of us do not notice these symptoms, and things go worse. The time it reaches the final stage, less than 10% of kidney function. 

It can happen at any stage of a cat's life. However, kidney disease is mostly realized in adults to senior cats. 

Symptoms of Kidney Failure

If your cat's kidney is functioning less than 15% than usual, it is considered to be kidney failure.

Your cat may confront many symptoms in each gradual stage of kidney disease. It becomes severe when the cat gets closer to their death. 

So, how to learn about kidney failure? What are the symptoms?

Well, symptoms can vary in cats. Every cat may not experience the same symptoms.

The following symptoms are seen in cats with kidney disease;

• Anemia
• Weight loss
• Hiding
• Heart failure
• Twitching
• Dull eyes
• Restlessness
• Seizures
• Blindness
• Body odor
• Loss of appetite
• Mental confusion
• Incontinence
• Deficiency of urine
• Low potassium levels
• High urea, phosphorus, and creatinine levels

Kidney problems got worse through four-stage, also the symptoms.

It becomes difficult for a cat parent to see their cat to suffer. The symptoms are not the only indication of their euthanasia. 

Kidney Disease in Cats When to Euthanize?

Sometimes, kidney disease can be cured with proper treatment. This is necessary for your peace of mind.

Not all cats respond correctly to the treatment. Yes, it could be the best gift for your sick cat. 

Your first responsibility to take your cat to the veterinarian. Though the decision is yours, the vet can help you with medical suggestions. 

Do you know what may make your choice confusing?

Your cat is about to die, but they bounce back with the proper treatment.

Undoubtedly, it's a good thing, but most of the time, you decide to euthanize before that.

If you see the following responses after the treatment, it means your cat is absolutely doing well. The responses are;

• Improve appetite
• Reduce weight loss
• Increased stamina
• Normal personality

Similarly, the following signs indicate that your cat is not responding to the treatment. You should decide to euthanize now.

• Losing more weight
• Acting differently
• Mentally more confusion
• Blindness
• Bad breathing

Hospital for Cats

Taking the Decision

Note that every cat is different. We suggest you look at the cat's behaviour and physical condition.

Your cat may enjoy a productive life if the treatment works. Otherwise, arrange for euthanizing at home to send your cat to a peaceful sleep. 

Once you take the decision, use an anesthetic agent to slow down their heart.

Then it gradually stops your cat's health functions. Finally, your loving cat will pass away quietly, surrounded by loved ones.

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