As of: March 27, 2024, 5:45 a.m
By: Sophie Kluß
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It is a sad truth that cats are not immortal.
One of the biggest threats is a disease that often goes undetected.
How you can take precautions.
Dealing with the death of your own cat – an emotional challenge that many owners would prefer to push away.
But even if you don't want to admit it: the darlings are getting older and one day they will close their eyes forever.
Helvetia Insurance
explains which cause of death is most often responsible in Germany
.
According to this, kidney diseases, closely followed by traffic accidents, are the two most common causes of death in cats.
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Detect and treat kidney diseases
One of the most common kidney diseases in cats is chronic kidney failure.
The disease is particularly common in older cats and is usually fatal if left untreated.
But if detected early and with the right treatment, not only the animal's quality of life, but also its life expectancy can be significantly improved.
As cats get older, they can develop various diseases, such as chronic kidney failure.
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In the case of the incurable disease, the cat's kidneys only function to a limited extent, so that the toxins from the blood are no longer sufficiently broken down.
If the so-called chronic kidney failure (cKD) is not recognized and therefore not treated, the cat will die as a result.
With appropriate medication, however, the cats hardly lose any of their quality of life.
Symptoms of chronic kidney disease (cKD) in cats
The insidious thing about this disease is the fact that it often goes undetected at first.
But once the kidney tissue is damaged, there is no chance of healing.
Diagnosis as early as possible is therefore crucial.
Regular check-ups at the vet and blood tests for your cat from around the age of five are important in order to detect the onset of insufficiency in good time.
What other signs should you look out for in your cat?
Decreased appetite to loss of appetite
Increased drinking
More frequent urination
weight loss
Decreased activity/increased need for sleep
Vomiting and diarrhea
Bad breath
Pale mucous membranes
Anemia
Striking fur
If you notice one or more of the symptoms mentioned in your cat, you should consult a veterinarian as soon as possible.
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Causes of chronic kidney failure in cats
Cats may be predisposed to chronic kidney failure.
But there are also some breeds that are particularly susceptible to kidney disease.
These include the Maine Coon, the Persian cat and the Siamese cat.
The exact cause of the disease usually remains unknown.
However, the following circumstances can cause kidney failure:
Age-related kidney disease
Infections
Tumors
Unhealthy, unbalanced diet
high blood pressure
Defects in the immune system, for example due to poisons
Trauma that triggers impaired blood flow to the kidney (renal ischemia)
This article only contains general information on the respective topic and is therefore not intended for self-diagnosis, treatment or medication. It in no way replaces a visit to the vet. Our editorial team is not allowed to answer individual questions about illnesses in your animal.