Small Talk - Autumn 2018

by Louise Donoghue DrMedVet MRCVS Millcroft Veterinary Group K idney disease is the term used to describe when the kidneys are not functioning how they should, which can occur as a slow progression or can appear suddenly. Kidney disease affects both cats and dogs but is often seen in higher numbers of cats. The cause of kidney disease is often unknown but some cases can be due to certain breed predisposition or genetics, bacterial infections, exposure to toxins and some types of tumours. Some of the most important clinical signs to watch out for in cases of kidney disease include excessive drinking and urination, weight loss, reduced or poor appetite and unwillingness to groom in the case of affected cats. Kidney disease Kidney disease The kidneys are a very important organ in the body with multiple functions including the regulation of water and electrolytes, excreting waste products from the body and the production of certain hormones.