Tanya

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TANYA'S

COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE TO

FELINE CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE

24 July 2000 - 24 July 2020

Twenty years online!

(Not tax deductible since I am a private individual)

 

 

 

 

ALPHABETICAL INDEX OF SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENTS

 

HOME


Site Overview


Just Diagnosed? What You Need to Know First


Search This Site


 

 

WHAT IS CKD?


What Happens in CKD


Causes of CKD


How Bad is It?


Is There Any Hope?


Acute Kidney Injury


 

KEY ISSUES: PROLONGING LIFE


Phosphorus Control


Hypertension

(High Blood Pressure)


Proteinuria


Anaemia


Potassium Imbalances


Pyelonephritis (Kidney Infections) and Urinary Tract Infections NEW


Metabolic Acidosis


Kidney Stones


 

KEY ISSUES: HELPING YOUR CAT FEEL BETTER


Nausea, Vomiting, Appetite Loss and Excess Stomach Acid


Maintaining Hydration


The B Vitamins (Including Methylcobalamin)


Constipation


 

CAT FOOD DATA


Ways of Assessing Food Content, Including What is Dry Matter Analysis


How to Use the Food Data Tables


USA Canned Food Data


USA Dry Food Data


USA Cat Food Brands: Helpfulness Ratings


USA Cat Food Brands: Contact Details


USA Food Data Book


 

SUPPORT


Coping with CKD


Tanya's Support Group


Success Stories


 

SYMPTOMS


Important: Crashing


Alphabetical List of Symptoms and Treatments


Fluid and Urinary  Imbalances (Dehydration, Overhydration and Urinary Issues)


Waste Product Regulation Imbalances (Vomiting, Appetite Loss, Excess Stomach Acid, Gastro-intestinal Problems, Mouth Ulcers Etc.)


Phosphorus and Calcium Imbalances


Miscellaneous Symptoms (Pain, Hiding Etc.)


 

DIAGNOSIS: WHAT DO ALL THE TEST RESULTS MEAN?


Early Detection


Blood Chemistry: Kidney Function, Potassium, Other Tests (ALT, Amylase, (Cholesterol, Etc.)


Calcium, Phosphorus, Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) and Secondary Hyperparathyroidism


Complete Blood Count (CBC): Red and White Blood Cells: Anaemia and Infection


Urinalysis (Urine Tests)


Other Tests: Ultrasound, Biopsy, X-rays etc.


Renomegaly (Enlarged Kidneys)


Which Tests to Have and Frequency of Testing


Factors that Affect Test Results


Normal Ranges


International and US Measuring Systems


 

TREATMENTS


Which Treatments are Essential


Fluid and Urinary Issues (Fluid Retention, Infections, Incontinence, Proteinuria)


Waste Product Regulation (Mouth Ulcers, GI Bleeding, Antioxidants, Adsorbents, Azodyl, Astro's CRF Oil)


Phosphorus, Calcium and Secondary Hyperparathyroidism (Calcitriol)


Phosphorus Binders


Steroids, Stem Cell Transplants and Kidney Transplants


Antibiotics and Painkillers


Holistic Treatments (Including Slippery Elm Bark)


ESAs (Aranesp, Epogen etc.) for Severe Anaemia


General Health Issues in a CKD Cat: Fleas, Arthritis, Dementia, Vaccinations


Tips on Medicating Your Cat


Obtaining Supplies Cheaply in the UK, USA and Canada


Working with Your Vet and Recordkeeping


 

DIET & NUTRITION


Nutritional Requirements of CKD Cats


The B Vitamins (Including Methylcobalamin)


What to Feed (and What to Avoid)


Persuading Your Cat to Eat


2007 Food Recall USA


 

FLUID THERAPY


Oral Fluids


Intravenous Fluids


Subcutaneous Fluids


Tips on Giving Subcutaneous Fluids


How to Give Subcutaneous Fluids with a Giving Set


How to Give Subcutaneous Fluids with a Syringe


Subcutaneous Fluids - Winning Your Vet's Support


Dialysis


 

RELATED DISEASES


Heart Problems


Hyperthyroidism


Diabetes


Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)


Pancreatitis


Dental Problems


Anaesthesia


 

OBTAINING SUPPLIES CHEAPLY


UK


USA Online


USA Local (Fluids)


Canada


 

SAYING GOODBYE


The Final Hours


Other People's Losses


Coping with Your Loss


 

MISCELLANEOUS


Prevention


Feline CKD Research, Including Participation Opportunities


CKD Research in Other Species


Share This Site: A Notice for Your Vet's Bulletin Board or Your Local Pet Shop


Canine Kidney Disease


Other Illnesses (Cancer, Liver) and Behavioural Problems


Diese Webseite auf Deutsch


 

SITEOWNER (HELEN)


My Three CKD Cats: Tanya, Thomas and Ollie


Find Me on Facebook


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Contact Me


Home > Symptoms > Index of Symptoms and Treatments

 


Overview


  • There are many symptoms of CKD and it can be a bit bewildering at times.

  • You may panic if you see a particular symptom and worry about how serious it is.

  • This page has an alphabetical list of symptoms, together with links to the usual treatments for that problem. Some of the treatments may vary, depending upon the cause.


How to Find The Symptom You Need


 

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

J

K

L

M

N

O

P

Q

R

S

T

U

V

W

X

Y

Z

 

There are many symptoms of CKD, so it can be a bit bewildering at times. You may panic if you see a particular symptom and worry about how serious it is. This page therefore contains an alphabetical list of symptoms which can arise in CKD cats (lefthand column), together with links to more information for each problem (righthand column). As you can see, almost every symptom has a possible treatment.

 

Some of the problems may have more than one cause. If you do not know the cause in your cat’s case, look down the list to see if there are other symptoms that seem familiar. For example, your cat may have weak back legs but you do not know the cause. However, you also know that your cat is constipated and is having trouble holding his head up. Taken together, you would probably want to ask your vet to investigate the possibility of low potassium levels first.

 

If you are not sure, check out all possible causes of a particular symptom, and remember to see your vet for a proper diagnosis.

 


A


 

Symptoms and Possible Causes

More Information and Possible Treatments

 

"Absences"

High potassium levels

Potassium Imbalances

Hypertension

All About Hypertension

Calcium imbalances

Regulation of Minerals

Uraemia (high toxin levels)

Regulation of Waste Product Imbalances

Metabolic acidosis

All About Metabolic Acidosis

Side effect of metoclopramide (rare)

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

 

Alopecia (Pulling Out Hair)

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism Treatments

 

Always Hungry

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism Treatments

 

Anaemia

 

Lack of erythropoietin (hormone)

Erythropoiesis Stimulating Agents

Infections or inflammation

Antibiotics (if bacterial infection)

Side effect of methimazole for hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism Treatments

Vitamin B deficiency       

The Importance of B Vitamins

Gastrointestinal bleeding

Waste Product Regulation Imbalances

Flea infestation

Flea treatments

 

 

Appetite Increase

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism Treatments

 

Appetite Loss

Dehydration

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Imbalances

Uraemia (high toxin levels)

Regulation of Waste Product Imbalances

High phosphorus levels

The Importance of Phosphorus Control

Anaemia

All About Anaemia

Metabolic acidosis

All About Metabolic Acidosis

Mouth ulcers

Mouth Ulcers Treatments

Gastric hyperacidity or nausea

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

Alteration of sense of smell

Persuading Your Cat to eat - Warming the food

Hypertension

All About Hypertension

Dental problems

Dental Problems Treatments

Fluid retention or build-up

Fluid and Urinary Issues Treatments

Low potassium levels

Potassium Imbalances

Use of certain antibiotics

Antibiotic Choices

Constipation

All About Constipation

Side effect of methimazole for hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism Treatments

Pain

Painkillers

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis Treatments

 

Ataxia (Lack of Co-ordination/Unsteady Walk)

High phosphorus levels

The Importance of Phosphorus Control

Constipation

All About Constipation

 


B


 

Symptoms and Possible Causes

More Information and Possible Treatments

 

 

Back Leg Weakness

 

Low potassium levels

Potassium Imbalances

Anaemia

All About Anaemia

High phosphorus levels

The Importance of Phosphorus Control

Metabolic acidosis

All About Metabolic Acidosis

Diabetic neuropathy

Diabetes Treatments

Constipation

All About Constipation

Stroke (Hypertension)

All About Hypertension

Arthritis

Arthritis Treatments

 

Back Leg Weakness in One Leg Only

Arterial thromboembolism (heart problem)

Arterial Thromboembolism Treatments

 

Bad Breath

Uraemia (high toxin levels)

Regulation of Waste Product Imbalances

 

Bleeding After Subcutaneous Fluids

Nicked a small vein

Subcutaneous Fluids Tips

 

Bleeding Eyes

Hypertension

All About Hypertension

 

Blindness

Hypertension

All About Hypertension

Thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency

The Importance of B Vitamins

Use of enrofloxacin (Baytril), an antibiotic (rare)

Antibiotic Choices

 

Blood in Stools

Gastrointestinal bleeding

Regulation of Waste Product Imbalances

 

Blood in Vomit

Gastrointestinal bleeding

Regulation of Waste Product Imbalances

Mouth ulcers

Regulation of Waste Product Imbalances

 

Blood in Urine

Urinary tract infection

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Issues

Hypertension

All About Hypertension

Urine sample obtained via cystocentesis

N/A

 

Body Odour

Body odour

Regulation of Waste Product Imbalances

 

Bony Spine

Proteinuria

Proteinuria

Metabolic acidosis

All About Metabolic Acidosis

 

Breathlessness

Metabolic acidosis

All About Metabolic Acidosis

Anaemia

All About Anaemia

Low potassium levels

Potassium Imbalances

Fluid retention/build-up

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Issues

Heart problems

Congestive Heart Failure Treatments

 

Bumping into things (furniture, doors or walls etc.)

Blindness caused by hypertension

All About Hypertension

Blindness caused by use of enrofloxacin (Baytril) (rare)

Antibiotic Choices

 


C


 

Symptoms and Possible Causes

More Information and Possible Treatments

 

 

Cannot Lift Head

 

Low potassium levels

All About Potassium

Thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency

The Importance of B Vitamins

 

Circling

 

Stroke (usually caused by hypertension)

All About Hypertension

 

Coat Colour Change

 

Ill health

May improve as cat is stabilised

Sunbathing

Untreatable unless you ban sunbathing

 

Cold Leg, Especially a Back Leg

 

Arterial thromboembolism (heart problem)

Arterial Thromboembolism Treatments

 

Congestion

 

Dehydration

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Imbalances

Side effect of cyproheptadine (longterm use)

Persuading Your Cat to Eat

Dental problems

Dental Problems Treatments

Respiratory tract infection

N/A

 

Constantly Hungry

 

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism Treatments

 

Constipation

 

Constipation

All About Constipation

Low potassium levels

Potassium Imbalances

Calcium imbalances

Regulation of Minerals

Side effect of phosphorus binders

The Importance of Phosphorus Control

Side effect of iron supplements

All About Anaemia

 

 

Coughing

 

Fluid retention/build-up

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Issues

Heart problems

Congestive Heart Failure Treatments

 

Cracked Paw Pads

 

Dehydration

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Imbalances

 

Crackling Skin

 

Air in the subcutaneous fluids line

Subcutaneous Fluids Tips

Fluid retention/build-up

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Issues

Heart problems

Congestive Heart Failure Treatments

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis Treatments

 

Crashing

 

Crashing

Intravenous Fluid Therapy

 

Craving Ice or Snow

 

Anaemia

All About Anaemia

 


D


Symptom and Possible Causes

More Information and Possible Treatments

 

 

Dark Stools

 

Gastrointestinal bleeding

Regulation of Waste Product Imbalances

Side effect of iron supplements

All About Anaemia

 

Defecating Outside Litter Tray

 

Constipation

All About Constipation

Cognitive dysfunction

Cognitive dysfunction 

 

Dehydration

 

Dehydration

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Imbalances

 

Detached Retinas

 

Hypertension

All About Hypertension

 

Diarrhoea

 

Sudden change of food

Introducing New Foods

Use of potassium supplements

Potassium Imbalances

Use of certain antibiotics

Use of antibiotics

Overflow incontinence due to constipation

All About Constipation

Overtreating constipation

All About Constipation

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism Treatments

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Which Foods to Feed

 

Dilated Pupils

 

Hypertension

All About Hypertension

 

Drooling

 

Gastric hyperacidity

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

Mouth ulcers

Regulation of Waste Product Imbalances

Dental problems

Dental Problems Treatments

Side effect of capromorelin (Entyce)

Persuading Your Cat to Eat

Side effect of Cerenia

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

 

 

Dry Stools

 

Constipation

All About Constipation

 

Dull Coat and Dandruff

Dehydration

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Imbalances

Lack of essential fatty acids

Essential Fatty Acids Supplementation

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism Treatments

Protein deficiency

The Downsides of Low Protein

 


E


 

Symptom and Possible Causes More Information and Possible Treatments
   
Eating Grass  
Gastric hyperacidity Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting
 
Eating Litter  
Anaemia All About Anaemia
Calcium Imbalances

Regulation of Minerals

 
Eating Ice or Snow  
Anaemia All About Anaemia
 
Enlarged Pupils

Hypertension

All About Hypertension

 


F


 

Symptom and Possible Causes

More Information and Possible Treatments

 

 

Fast Breathing

 

Metabolic acidosis

All About Metabolic Acidosis

Anaemia

All About Anaemia

Low potassium levels

Potassium Imbalances

Fluid retention/build-up

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Issues

Heart problems

Congestive Heart Failure Treatments

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis Treatments

Constipation

All About Constipation

 

Fast Heart Rate

 

Anaemia

All About Anaemia

 

Feeling Cold

 

Anaemia

All About Anaemia

Uraemic hypothermia

Keeping your cat warm

 

Feeling "Squishy"

 

Air in the subcutaneous fluids line

Subcutaneous Fluids Tips

Fluid retention/build-up

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Issues

Heart problems

Congestive Heart Failure Treatments

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis Treatments

 

 

Feeling Warm or Hot

 

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism Treatments

 

Foamy Urine

 

Proteinuria

Proteinuria

 

"Forgetting" Hind Legs

 

High phosphorus levels

The Importance of Phosphorus Control

 

Fur Loss

 

Ill health

May improve as cat is stabilised

 

Fur Loss From Pulling Out Hair

 

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism Treatments

 

Fur Loss Around Neck

 

Food allergies

Which Foods to Feed

 


G


 

Symptom and Possible Causes

More Information and Possible Treatments

 

 

Grinding Teeth

 

Gastric hyperacidity

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

Dehydration

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Imbalances

Dental problems

Dental Problems Treatments

Osteodystrophy ("rubber jaw")

Secondary Hyperparathyroidism Treatments

 

Gurgling Stomach

 

Gastric hyperacidity

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

 


H


 

Symptom and Possible Causes

More Information and Possible Treatments

 

 

Hair Colour Change

 

Ill health

May improve as cat is stabilised

Sunbathing

Untreatable unless you ban sunbathing

 

Hair Loss

 

Ill health

May improve as cat is stabilised

 

Hair Loss From Pulling Out Hair

 

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism Treatments

 

Hair Loss Around Neck

 

Food allergies

Which Foods to Feed

 

Head Hanging Down

 

Low potassium levels

All About Potassium

Thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency

The Importance of B Vitamins

 

Head Pressing

 

Hypertension

All About Hypertension

 

Head Tilt

 

Stroke (usually caused by hypertension)

All About Hypertension

Ear infection

Ask your vet about treatment options

 

Heavy Breathing

 

Metabolic acidosis

All About Metabolic Acidosis

Anaemia

All About Anaemia

Low potassium levels

Potassium Imbalances

Fluid retention/build-up

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Issues

Heart problems

Congestive Heart Failure Treatments

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis Treatments

 

Hiding

 

Feeling ill

May improve as cat is stabilised

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis Treatments

 

Hoarseness

 

Gastric hyperacidity

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

Low potassium levels

Potassium Imbalances

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism Treatments

Intubation during anaesthesia

Should improve within a day or two with no treatment

 

Hot and/or Red Ears

 

Hypertension

All About Hypertension

Food allergies

Which Foods to Feed

 

Hovering Over Water Bowl

 

Gastric hyperacidity

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

Dehydration

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Imbalances

 

Howling

 

Uraemia (high toxin levels)

Regulation of Waste Product Imbalances

Cognitive dysfunction (senility)

Cognitive dysfunction 

Side effect of cyproheptadine (longterm use)

Persuading Your Cat to Eat

Dehydration

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Imbalances

Side effect of mirtazapine

Persuading Your Cat to Eat

Side effect of metoclopramide (rare)

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

Arthritis

Arthritis Treatments

Side effect of anabolic steroids

Use of Anabolic Steroids

 

Howling, Especially at Night

 

Hypertension

All About Hypertension

Cognitive dysfunction (senility)

Cognitive dysfunction 

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism Treatments

Deafness

Untreatable

 

Hunched Over Water Bowl

 

Dehydration

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Imbalances

Gastric hyperacidity

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

 


I


Symptom and Possible Causes

More Information and Possible Treatments

 

 

Inability to Hold Up Head

 

Low potassium levels

All About Potassium

Thiamine (Vitamin B1) deficiency

The Importance of B Vitamins

 

Inappropriate Elimination

 

Inappropriate elimination

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Problems

Incontinence

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Problems

Urinary tract infection

Kidney Infections and Urinary Tract Infections

Kidney infection

Kidney Infections and Urinary Tract Infections

Cognitive dysfunction

Cognitive dysfunction 

Diabetes

Diabetes Treatments

Constipation

All About Constipation

 

Incontinence

 

Incontinence

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Problems

Inappropriate elimination

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Problems

Urinary  tract infection

Kidney Infections and Urinary Tract Infections

Kidney infection

Kidney Infections and Urinary Tract Infections

Diabetes

Diabetes Treatments

 

Increased Appetite

 

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism Treatments

Seizures

Treatment depends upon cause - consider hypertension first

Diabetes

Diabetes Treatments

 

Increased Drinking

 

Dehydration

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Imbalances

Kidney infection

Kidney Infections and Urinary Tract Infections

Hypercalcaemia (high calcium levels)

Regulation of Minerals

Gastric hyperacidity

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

 

Increased Urination

 

Kidney infection

Kidney Infections and Urinary Tract Infections

Hypercalcaemia (high calcium levels)

Regulation of Minerals

Fluid therapy

Fluid Therapy

 

Increased Urination at Night

 

Low potassium levels

Potassium Imbalances

Side effect of calcitriol

Use of Calcitriol for Secondary Hyperparathyroidisml

 

Itching

 

Uraemia (high toxin levels)

Regulation of Waste Product Imbalances

High phosphorus levels

The Importance of Phosphorus Control

Vitamin B6 deficiency

The Importance of B Vitamins

Lack of essential fatty acids

Essential Fatty Acids Supplementation

Side effect of methimazole for hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism Treatments

 

Itching (May Also Pull Out Hair)

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism Treatments

 


J


Symptom and Possible Causes

More Information and Possible Treatments

 

 

Jerking

 

Uraemia (high toxin levels)

Waste Product Regulation

Low potassium levels

Potassium Imbalances

High potassium levels

Potassium Imbalances

Hypertension

All About Hypertension

High phosphorus levels

The Importance of Phosphorus Control

Vitamin B6 deficiency

The Importance of B Vitamins

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism Treatments

Metabolic acidosis

All About Metabolic Acidosis

Side effect of metoclopramide (rare)

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

 

 

Jerking, Especially Head

 

Calcium imbalances

Regulation of Minerals

 

 

Jerking During Subcutaneous Fluids

Type of fluid used e.g. Normosol

Subcutaneous Fluids Tips

Using cold fluids

Subcutaneous Fluids Tips

 

 

 


K


Symptom and Possible Causes

More Information and Possible Treatments

 

 

Keeping Close to You

Feeling ill

May improve as cat is stabilised

 

 

"Knuckling"

High phosphorus levels

The Importance of Phosphorus Control

 


L


Symptom and Possible Causes

More Information and Possible Treatments

 

 

Lack of Co-ordination in the Limbs

High phosphorus levels

The Importance of Phosphorus Control

 

 

Lethargy

 

Anaemia

All About Anaemia

Hypertension

All About Hypertension

Low potassium levels

Potassium Imbalances

High potassium levels

Potassium Imbalances

Fluid retention/build-up

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Issues

Side effect of capromorelin (Entyce)

Persuading Your Cat to Eat

Heart problems

Congestive Heart Failure Treatments

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis Treatments

 

 

Lethargy After Subcutaneous Fluids

Fluid retention/build-up

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Issues

Heart problems

Congestive Heart Failure Treatments

 

 

Licking Concrete

Anaemia

All About Anaemia

Calcium Imbalances

Regulation of Minerals

 

 

Licking Food, Then Walking Away

Gastric hyperacidity

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

Mouth ulcers

Regulation of Waste Product Imbalances

 

 

Licking Ice or Snow

Anaemia

All About Anaemia

Calcium Imbalances

Regulation of Minerals

 

 

Limping

Arterial thromboembolism (heart problem)

Arterial Thromboembolism Treatments

 

 

Lip Licking or Lipsmacking

Gastric hyperacidity

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

Anaemia

All About Anaemia

Side effect of capromorelin (Entyce)

Persuading Your Cat to Eat

Dehydration

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Imbalances

Side effect of metoclopramide (rare)

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

 

 

Litter Eating

 

Anaemia

All About Anaemia

Calcium Imbalances

Regulation of Minerals

 

 

Litter Sticking to Feet

 

Dehydration

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Imbalances

 

 

Loss of Appetite

 

Dehydration

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Imbalances

Uraemia (high toxin levels)

Waste Product Regulation

High phosphorus levels

The Importance of Phosphorus Control

Anaemia

All About Anaemia

Metabolic acidosis

All About Metabolic Acidosis

Hypertension

All About Hypertension

Mouth ulcers

Regulation of Waste Product Imbalances

Low potassium levels

Potassium Imbalances

Nausea or gastric hyperacidity

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

Alteration of sense of smell

Persuading Your Cat to eat - Warming the food

Dental problems

Dental Problems Treatments

Fluid retention or build-up

Fluid and Urinary Issues Treatments

Use of certain antibiotics

Antibiotic Choices

Constipation

All About Constipation

Side effect of methimazole for hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism Treatments

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis Treatments

 

 

Loss of Hair

 

Ill health

May improve as cat is stabilised

 

 

Loss of Meow

 

Gastric hyperacidity

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

Low potassium levels

Potassium Imbalances

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism Treatments

Intubation during anaesthesia

Should improve within a day or two with no treatment

 

 

Loss of Sight

 

Hypertension

All About Hypertension

Use of enrofloxacin (Baytril), an antibiotic (rare)

Antibiotic Choices

 

 

Low Temperature

 

Anaemia

All About Anaemia

Calcium imbalances

Regulation of Minerals

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis Treatments

Heart problems

Heart Problems Treatments

 

 

Lying in the Litterbox

 

Urinary tract infection

Kidney Infections and Urinary Tract Infections

Constipation

All About Constipation

Seeking comfort

Seeking comfort

 


M


Symptom and Possible Causes

More Information and Possible Treatments

 

 

Meatloaf Position

 

Crashing

Intravenous Fluid Therapy

Gastric hyperacidity

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

 

 

Mouth Ulcers

 

Mouth ulcers

Regulation of Waste Product Imbalances

Metabolic acidosis

All About Metabolic Acidosis

 

 

Muscle Wasting, Especially in Back Legs

Metabolic acidosis

All About Metabolic Acidosis

 


N


Symptom and Possible Causes

More Information and Possible Treatments

 

 

Nasal Discharge

 

Fluid retention/build-up

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Issues

Heart problems

Congestive Heart Failure Treatments

 

 

Nausea

 

Uraemia (high toxin levels)

Regulation of Waste Product Imbalances

Nausea

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

High phosphorus levels

The Importance of Phosphorus Control

Metabolic acidosis

All About Metabolic Acidosis

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis Treatments

Anaemia

All About Anaemia

 

 

Nosebleeds

 

Hypertension

All About Hypertension

 

 

Not Drinking

 

Dehydration

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Imbalances

Crashing

Intravenous Fluid Therapy

 

 

Not Urinating or Reduced Urination

 

Urinary tract infection

Kidney Infections and Urinary Tract Infections

Kidney infection

Kidney Infections and Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary tract blockage

Other Illnesses

Kidney stones

Kidney Stones Treatments

Acute kidney injury

Acute Kidney Injury Treatments

Side effect of cyproheptadine

Persuading Your Cat to Eat

End stage renal disease

End stage renal disease

Diabetes

Diabetes Treatments

 


O


Symptom and Possible Causes

More Information and Possible Treatments

 

 

Obsession with Water

 

Gastric hyperacidity

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

Dehydration

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Imbalances

 

 

Open Mouth Breathing

 

Fluid retention/build-up

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Issues

Heart problems

Congestive Heart Failure Treatments

 


P


Symptom and Possible Causes

More Information and Possible Treatments

 

 

Pacing

 

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism Treatments

Hypertension

All About Hypertension

Pain

Use of Painkillers

Side effect of metoclopramide (rare)

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

Side effect of cyproheptadine (longterm use)

Persuading Your Cat to Eat

Side effect of mirtazapine

Persuading Your Cat to Eat

 

 

Pale Nose, Gums or Eyelids

 

Anaemia

All About Anaemia

 

 

Pawing at the Mouth

 

Mouth ulcers

Regulation of Waste Product Imbalances

Dental problems

Dental Problem Treatments

Feline orofacial pain syndrome (FOPS)

Painkillers and anti-convulsant medication

 

 

Plantigrade Stance

 

Low potassium levels

Potassium Imbalances

High phosphorus levels

The Importance of Phosphorus Control

Diabetic neuropathy

Diabetic Treatments

 

 

Playing with Water Bowl

 

Gastric hyperacidity

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

Dehydration

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Imbalances

 

 

Pooping Outside the Litter Tray

 

Constipation

All About Constipation

Cognitive dysfunction

Cognitive dysfunction 

 

 

Pulling Out Hair

 

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism Treatments

 

 

Purring

 

Contentment

Just enjoy!

Pain or discomfort

Use of Painkillers

 


R


Symptom and Possible Causes

More Information and Possible Treatments

 

 

Red and/or Hot Ears

 

Hypertension

All About Hypertension

Food allergies

Which Foods to Feed

 

 

Reduced Urination

 

Urinary tract infection

Kidney Infections and Urinary Tract Infections

Kidney infection

Kidney Infections and Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary tract blockage

Other Illnesses

Kidney stones

Kidney Stones Treatments

Acute kidney injury

Acute Kidney Injury Treatments

Side effect of cyproheptadine

Persuading Your Cat to Eat

Diabetes

Diabetes Treatments

End stage renal disease

End stage renal disease

 

 

Restlessness

 

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism Treatments

Hypertension

All About Hypertension

Pain

Use of Painkillers

Side effect of metoclopramide (rare)

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

Side effect of cyproheptadine (longterm use)

Persuading Your Cat to Eat

Side effect of mirtazapine

Persuading Your Cat to Eat

 

 

Retinal Changes

 

Hypertension

All About Hypertension

 

 

"Rubber Jaw"

 

Osteodystrophy

Secondary Hyperparathyroidism Treatments

 

 

Runny Eyes

 

Fluid retention/build-up

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Issues

Heart problems

Congestive Heart Failure Treatments

Dental problems

Dental Problem Treatments

 


S


Symptom and Possible Causes

More Information and Possible Treatments

 

 

Seeking Out Warm Places

 

Anaemia

All About Anaemia

Heart problems

Congestive Heart Failure Treatments

 

 

Seeking Out Cool Places

 

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism Treatments

 

 

Seizures

 

High potassium levels

All About Potassium

Hypertension

All About Hypertension

Calcium imbalances

Regulation of Minerals

Uraemia (high toxin levels)

Regulation of Waste Product Imbalances

Metabolic acidosis

All About Metabolic Acidosis

Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar)

Diabetes

Side effect of metoclopramide (rare)

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

 

 

Use of Advantage for fleas

Flea Treatments

 

 

Shaking

 

Uraemia (high toxin levels)

Waste Product Regulation

Low potassium levels

All About Potassium

High potassium levels

All About Potassium

Hypertension

All About Hypertension

High phosphorus levels

The Importance of Phosphorus Control

Vitamin B6 deficiency

The Importance of B Vitamins

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism Treatments

Metabolic acidosis

All About Metabolic Acidosis

Side effect of Cerenia

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

Side effect of metoclopramide (rare)

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

 

 

Shaking, Especially Head

 

Calcium imbalances

Regulation of Minerals

 

 

Shaking During Subcutaneous Fluids

Type of fluid used e.g. Normosol

Subcutaneous Fluids Tips

Using cold fluids

Subcutaneous Fluids Tips

 

 

Sitting Hunched Up

 

Gastric hyperacidity

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

Crashing

Intravenous Fluid Therapy

 

 

Sitting Up/Reluctance to Lie Down

 

Fluid retention/build-up

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Issues

Heart problems

Congestive Heart Failure Treatments

 

 

Skin Crackling

 

Air in the subcutaneous fluids line

Subcutaneous Fluids Tips

Fluid retention/build-up

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Issues

Heart problems

Congestive Heart Failure Treatments

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis Treatments

 

 

Sneezing

 

Dehydration

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Imbalances

Dental problems

Dental Problem Treatments

Side effect of cyproheptadine (longterm use)

Persuading Your Cat to Eat

Respiratory tract infection

N/A

 

 

Sniffing Food, Then Walking Away

 

Gastric hyperacidity

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

Mouth ulcers

Regulation of Waste Product Imbalances

 

 

"Spaced Out"

 

High potassium levels

All About High Potassium

Hypertension

All About Hypertension

Calcium imbalances

Regulation of Minerals

Uraemia (high toxin levels)

Regulation of Waste Product Imbalances

Metabolic acidosis

All About Metabolic Acidosis

Side effect of metoclopramide (rare)

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

 

 

"Squishy" Feeling

 

Air in the subcutaneous fluids line

Subcutaneous Fluids Tips

Fluid retention/build-up

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Issues

Heart problems

Congestive Heart Failure Treatments

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis Treatments

 

 

Staring into Space

 

High potassium levels

All About High Potassium

Hypertension

All About Hypertension

Calcium imbalances

Regulation of Minerals

Uraemia (high toxin levels)

Regulation of Waste Product Imbalances

Metabolic acidosis

All About Metabolic Acidosis

Side effect of metoclopramide (rare)

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

 

 

Stiff Neck

 

Low potassium levels

Potassium Imbalances

Thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency

The Importance of B Vitamins

 

 

Stilted Gait in the Front Legs

 

Low potassium levels

Potassium Imbalances

 

 

Stroke

 

Stroke (usually caused by hypertension)

All About Hypertension

 

 

Stuffy Nose

 

Dehydration

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Imbalances

Dental problems

Dental Problem Treatments

Side effect of cyproheptadine (longterm use)

Persuading Your Cat to Eat

Respiratory tract infection

N/A

 

 

Stumbling, Feet Crossing Over

 

High phosphorus levels

The Importance of Phosphorus Control

 

 

Sunken Eyes

 

Dehydration

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Imbalances

 

 

Swollen Legs, Face or Abdomen

 

Air in the subcutaneous fluids line

Subcutaneous Fluids Tips

Proteinuria

Proteinuria

Fluid retention/build-up

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Issues

Heart problems

Congestive Heart Failure Treatments

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis Treatments

Nephrotic syndrome

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Issues

 

 

Swollen Leg (One)

 

Subcutaneous fluids settling in leg

Subcutaneous Fluids Tips

 


T


Symptom and Possible Causes

More Information and Possible Treatments

 

 

Teeth Grinding

 

Gastric hyperacidity

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

Dehydration

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Imbalances

Dental problems

Dental Problem Treatments

Osteodystrophy ("rubber jaw")

Secondary Hyperparathyroidism Treatments

 

 

Trembling

 

Uraemia (high toxin levels)

Waste Product Regulation

Low potassium levels

Potassium Imbalances

High potassium levels

Potassium Imbalances

Hypertension

All About Hypertension

High phosphorus levels

The Importance of Phosphorus Control

Vitamin B6 deficiency

The Importance of B Vitamins

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism Treatments

Metabolic acidosis

All About Metabolic Acidosis

Side effect of Cerenia

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

Side effect of metoclopramide (rare)

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

 

 

Trembling, Especially Head

 

Calcium imbalances

Regulation of Minerals

 

 

Trembling During Subcutaneous Fluids

Type of fluid used e.g. Normosol

Subcutaneous Fluids Tips

Using cold fluids

Subcutaneous Fluids Tips

 

 

Trouble Breathing

 

Metabolic acidosis

All About Metabolic Acidosis

Anaemia

All About Anaemia

Low potassium levels

Potassium Imbalances

Fluid retention/build-up

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Issues

Heart problems

Congestive Heart Failure Treatments

 

 

Trouble Holding Up Head

 

Low potassium levels

Potassium Imbalances

Thiamine (Vitamin B1) deficiency

The Importance of B Vitamins

 

 

Trouble Walking

 

Low potassium levels

Potassium Imbalances

Anaemia

All About Anaemia

High phosphorus levels

The Importance of Phosphorus Control

Metabolic acidosis

All About Metabolic Acidosis

Diabetic neuropathy

Diabetes Treatments

Constipation

All About Constipation

Stroke (Hypertension)

All About Hypertension

Arthritis

Arthritis Treatments

 

 

 

Trouble Walking With One Leg Mainly Affected

Arterial thromboembolism (heart problem)

Arterial Thromboembolism Treatments

 

 

Twitching

 

Uraemia (high toxin levels)

Waste Product Regulation

Low potassium levels

Potassium Imbalances

High potassium levels

Potassium Imbalances

Hypertension

All About Hypertension

High phosphorus levels

The Importance of Phosphorus Control

Vitamin B6 deficiency

The Importance of B Vitamins

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism Treatments

Metabolic acidosis

All About Metabolic Acidosis

Side effect of Cerenia

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

Side effect of metoclopramide (rare)

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

 

 

Twitching, Especially Head

 

Calcium imbalances

Regulation of Minerals

 

 

Twitching During Subcutaneous Fluids

Type of fluid used e.g. Normosol

Subcutaneous Fluids Tips

Using cold fluids

Subcutaneous Fluids Tips

 


U


Symptom and Possible Causes

More Information and Possible Treatments

 

 

Uneven Pupils

 

Hypertension

All About Hypertension

 

 

Ungainly Walk

 

Constipation

All About Constipation

 

 

Urinary Tract Infections

 

Urinary tract infection

Kidney Infections and Urinary Tract Infections

 

 

Urinating Outside the Litter Tray

 

Urinary tract infection

Kidney Infections and Urinary Tract Infections

Cognitive dysfunction

Cognitive dysfunction 

Kidney tract infection

Kidney Infections and Urinary Tract Infections

 

 

Urinating in Inappropriate Places

 

Inappropriate elimination

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Problems

Incontinence

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Problems

Urinary tract infection

Kidney Infections and Urinary Tract Infections

Kidney infection

Kidney Infections and Urinary Tract Infections

Diabetes

Diabetes Treatments

Cognitive dysfunction

Cognitive dysfunction 

Constipation

All About Constipation

 


V


Symptom and Possible Causes

More Information and Possible Treatments

 

 

Visiting Litter Tray More Often

 

Urinary tract infection

Kidney Infections and Urinary Tract Infections

 

 

Vomiting

 

Vomiting

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

Metabolic acidosis

All About Metabolic Acidosis

Side effect of capromorelin (Entyce)

Persuading Your Cat to Eat

Use of certain antibiotics

Antibiotic Choices

Dehydration

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Imbalances

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis Treatments

 

 

Vomiting After Drinking

 

Gastric hyperacidity

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

 

 

Vomiting After Subcutaneous Fluids

Type of fluid used e.g. Normosol

Subcutaneous Fluids Tips

 

 

Vomiting Before, During or After Using the Litter Tray

Constipation

All About Constipation

 

 

Vomiting Blood

 

Gastrointestinal bleeding

Regulation of Waste Product Imbalances

Mouth ulcers

Regulation of Waste Product Imbalances

 

 

Vomiting Clear Foam

 

Gastric hyperacidity

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

 

 

Vomiting "Coffee Grains"

 

Gastrointestinal bleeding

Regulation of Waste Product Imbalances

Mouth ulcers

Regulation of Waste Product Imbalances

 

 

Vomiting in the Mornings

 

Vomiting

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

 

 

 

 

Vomiting White Foam

 

Gastric hyperacidity

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

 

 

 


W


Symptom and Possible Causes

More Information and Possible Treatments

 

 

Walking Into Things (Furniture, Doors, Walls etc.)

Blindness (usually caused by hypertension)

All About Hypertension

Blindness (use of Baytril, an antibiotic (rare)

Antibiotic Choices

 

 

Walking on Hocks

 

Low potassium levels

Potassium Imbalances

High phosphorus levels

The Importance of Phosphorus Control

Diabetic neuropathy

Diabetic Treatments

 

 

Weakness

 

Low potassium levels

Potassium Imbalances

High phosphorus levels

The Importance of Phosphorus Control

Anaemia

All About Anaemia

Lack of food

Importance of Weight and Body Condition

 

 

Weakness in Back Legs

 

Low potassium levels

Potassium Imbalances

Anaemia

Anaemia Treatments

High phosphorus levels

The Importance of Phosphorus Control

Metabolic acidosis

All About Metabolic Acidosis

Diabetic neuropathy

Diabetes Treatments

Constipation

All About Constipation

Stroke (usually caused by hypertension)

All About Hypertension

Arthritis

Arthritis Treatments

 

 

Weakness in One Back Leg Only

Arterial thromboembolism (heart problem)

Arterial Thromboembolism Treatments

 

 

Weight Gain

 

Fluid retention/build-up

Regulation of Fluid and Urinary Issues

Heart problems

Congestive Heart Failure Treatments

Air in the fluids line

Subcutaneous Fluids Tips

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis Treatments

 

 

Weight Loss

 

Proteinuria

Proteinuria

Metabolic acidosis

All About Metabolic Acidosis

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism Treatments

Heart problems

Heart Treatments

Diabetes

Diabetes Treatments

High phosphorus levels

The Importance of Phosphorus Control

Protein deficiency

The Downsides of Low Protein

 

 

Wheezing

 

Anaemia

All About Anaemia

 

 

Wobbliness

 

Low potassium levels

Potassium Imbalances

High phosphorus levels

The Importance of Phosphorus Control

Anaemia

All About Anaemia

Lack of food

Importance of Weight and Body Condition

 

 

Wobbliness in Back Legs

 

Low potassium levels

Potassium Imbalances

Anaemia

All About Anaemia

High phosphorus levels

The Importance of Phosphorus Control

Metabolic acidosis

All About Metabolic Acidosis

Diabetic neuropathy

Diabetes Treatments

Constipation

All About Constipation

Stroke (Hypertension)

All About Hypertension

Arthritis

Arthritis Treatments

 

 

Wobbliness in One Back Leg Only

Arterial thromboembolism (heart problem)

Arterial Thromboembolism Treatments

 

 

 


Y


Symptom and Possible Causes

More Information and Possible Treatments

 

 

Yawning

 

Gastric hyperacidity

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

 

 

Yellow or Orange Urine

 

Use of B vitamin complex

The Importance of B Vitamins

 

 


Z


Symptom and Possible Causes

More Information and Possible Treatments

 

 

"Zoning Out"

 

High potassium levels

Potassium Imbalances

Hypertension

All About Hypertension

Calcium imbalances

Regulation of Minerals

Uraemia (high toxin levels)

Regulation of Waste Product Imbalances

Metabolic acidosis

All About Metabolic Acidosis

Side effect of metoclopramide (rare)

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

 

     

 

 

 

 

Back to Page Index 

This page last updated: 21 July 2020

Links on this page last checked: 22 May 2020

 

   

*****

 

TREATING YOUR CAT WITHOUT VETERINARY ADVICE CAN BE EXTREMELY DANGEROUS.

 

I have tried very hard to ensure that the information provided in this website is accurate, but I am NOT a vet, just an ordinary person who has lived through CKD with three cats. This website is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to be used to diagnose or treat any cat. Before trying any of the treatments described herein, you MUST consult a qualified veterinarian and obtain professional advice on the correct regimen for your cat and his or her particular requirements; and you should only use any treatments described here with the full knowledge and approval of your vet. No responsibility can be accepted.

 

If your cat appears to be in pain or distress, do not waste time on the internet, contact your vet immediately.

 

*****

Copyright © Tanya's Feline CKD Website 2000-2020. All rights reserved.

 

This site was created using Microsoft software, and therefore it is best viewed in Internet Explorer. I know it doesn't always display too well in other browsers, but I'm not an IT expert so I'm afraid I don't know how to change that. I would love it to display perfectly everywhere, but my focus is on making the information available. When I get time, I'll try to improve how it displays in other browsers.

 

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