Chronic Renal Failure or CRF is one of the most common age related illnesses in cats today. Chronic and progressive kidney failure is typically related to age, other illnesses and environment. Diet can play a part. CRF is always terminal, but with management of the disease, cats can live a quality life for many years after diagnosis.

The most obvious sign of CRF in a cat is excessive thirst, although there may be other symptoms, such as nausea, weight loss, constipation and a generally poor hair coat. Laboratory testing is required to make a definitive diagnosis. Lab results will also give the veterinarian a sense of how advanced the CRF is.

Diet and intravenous fluids are the most common therapies for cats with CRF. Dietary management means feeding a diet lower in protein, salt and phosphorous. Reducing these things will help the kidneys function better. A lower protein diet takes some of the burden off the kidneys for filtering waste, as protein molecules tend to be larger and create a heavier burden on the kidney. The kidneys are involved in electrolyte balance so the lower sodium and lower phosphorus allows the kidneys to maintain this balance more easily.

Intravenous fluid therapy helps keep the cat hydrated. Subcutaneous fluids can be administered at home by the owner and are often well tolerated by the cat. Being well hydrated allows the cat a general sense of well being. The fluids also flush the kidneys, ridding the body of built up toxins.

There are alternative healthcare treatments that may be helpful to a cat with CRF. There are many qualified holistic veterinarians who will be happy to consult with owners of CRF cats. Their specialized knowledge can guide owners towards the therapies that are best suited to their cat’s health needs and temperament. While many herbal remedies may be available over the counter and it is tempting to take the word of a trusted friend, it is not advisable to do so. Herbal remedies are a powerful medication and cats can react very strongly. Dosages and treatments should never be guessed at, but should be prescribed by a qualified veterinarian.

While CRF is considered a terminal disease, life can be considered terminal. It’s hard to hear that your cat’s days are numbered, but depending upon the severity of the disease, they may have many good years ahead of them. Managing CRF is less difficult than it sounds and the cat’s life doesn’t have to completely change. As knowledge and understanding of this disease progress, more and more cats are living longer and longer with their illness.