Kidney Disease in Cats and the SDMA Test

Chronic kidney disease is one of the most common problems in older cats. It cannot be cured, but when we find it early, many cats live well for many years.

What is chronic kidney disease?

The kidneys clean waste out of the blood and keep the right amount of water in the body. In chronic kidney disease, the kidneys slowly lose their function over months or years.

The hard part is that cats hide it very well. Often the signs only show when the disease is already advanced.

The signs

• Drinking more water
• Peeing more. You may see bigger clumps in the litter tray.
• Weight loss
• Eating less, or being fussy with food
• Vomiting
• A coat that does not look as good as before
• Bad breath
• Low energy and more sleeping

If your cat shows any of these, book an appointment for a check.

What is the SDMA test?

SDMA is a substance in the blood that tells us how well the kidneys are working. The important thing is that it can show changes earlier than the older test, creatinine.

This means we can start treatment sooner, before your cat shows signs, and protect the kidneys for longer.

Which cats are most at risk?

The disease becomes more common as cats get older, especially after 10 years of age. But it can also appear in younger cats. Some breeds, such as Persians, have a higher risk of inherited kidney problems. Cats that drink very little or eat only dry food also need a little extra attention.

How it is diagnosed

• Blood tests, including SDMA and creatinine
• A urine test, to see how well the kidneys concentrate urine
• Blood pressure measurement, because high blood pressure is common in cats with kidney problems
• Ultrasound, when needed

Vets often describe the disease in stages. The stage helps us choose the right treatment for your cat.

Why we measure blood pressure

High blood pressure is common in cats with kidney disease, and you usually cannot see it from the outside. If it is not controlled, it can put more strain on the kidneys and damage the heart, brain and eyes. Some cats suddenly lose their sight because of it. The measurement is simple, done at the clinic and does not hurt.

How we manage it

• A special kidney diet. This is one of the most important steps.
• Plenty of water. Wet food, a water fountain and bowls in different places around the house help your cat drink more.
• Blood pressure control, if it is high.
• Treatment for nausea, so your cat eats better.
• Regular check-ups, so we can adjust treatment as needed.

Life at home

Many cats with kidney disease live a normal, quiet life. Keep an eye on how much your cat eats and drinks, weigh them when you can, and keep the litter tray clean so you notice changes in urine. If your cat stops eating or vomits often, bring them in. Change to a new food slowly, over one to two weeks, and not while your cat feels unwell, so your cat accepts it more easily.

Early diagnosis makes the difference

Kidney disease does not go back. But we can slow it down and keep your cat happy and comfortable. The earlier we find it, the more we can do.

This article is for information only and does not replace an examination by a vet. If you are worried about your pet, please contact us.