How does a cat die from polycystic disease? - briefly
Polycystic kidney disease in cats leads to progressive kidney failure as fluid-filled cysts replace functional kidney tissue, ultimately causing the organs to shut down and resulting in death.
How does a cat die from polycystic disease? - in detail
Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) in cats is a genetic disorder characterized by the development of multiple fluid-filled cysts in the kidneys. These cysts gradually enlarge over time, replacing healthy kidney tissue and impairing renal function. As the disease progresses, the kidneys lose their ability to filter waste products and maintain electrolyte balance, leading to chronic kidney failure. In the advanced stages, the cat experiences symptoms such as increased thirst and urination, weight loss, vomiting, lethargy, and poor appetite. The accumulation of toxins in the bloodstream, known as uremia, causes systemic damage to other organs. Eventually, the kidneys fail completely, resulting in severe dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and the inability to excrete waste products. This cascade of physiological failures leads to the cat's death, often due to complications such as heart failure, severe infections, or the inability to sustain vital bodily functions. The progression of PKD can vary, but without intervention, it inevitably leads to fatal kidney failure.