What blood test results indicate kidney failure in cats? - briefly
Certainly. A significant indicator of kidney failure in cats is an elevated level of creatinine and Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) in blood tests. Additionally, an increase in phosphorus levels may also suggest renal issues.
What blood test results indicate kidney failure in cats? - in detail
Blood tests play a crucial role in diagnosing and monitoring kidney failure in cats, as they provide valuable information about renal function and overall health. Several key parameters are typically evaluated:
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BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen): Elevated BUN levels often indicate kidney dysfunction or dehydration in cats. In chronic kidney disease, BUN levels may remain persistently high.
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Creatinine: An increase in creatinine levels is a more specific indicator of reduced glomerular filtration rate (GFR), which is a key function of the kidneys. Creatinine levels rise as kidney function declines.
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Phosphorus: Hyperphosphatemia, or elevated phosphorus levels, can occur in cats with kidney failure due to decreased excretion by the kidneys. High phosphorus levels can contribute to further kidney damage and bone disease.
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Calcium: Hypocalcemia (low calcium levels) is common in cats with advanced kidney disease, often resulting from concurrent hyperphosphatemia and reduced production of active vitamin D by the diseased kidneys.
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Potassium: While potassium levels may initially be normal or slightly elevated, severely ill cats can develop hypokalemia (low potassium) due to various factors including dehydration and loss of potassium through vomiting and diarrhea.
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Bicarbonate: Low bicarbonate levels indicate metabolic acidosis, which is frequently associated with Kidney Disease" rel="bookmark">chronic kidney disease in cats. This reflects the kidneys' reduced ability to excrete acids effectively.
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Complete Blood Count (CBC): Although not a direct measure of kidney function, a CBC can provide valuable information about overall health and potential complications. Anemia is common in cats with Kidney Disease" rel="bookmark">chronic kidney disease due to various factors including decreased production of erythropoietin by the diseased kidneys.
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SDMA (Symmetric Dimethylarginine): SDMA is a newer biomarker that has shown promise in early detection of kidney dysfunction. Unlike creatinine, SDMA levels rise earlier and more consistently with decreases in GFR, making it a potentially valuable tool for diagnosing kidney disease before significant damage occurs.
Regular monitoring of these blood parameters is essential for assessing the progression of kidney failure and adjusting treatment plans accordingly. Early detection and intervention are critical for improving the quality of life and longevity in cats with kidney disease.