What does a cat have in its kidneys? - briefly
A cat’s kidneys contain nephrons, which filter waste and regulate fluids and electrolytes in the body.
What does a cat have in its kidneys? - in detail
A cat’s kidneys are vital organs responsible for filtering blood, removing waste products, and maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance. Structurally, each kidney contains millions of nephrons, the functional units that perform filtration. Within the nephrons, the glomerulus filters blood, while the renal tubules reabsorb essential substances and excrete waste. Cats’ kidneys are particularly efficient at concentrating urine, an adaptation to their evolutionary origins in arid environments. The kidneys also regulate blood pressure through the renin-angiotensin system and produce erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates red blood cell production. In older cats, kidney function may decline, leading to conditions like chronic kidney disease, which is common in felines. Proper hydration and a balanced diet are crucial for maintaining kidney health in cats.