What does a nephrologist treat in cats? - briefly
A nephrologist specializes in diagnosing and managing kidney-related conditions in cats, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, and urinary tract disorders.
What does a nephrologist treat in cats? - in detail
A nephrologist specializing in feline medicine focuses on diagnosing and managing kidney-related disorders in cats. The kidneys are vital organs responsible for filtering waste products from the blood, regulating electrolyte balance, maintaining hydration, and controlling blood pressure. In cats, kidney disease is a common and often chronic condition, particularly in older felines. A nephrologist addresses acute kidney injury, which can result from toxins, infections, or trauma, and Kidney Disease" rel="bookmark">chronic kidney disease (CKD), a progressive condition characterized by gradual loss of kidney function over time. They also manage complications associated with kidney dysfunction, such as hypertension, anemia, electrolyte imbalances, and metabolic acidosis. Diagnostic tools employed by a nephrologist include blood tests to assess kidney function, urinalysis to evaluate urine concentration and detect abnormalities, imaging techniques like ultrasound to visualize kidney structure, and sometimes biopsies to determine the underlying cause of kidney damage. Treatment strategies may involve dietary modifications to reduce kidney workload, fluid therapy to maintain hydration, medications to control blood pressure or reduce protein loss in urine, and supportive care to manage symptoms. In advanced cases, a nephrologist may recommend dialysis or other specialized interventions. Early detection and proactive management are essential to slow disease progression and improve the quality of life for cats with kidney disorders.