When does a cat's creatinine increase? - briefly
A cat's creatinine levels typically increase when kidney function is impaired, often due to conditions like chronic kidney disease, dehydration, or urinary obstruction.
When does a cat's creatinine increase? - in detail
A cat's creatinine levels can increase due to various physiological and pathological conditions, primarily related to kidney function. Creatinine is a waste product generated from the normal breakdown of muscle tissue, and it is typically filtered out of the blood by the kidneys and excreted in urine. When kidney function is impaired, creatinine accumulates in the bloodstream, leading to elevated levels. Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common cause of increased creatinine in cats, often resulting from dehydration, toxin exposure, infections, or urinary obstructions. Chronic kidney disease (CKD), a progressive condition more common in older cats, also leads to persistent creatinine elevation as the kidneys lose their ability to filter waste effectively. Dehydration, even without significant kidney damage, can cause a temporary rise in creatinine due to reduced blood flow to the kidneys and impaired filtration. Certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or aminoglycosides, can also contribute to kidney damage and elevated creatinine levels. Additionally, conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or hyperthyroidism may indirectly affect kidney function, leading to increased creatinine. In some cases, severe muscle injury or breakdown (rhabdomyolysis) can cause a spike in creatinine due to the release of muscle-derived creatinine into the bloodstream. It is essential to monitor creatinine levels through blood tests, as elevated levels often indicate underlying health issues that require prompt veterinary attention and management.