Cat kidney disease treatment in Dubai
Chronic kidney disease affects about 3 in 10 cats over the age of 10. It cannot be cured, but it can be slowed, and many cats live well for years after diagnosis. It is found with a blood test and a urine test. The exam costs AED 120.
- Who gets itMostly cats over 7 years
- DiagnosisBlood test and urine test
- Main treatmentKidney diet and hydration
- RechecksEvery 3 to 6 months
01Overview
What failing kidneys do, and when it shows
Kidneys filter waste from the blood, hold on to water and keep salts in balance. In chronic kidney disease the filtering units are lost over months or years and do not grow back. A cat shows nothing until about two-thirds of kidney function has gone. The first signs are a wetter litter tray and a water bowl that empties faster.
Later signs are weight loss, a dull coat, poor appetite, vomiting and bad breath. The cause is usually never found. Known causes include kidney infections, stones, toxins such as lilies, high blood pressure and polycystic kidney disease, which is inherited in Persian and related breeds.
Blood and urine are tested in our lab, and ultrasound shows the size and shape of the kidneys. The most effective long-term treatment is a kidney diet, set up through a diet plan. Test costs are given to you before the samples are taken.
02On the day
What happens at the clinic
Bring a list of everything your cat eats, including treats, and any earlier blood results.
- 1
History and examination
About 30 minutesThe vet weighs your cat and compares the figure with past visits. Muscle over the spine, hydration, the mouth, and the size of the kidneys are checked by hand. Small, lumpy kidneys point to chronic disease. Large ones suggest cysts, infection or a blockage.
- 2
Blood test
Creatinine and urea rise when the kidneys filter poorly. Phosphorus, potassium and the red cell count show the knock-on effects. SDMA is an earlier marker, and the vet may add it when creatinine is borderline. Results from our lab are usually ready during the visit.
- 3
Urine test
Dilute urine together with raised creatinine confirms that the kidneys are the problem. The sample is also checked for protein and infection. Protein loss in urine speeds the disease and can be treated.
- 4
Blood pressure and scan
High blood pressure is common with kidney disease and can damage the eyes. Ask about a blood pressure check. Ultrasound looks for cysts, stones and blocked ureters.
- 5
Staging and the plan
Results are placed on the international IRIS scale, from stage 1 to stage 4. The stage decides the treatment: diet, phosphate control, anti-sickness medicine, blood pressure medicine or fluids. The vet explains what your cat's stage means in plain terms.
- 6
If your cat is in crisis
A cat that has stopped eating and is dehydrated is admitted to the ward for a drip, usually for 2 to 4 days. Blood values are repeated to see what the kidneys can recover.
03In Dubai
Things that are different in Dubai
Persians and their relatives
Persian, Exotic, Himalayan and British Shorthair cats are among the most popular breeds here. They carry a higher risk of polycystic kidney disease. One ultrasound scan in a young adult cat can show whether cysts are present.
Dry air, dry food
Indoor cats in Dubai live in air conditioning all year and most eat only dry food. A kidney cat needs every millilitre. Offer wet food, several wide bowls away from the litter tray, and a fountain if your cat likes running water.
Summer dehydration
A kidney cat cannot concentrate its urine, so it dries out fast. A failed air conditioner or a day without water can tip a stable cat into crisis. Ask your sitter to check the bowls twice a day.
Long summer trips
Many owners travel for 4 to 8 weeks. Book a blood test 2 weeks before you leave, so medication can be adjusted. A cat on daily treatment is safer in medical boarding than alone with a daily visit.
Lilies in bouquets
Lilies are in most gift bouquets sold here. Every part of the plant, including the pollen, causes sudden kidney failure in cats. If your cat has chewed or brushed against one, come in the same day.
04Do not wait
Call us the same day if you see any of these
In a cat already diagnosed with kidney disease, or any cat over 7.
Phone answered 24 hours
- No food for 24 hours
- Vomiting more than twice in a day
- Sudden blindness, wide pupils or bumping into furniture
- Wobbly back legs, or a head that hangs down towards the chest
- Straining in the litter tray, or no urine at all
- Very sleepy, cold to touch, or breath that smells of ammonia
05Afterwards
Living with a kidney cat
A kidney diet is restricted in phosphorus and has moderate, high-quality protein. It is the treatment with the strongest evidence for longer survival. Change over slowly, across 2 to 4 weeks, and warm wet food slightly to raise the smell.
A cat that eats some kidney food is better off than a cat that refuses it and eats nothing. Tell us if the change is not working. There are several brands and textures.
- Weigh your cat every 2 weeks on the same scale and write it down
- Never give human painkillers. Several damage kidneys
- Give medicines at the same times each day, and tell us if you cannot get them in
- Recheck blood, urine and blood pressure every 3 to 6 months
- Keep the litter tray on the same floor as the bed and the water
06From the clinic
From the clinic
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A grey cat in a flowered collar takes liquid medicine from a syringe held by gloved hands
07Owners say
Google reviews that mention this
Christine Rizzatoa month ago The vet and their assistant came to my home, arrived right on time, and were both professional and friendly with me and my cats. They trimmed their nails, gave them their vaccinations, and provided all the necessary care. I was especially impressed by how gentle and patient they were with my frightened cats. 
Aaliyah Munshi3 months ago I've had both my cats spayed and neutered here and have also used their grooming services. The prices are reasonable, and the team is incredibly friendly, professional, and caring. 
Maas Hewagama4 months ago We took Sawyer to Petflix when he got his hot spot. Dr. Abdalla had lots of patience with our boy, especially since he was so afraid as it was his first time there. They were able to do a thorough assessment of his allergies. We visited again two weeks later for his check-up, and our boy also got groomed. 
ROS ROSHNI3 months ago I have been visiting Petflix Vet Clinic for around 1 and a half years. Last month, my dog Coco had an ear infection, so we visited the clinic again. The doctors provided excellent treatment and care, and now she is completely fine. The only thing is that the fees and some additional charges are a little high. 
Joyce Lyn Dela Gracia3 months ago I bring my cat, Vanilla, there for his annual vaccinations and grooming. Christine is always quick to respond, whether through WhatsApp or their Facebook page. 
irina skripka4 months ago Was very satisfied with home visit for my cat vaccinations, she loved them from first sight. 
CHANTELL TOLENTINO2 months ago Dr. Abdallah took very good care of my cat Bella and explained everything clearly, which made me feel comfortable and reassured. 
Rana Abdelmoti8 months ago Dr. Abdalla carefully reviewed my cat's full medical history and provided valuable insights and clear explanations about her condition. Despite how aggressive my cat can be, he avoided sedation, handled her with great care, gave her treats, and managed her in a calm and professional manner. 4.7 / 5 · on Google, from 528 reviews. Excerpts from our Google Maps reviews. Read all reviews on Google
08Questions
Questions about kidney disease in cats
How long can a cat live with kidney disease?
My old cat is drinking a lot more water. Is it her kidneys?
What is the SDMA test, and does my cat need it?
Does my cat have to eat the prescription kidney food for ever?
Can kidney disease in cats be reversed?
09Related