Home » Diseases » In cats » Acute Kidney Injury, AKI (Acute Renal Failure)

Acute Kidney Injury, AKI (Acute Renal Failure) in cats

Occurrence: common
Location of illness: Abdomen/pelvis

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 17.02.2026

When to visit the vet?

Urgent see a veterinarian within 24 hours

If the condition worsens / symptoms persist, consult a veterinarian.

Definition

AcuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. kidney injury (AKI), also known as acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. renal failure, is a sudden loss of kidney function in cats, leading to a build-up of waste products in the blood and an imbalanceImbalance refers to an imbalance or disruption of normal function or composition in the body, which can lead to health problems. of fluids and electrolytesElectrolytes are minerals in the body that carry an electric charge and perform vital functions such as regulating fluid balance, acid-base balance, and nerve and muscle activity. The main electrolytes include sodium, potassium, chloride, and magnesium..

The most important facts at a glance

Acute renal failure (ARF) in cats is a sudden deterioration of kidney function that causes severe health problems. The kidneys normally filter blood, remove waste products, and regulate fluid and electrolyte balanceThe electrolyte balance refers to the balance of electrolytes in the body, which is essential for many physiological processes. Disturbances in the electrolyte balance can lead to serious health problems.. Causes of ARF can include toxins such as antifreeze, certain medications, and toxicToxic means "poisonous" and refers to substances that can have harmful effects on the body, including damage to organs, cells, or disruption of metabolic processes. plants. Infections like leptospirosis and reduced kidney blood flow due to Blood loss or dehydrationDehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in. This can lead to a number of problems, including headaches, Dizziness, and in extreme cases, renal failure or Cardiovascular collapse. can also cause ARF. Blockages in the urinary tract, such as Nephrolithiasis (kidney stones), also lead to kidney damage.

Symptoms include loss of appetite, Vomiting, increased drinking and urination, lethargy, and Weight loss. DiagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is made through physical examinations, blood tests, and urinalysis, supplemented by imaging techniques. Treatment aims to eliminate the cause and support kidney function, often through fluid therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. and medications. In severe cases, dialysisDialysis is a medical procedure that mimics the function of the kidneys by removing waste and excess water from the blood when the kidneys are no longer able to perform this task adequately. may be necessary. The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. depends on the cause and prompt treatment; early detection significantly improves the chances.

PreventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. measures include access to fresh water, a balanced diet, and regular veterinary check-ups. ProtectionProtection refers to safeguarding against diseases or harm. In veterinary medicine, this can include protecting animals through vaccinations, the use of parasite control products, or providing a safe environment. from toxicToxic means "poisonous" and refers to substances that can have harmful effects on the body, including damage to organs, cells, or disruption of metabolic processes. substances is also important. Research focuses on early detection through biomarkers and the regeneration of damaged tissue using stem cells. The development of new medications and the investigation of genetic predispositions are also important research fields.

Causes

The kidneys play a crucial role in cats’ bodies by filtering blood, removing waste products, and regulating fluid and electrolyte balanceThe electrolyte balance refers to the balance of electrolytes in the body, which is essential for many physiological processes. Disturbances in the electrolyte balance can lead to serious health problems.. In acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. renal failure, this ability is quickly and drastically impaired, which can lead to severe health problems.

One of the most common causes of acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. renal failure is exposureExposure refers to the Contact with or subjection to certain substances, environmental factors, or pathogens. In veterinary medicine, this can include Contact with toxins, allergens, or infectious agents that can cause health problems in dogs and cats. to toxins. Certain substances such as antifreeze (ethylene glycol), specific medications (e.g., non-steroidalNon-steroidal refers to medications or substances that are not steroids and often have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, or antipyretic effects. They are used in dogs and cats to treat Pain and Inflammatory conditions. anti-inflammatory drugsAnti-inflammatory drugs are medications that reduce inflammation. They can be divided into nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids and are used in dogs and cats to reduce Inflammatory conditions and Pain.), and toxicToxic means "poisonous" and refers to substances that can have harmful effects on the body, including damage to organs, cells, or disruption of metabolic processes. plants (e.g., lilies) can rapidly damage the kidneys. Infections, particularly bacterial infections like leptospirosis, can also cause acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. renal failure.

Another common problem that can lead to acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. renal failure is reduced blood flow to the kidneys. Causes for this could be severe Blood loss, dehydrationDehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in. This can lead to a number of problems, including headaches, Dizziness, and in extreme cases, renal failure or Cardiovascular collapse., or heart failure. If the kidneys do not receive sufficient blood flow, they cannot function properly, leading to acute renal failure.

Some cats may be affected by blockages in the urinary tract, such as Nephrolithiasis (kidney stones) or Tumors, which prevent normal urine flow. This leads to a backup of urine and can cause kidney damage.

Symptoms

Very common symptoms:

Common symptoms:

Rare symptoms:

The symptoms of acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. renal failure in cats can be subtle and worsen rapidly. Common signs include lethargy, loss of appetite, and Vomiting. Cats may also show signs of dehydrationDehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in. This can lead to a number of problems, including headaches, Dizziness, and in extreme cases, renal failure or Cardiovascular collapse., such as dry mucous membranes and decreased skin turgor.

Since the kidneys are no longer able to effectively remove waste products from the body, toxins can accumulate in the blood, which is known as uremiaUremia is a condition of blood poisoning caused by the increase of waste products, especially urea, that are normally excreted by the kidneys. It occurs when kidney function is severely impaired.. This can lead to neurological symptoms such as disorientation, weakness, or seizures.

In some cases, the cat may also show increased thirst (polydipsiaPolydipsia refers to an increased feeling of thirst and increased fluid intake. It can be a symptom of various diseases, including diabetes mellitus and kidney disease.) and more frequent urination (polyuriaPolyuria refers to a significantly increased urine output. It can be a symptom of various diseases, including diabetes mellitus, kidney disease, and hormonal disorders.), although in advanced stages, urine production may decrease. Weight loss and a poor general condition are also common observations.

Diagnosis

The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. renal failure requires a combination of clinical examination and diagnostic tests. A thorough physical examination can provide initialInitial means beginning or at the start. In medicine, it can refer to the first symptoms of a disease or the first phase of a treatment process. indications of dehydrationDehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in. This can lead to a number of problems, including headaches, Dizziness, and in extreme cases, renal failure or Cardiovascular collapse., Pallor, or other signs pointing to a kidney problem.

Blood tests are crucial to measure the concentrations of ureaUrea, also known as carbamide, is a waste product of protein metabolism in the body. It's formed in the liver and excreted by the kidneys in urine. The urea level in the blood indicates kidney function. and creatinineCreatinine is a waste product that results from the breakdown of creatine, a chemical compound that provides energy in the muscles. The concentration of creatinine in the blood and urine is an important indicator of kidney function., which are elevated in renal failure. Electrolyte disturbances, particularly an increase in phosphate and potassium, can also be detected.

A urinalysis provides valuable information about the cat’s urine status. In acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. renal failure, the urine may be diluted or contain abnormal amounts of proteinProteins are large molecules made up of amino acids and play an essential role in almost all biological processes. They are necessary for building body tissue, the function of the immune system, and as enzymes for metabolic reactions. and cells. Imaging techniques such as ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. can be used to detect structural abnormalities or blockages in the kidneys or urinary tract.

In some cases, it may be necessary to perform a kidney biopsyA biopsy is a medical procedure in which a small amount of tissue is removed from the body to be examined under a microscope for signs of disease. Biopsies can help diagnose cancer and other conditions. to determine the exact cause of the kidney damage and plan appropriate treatment.

Therapy

The treatment of acute renal failure in cats aims to eliminate the underlying cause and support kidney function. An important first step is intravenous fluid therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. to restore fluid balance and flush the kidneys.

Medications can be used to control symptoms and prevent complications. These include antiemeticsAntiemetics are medications used to prevent or treat Nausea and Vomiting. In dogs and cats, they are used in various situations, including after surgery, for motion sickness, or for certain conditions that cause Nausea. for Vomiting, medications to control blood pressure and electrolytesElectrolytes are minerals in the body that carry an electric charge and perform vital functions such as regulating fluid balance, acid-base balance, and nerve and muscle activity. The main electrolytes include sodium, potassium, chloride, and magnesium., and diuretics to promote urine production.

In severe cases, dialysis may be necessary to replace kidney function until the kidneys recover. This is a specialized procedure typically performed in specialized veterinary clinics.

Treatment is often supported by dietary adjustments to minimize the burden on the kidneys and ensure adequate nutrition. Special renal diets are often low in protein and phosphorusPhosphorus is a vital mineral found in bones and teeth, playing a central role in energy metabolism and DNA. A balanced phosphorus to calcium ratio is essential for the health of dogs and cats. and contain antioxidants to support kidney function.

Prognosis and follow-up care

The prognosis for acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. renal failure depends heavily on the cause, severity, and speed of treatment. Cats that are treated quickly, especially if the cause is reversible, often have a better prognosis.

In cases where kidney damage is severe or irreversible, the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. may be poorer, and long-term treatment may be required to maintain the cat’s quality of life. Some cats may recover completely, while others may develop chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. kidney disease.

Early detection and treatment are crucial for a better prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop., so it is important to seek veterinary help immediately at the first signs of kidney disease.

Prevention

To minimize the risk of acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. renal failure in cats, pet owners should ensure their cat always has access to fresh and clean drinking water. Adequate fluid intake is crucial to optimally support kidney function.

Additionally, it is important to carefully monitor the cat’s diet. A balanced and high-quality diet can help keep the kidneys healthy. It is advisable to choose a diet with appropriate proteinProteins are large molecules made up of amino acids and play an essential role in almost all biological processes. They are necessary for building body tissue, the function of the immune system, and as enzymes for metabolic reactions. and phosphorusPhosphorus is a vital mineral found in bones and teeth, playing a central role in energy metabolism and DNA. A balanced phosphorus to calcium ratio is essential for the health of dogs and cats. levels to avoid unnecessarily burdening the kidneys.

Regular veterinary check-ups are also important to monitor the cat’s general health and detect potential problems early. For example, blood and urine tests can be performed to check kidney function.

It is also advisable to protect the cat from potentially toxicToxic means "poisonous" and refers to substances that can have harmful effects on the body, including damage to organs, cells, or disruption of metabolic processes. substances. These include certain plants, medications, and cleaning products that can damage the kidneys. A safe living environment, free from hazards, significantly contributes to reducing the risk of acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. renal failure.

These measures can promote the cat’s well-being and reduce the risk of acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. kidney failureRenal failure is a condition in which the kidneys can no longer adequately perform their function of filtering and excreting waste products from the blood. It can be acute or chronic and requires immediate medical treatment..

Outlook on current research

Acute renal failure (ARF) in cats is a serious health problem that is receiving increasing attention in veterinary medicine. Current research focuses on early detection and prevention of this disease. Scientists are developing new biomarkers to help diagnose ARF earlier, before irreversible damage occurs. These biomarkers could make it possible to detect the disease at a stage where therapeutic interventions are still effective, which could significantly improve the survival chances of affected cats.

Furthermore, intensive research is being conducted to improve therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. methods. A promising direction is regenerative medicine, particularly the use of stem cells, which have the potential to regenerate damaged kidney tissue. InitialInitial means beginning or at the start. In medicine, it can refer to the first symptoms of a disease or the first phase of a treatment process. studies show that stem cells not only promote regeneration but also possess anti-inflammatory properties that could be useful in the treatment of ARF.

The role of nutrition and environmental factors is also being investigated more closely in research. Some studies suggest that certain feed additives or diets could reduce the risk of ARF. Researchers are investigating which nutrient combinations are most effective in supporting kidney function and promoting the cat’s overall health.

Additionally, the genetic predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases. for ARF in cats is being researched. By identifying genetic markers associated with an increased risk of renal failure, targeted preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. measures could be developed for susceptible cats in the future. This could contribute to reducing the incidenceIncidence refers to the number of new cases of a disease or condition that occur within a specific time period in a specific population group. It provides information about the risk of contracting the disease. of ARF in the long term.

Another exciting area of research deals with the development of new medications. The focus here is on creating medications that specifically support kidney function while minimizing side effects. The combination of traditional therapies with innovative approaches could significantly improve treatment outcomes.

Research into acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. renal failure in cats is constantly evolving and offers hope for more effective diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and treatment options. Close collaboration between veterinarians, researchers, and pet owners is crucial to translate these advances into practice and improve the well-being of affected animals.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. kidney injury in cats? AcuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. renal failure (ARF) in cats is a sudden, often reversible loss of kidney function. The kidneys are no longer able to effectively filter waste products and excess fluids from the blood, leading to a dangerous accumulation of toxins in the cat’s body.
What are the most common causes of AKI in cats? Common causes of ARF in cats include poisoning (e.g., from antifreeze or toxicToxic means "poisonous" and refers to substances that can have harmful effects on the body, including damage to organs, cells, or disruption of metabolic processes. plants), infections, Nephrolithiasis (kidney stones), or injuries that impair blood supply to the kidneys. Sudden dehydrationDehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in. This can lead to a number of problems, including headaches, Dizziness, and in extreme cases, renal failure or Cardiovascular collapse. can also play a role.
What symptoms indicate acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. kidney injury? Symptoms can include loss of appetite, Vomiting, DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems., lethargy, increased thirst and urination, or the opposite, decreased urine production. In severe cases, dehydrationDehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in. This can lead to a number of problems, including headaches, Dizziness, and in extreme cases, renal failure or Cardiovascular collapse. and weakness may occur.
How is AKI diagnosed? DiagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is made through a combination of clinical examination, blood tests to check kidney values, and urinalysis. In some cases, imaging techniques such as ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. may be necessary for further clarification.
What treatment options are available for cats with AKI? Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the disease and may include intravenous fluid therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions., medications to support kidney function, and, if necessary, treatment of the underlying cause. Close monitoring and care are crucial.
Can a cat be cured of acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. kidney injury? Depending on the cause and early treatment, a cat can fully recover. With prompt intervention and proper care, complete recovery is possible, but some cats may suffer permanent kidney damage.
How can the risk of AKI be reduced in cats? Preventive measures include safely storing potentially toxicToxic means "poisonous" and refers to substances that can have harmful effects on the body, including damage to organs, cells, or disruption of metabolic processes. substances, regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and providing sufficient water. Monitoring the cat for changes in behavior or urination can also help.
Is AKI contagiousContagious means infectious. Diseases that can easily be transmitted from one animal to another or from animals to humans are referred to as contagious. in cats? No, ARF is not a contagiousContagious means infectious. Diseases that can easily be transmitted from one animal to another or from animals to humans are referred to as contagious. disease. It is caused by internal factors or external influences such as poisoning or infections that directly affect the kidneys.
Can a special diet help prevent or treat AKI? Yes, special renal diets with reduced proteinProteins are large molecules made up of amino acids and play an essential role in almost all biological processes. They are necessary for building body tissue, the function of the immune system, and as enzymes for metabolic reactions. and phosphorusPhosphorus is a vital mineral found in bones and teeth, playing a central role in energy metabolism and DNA. A balanced phosphorus to calcium ratio is essential for the health of dogs and cats. content can support kidney function and reduce the burden on the kidneys. However, these diets should be introduced under veterinary guidance.
Are there long-term effects after acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. kidney injury? Cats recovering from ARF may suffer long-term kidney damage, which increases the risk of future kidney problems. Regular check-ups and adapted care are important to support kidney function long-term.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

1. What is acute kidney injury in cats?

Acute renal failure (ARF) in cats is a sudden, often reversible loss of kidney function. The kidneys are no longer able to effectively filter waste products and excess fluids from the blood, leading to a dangerous accumulation of toxins in the cat's body.

2. What are the most common causes of AKI in cats?

Common causes of ARF in cats include poisoning (e.g., from antifreeze or toxic plants), infections, Nephrolithiasis (kidney stones), or injuries that impair blood supply to the kidneys. Sudden dehydration can also play a role.

3. What symptoms indicate acute kidney injury?

Symptoms can include loss of appetite, Vomiting, Diarrhea, lethargy, increased thirst and urination, or the opposite, decreased urine production. In severe cases, dehydration and weakness may occur.

4. How is AKI diagnosed?

Diagnosis is made through a combination of clinical examination, blood tests to check kidney values, and urinalysis. In some cases, imaging techniques such as ultrasound may be necessary for further clarification.

5. What treatment options are available for cats with AKI?

Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the disease and may include intravenous fluid therapy, medications to support kidney function, and, if necessary, treatment of the underlying cause. Close monitoring and care are crucial.

6. Can a cat be cured of acute kidney injury?

Depending on the cause and early treatment, a cat can fully recover. With prompt intervention and proper care, complete recovery is possible, but some cats may suffer permanent kidney damage.

7. How can the risk of AKI be reduced in cats?

Preventive measures include safely storing potentially toxic substances, regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and providing sufficient water. Monitoring the cat for changes in behavior or urination can also help.

8. Is AKI contagious in cats?

No, ARF is not a contagious disease. It is caused by internal factors or external influences such as poisoning or infections that directly affect the kidneys.

9. Can a special diet help prevent or treat AKI?

Yes, special renal diets with reduced protein and phosphorus content can support kidney function and reduce the burden on the kidneys. However, these diets should be introduced under veterinary guidance.

10. Are there long-term effects after acute kidney injury?

Cats recovering from ARF may suffer long-term kidney damage, which increases the risk of future kidney problems. Regular check-ups and adapted care are important to support kidney function long-term.