Kidney Enlargement is also known as renomegaly in cats.
Renomegaly is a condition characterized by the abnormal enlargement of one or both kidneys, which can be identified through abdominal palpation, ultrasounds, or X-rays. This condition impacts several of the cat's body systems, including the respiratory, nervous, hormonal, urinary, and digestive systems.
It's important to note that renomegaly doesn't only affect cats; dogs can also experience this condition.
Symptoms Of Kidney Enlargement
Sometimes, a cat with renomegaly may not show any noticeable symptoms. However, common signs to watch for in affected cats include:
- Loss of appetite (anorexia)
- Vomiting
- Lethargy
- Diarrhea
- Mouth ulcers
- Dehydration
- Weight loss
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Presence of an abdominal mass
- Enlarged abdomen
- Increased urination and thirst (polyuria and polydipsia)
- Discolored urine
- Pale mucous membranes
- Abdominal pain
- Detectably enlarged kidneys
Causes Of Kidney Enlargement In Cats
The kidneys can enlarge abnormally due to factors like inflammation, infection, or cancer. Renomegaly may also result from urinary tract obstruction, degeneration of the ureters, cyst formation in the urinary tract, infections, abscesses, inflammatory conditions, genetic disorders, blood clots in the kidneys, and exposure to toxins.
Additionally, infections such as leptospirosis or leukemia can contribute to developing renomegaly.
Diagnosis Of Kidney Enlargement
A thorough blood workup will include a chemical blood profile, complete blood count, and urinalysis. Additionally, blood will be drawn to test for feline leukemia. Your veterinarian will also perform a palpation exam and take X-rays to assess the kidneys' size better and diagnose the condition.
If cancer is suspected, thoracic X-rays will be used to check for any spread of the disease. Ultrasonography, which employs sound waves, will help visualize the organs' internal structure, allowing your veterinarian to evaluate the extent of kidney swelling or identify any abnormalities in other organs.
Sometimes, your cat may undergo renal fluid aspiration and a biopsy for further analysis.
Treatment Of Kidney Enlargement In Cats
Your cat can be treated on an outpatient basis unless it is experiencing dehydration or renal failure. The treatment plan will start by identifying and addressing the condition's root cause. This may involve maintaining fluid balance with intravenous fluids if needed and restoring essential minerals and electrolytes. A normal diet and regular exercise will be recommended if your cat is otherwise in good health.
Your veterinarian will prescribe medications based on the specific cause of organomegaly. However, any drugs that could potentially harm the kidneys should be avoided.
Management Of Kidney Enlargement In Cats
Your veterinarian will schedule regular follow-up visits to monitor your cat's physical recovery and hydration levels.
If you notice any recurrence of symptoms, it is must to contact your veterinarian right away. Renomegaly can lead to complications such as kidney failure and hormone imbalances that may resemble those caused by hormone-producing tumors.
