CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE IN FELINES: LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

The kidneys play a fundamental role in maintaining life, as they perform several essential functions for the body's homeostasis. Regardless of the etiology, chronic kidney disease affects dogs and cats, and is characterized by irreversible structural lesions, which can gradually evolve to kidney failure. Chronic renal patients do not maintain adequate fluid and acid-base balance, catabolic excretion, and hormonal regulation. The gradual increase in renal dysfunction affects the functional capacity of other organs, which can lead to the development of uremic syndrome. Complementary tests, such as urinalysis, blood count, serum and urine biochemicals, allow the identification of the degree of renal impairment and the establishment of the best therapeutic approach. Thus, laboratory tests are of great importance, as they help in the diagnosis and prognosis, allowing the establishment of the staging and evolution of the disease, as well as directing the therapeutic conducts to be adopted. The objective of this literature review is to describe the pathogenesis, risk factors, clinical signs, diagnosis, treatment, management, and prognosis of Chronic Kidney Disease in cats.