Acute Kidney Injury in Cats: Part 2 – Management

The approach to management of acute kidney injury (AKI) in cats is to maintain renal perfusion and oxygen delivery, maintain urine output and address any secondary complications. Underlying causes of AKI should be identified and specific treatment instigated. General management may include appropriate fluid therapy, diuretic administration, correction of electrolyte and acid-base abnormalities and management of anaemia, hypertension and nausea. Response to treatment can be monitored through measuring urine output and assessing hydration status. The prognosis for AKI is guarded and approximately 50% of cats that survive will have persistent chronic kidney disease post-recovery.