Your cat's recent bloodwork shows an elevated BUN level, indicating potential concerns with kidney function. Understanding the significance of BUN levels will help you monitor your cat's health effectively.
- Elevated BUN levels can indicate issues, but context is key
- Look for other signs of kidney problems
- Consult with a vet for a comprehensive assessment
BUN, or Blood Urea Nitrogen, is a waste product filtered by the kidneys. Elevated levels can indicate reduced kidney function, but it's essential to look at the complete picture, including creatinine levels and urinalysis results. BUN levels themselves don't diagnose kidney failure but typically a significant increase alongside other abnormal values warrants closer attention. It's important to monitor for symptoms like increased thirst, frequent urination, vomiting, weight loss, and lethargy, which may accompany kidney concerns.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- What BUN level indicates kidney failure in cats?
No specific BUN level alone indicates kidney failure, but levels significantly above the normal range combined with other test results can suggest serious issues. Consulting your vet for a detailed interpretation is essential.
- What symptoms should I watch for in my cat?
Watch for increased thirst and urination, decreased appetite, vomiting, weight loss, and lethargy. These can indicate kidney issues and warrant further investigation by a vet.
- How often should bloodwork be done for my cat?
It's generally recommended to perform bloodwork annually for healthy adult cats, but those with kidney concerns may need testing every few months. Your veterinarian can guide you based on your cat's health status.
