Feline chronic renal failure occurs when the cat's kidneys degenerate and cannot serve its normal functions. Kidneys filter blood and produce urine and cats who suffer from this will drink a lot of water, urinate excessively and lose weight.
   As the cat's kidneys degenerate it becomes thin, dehydrated and may cause your cat to have bad breath. Veterinarians treat cat chronic renal failure by trying to maintain a cat's hydration and electrolyte balance.
   Ways to prevent this common cat disease include making sure your cat has plenty of clean, fresh water. A preventative program can include twice yearly visits to the vet when your cat reaches 7-11 years of age.