Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a common problem in middle-aged and senior cats. Unfortunately, CKD is a progressive, incurable disease that often leads to death, but with early detection, disease management can provide months or years of good quality of life.

What is CKD in cats?

CKD is a chronic kidney deterioration that interferes with the kidneys’ ability to perform their normal functions:

• Waste elimination
• Water conservation
• Erythropoietin production
• Blood pressure regulation

CKD’s cause in cats is often unknown, although a sudden insult to the kidneys, such as toxin exposure, or low blood pressure, can cause acute kidney failure, which can progress to CKD.

CKD typically progresses slowly, because the kidneys are able to compensate for some time. Only when approximately 70% of function has deteriorated, and the kidneys can no longer keep up with the body’s demands, are normal functions affected. Common CKD effects include:

• Waste accumulation in the body, which makes your cat feel sick
• Dehydration, as water is lost in the urine instead of conserved
• Decreased red blood cell production, or anemia, due to erythropoietin deficiency
• High blood pressure

What CKD signs should I watch for in my cat?

CKD signs are directly related to the effects above, and include:

• Lethargy and weakness
• Decreased appetite
• Vomiting
• Dehydration
• Oral ulcers
• A distinctive odor to your cat’s breath

Unfortunately, the onset of signs indicates that your cat’s CKD has advanced, and they have lost the majority of their kidney function. Although treatment may make them feel better for a short time, you likely will not have much time left with your beloved friend. 

How is CKD diagnosed in cats?

If your cat demonstrates signs consistent with CKD, your family veterinarian should evaluate them immediately. CKD in symptomatic cats is typically diagnosed by measuring two waste products in the blood—blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine—that the kidneys normally eliminate. Higher than normal levels indicate that the kidneys are no longer performing this critical function. 

CKD that is detected early can be managed to slow its progression and give you more time with your cat. Since the disease becomes apparent only when advanced, regular preventive visits to your family veterinarian are crucial to detect the disease in its early stages when treatment can help. Your senior cat should visit your family veterinarian every three to six months for a thorough exam, and bloodwork to evaluate organ function. A specific blood test, symmetric dimethylarginine (SMDA), can diagnose kidney disease in its beginning stages, and allow you to treat the disease at home, before your cat feels sick.

How is CKD treated in cats?

Advanced CKD is often managed in the hospital, with medications and intravenous fluids to help your cat eliminate the wastes that are making them feel sick. Unfortunately, at this stage, treatment often cannot provide much more time with your cat, and affected cats are often euthanized, or pass on their own.

CKD that is detected early can often be managed at home. You will likely need to administer medications to your cat to manage the disease’s side effects, and you may also need to administer fluids under their skin to maintain hydration and kidney function. CKD management involves frequent veterinary visits to monitor your cat’s condition, and adjust treatment protocols. 

What is the prognosis for CKD in cats?

CKD is a progressive, incurable disease that eventually leads to death. If CKD is diagnosed in advanced stages, the prognosis is poor, and affected cats do not typically have much time left. However, CKD diagnosed early can often be managed for months to years, with the cat maintaining a good quality of life. Your family veterinarian can provide more information about your cat’s prognosis, based on their examination and evaluation. 

If your cat has progressive CKD, you should think about an end-of-life plan before the disease advances. Contact our Support Center or your local Lap of Love veterinarian to learn more about veterinary hospice care, in-home euthanasia, our aftercare options, and telehospice services. We are here to help you through this difficult time.