Chronic Kidney Disease

What is chronic kidney disease (CKD)?   

The kidneys contain millions of microscopic structures which perform a host of complex tasks that keep your cat healthy. Their primary function is to conserve water, and filter out metabolic byproducts from the blood. They also have a role in controlling blood pressure, maintaining electrolyte balances, supporting red blood cell production, and conserving protein in the body.  Kidney function declines for many reasons, including age, inflammation, infection, or cancer.   

What are common CKD signs in cats?

Early signs include:

• Increased thirst and urination
• Unkempt hair coat

Intermediate to advanced signs include:

• Decreased appetite
• Weight loss
• Nausea and vomiting
• Lethargy or weakness
• Loss of vision
• Bad breath or mouth ulcers

How is CKD managed in cats?  

Once any underlying conditions are addressed, cats do surprisingly well with early to mid-stage CKD. The first step is a prescription diet that helps the kidneys do their job more easily. At more advanced stages, supportive measures may include supplemental hydration with fluids, as well as medications to reduce nausea, stimulate appetite, reduce blood pressure, balance electrolytes, conserve protein, and stimulate red blood cell production. Cats with CKD need regular diagnostic testing, to monitor their status and prognosis.

What is the prognosis for cats with CKD?

Most CKD cases are irreversible and progressive. Prognosis depends on an individual cat’s treatment response, and the disease stage at the time of diagnosis. If CKD is caught early, many cats can have a good quality of life for years. Cats at later stages require more intensive treatment, and have a shorter lifespan.

Management tips for cats with CKD

At-home needs include:

• A warm, comfortable place to sleep
• Easy access to food, water, and a clean litter box
• A palatable kidney prescription diet
• Fluids administered under the skin, if directed by your veterinarian
• Consistency with medications, which can be compounded into tasty treats

End-of-life care includes:

• Try to keep your cat safe and comfortable
• Ensure adequate nutrition and hydration
• Monitor for pain or discomfort
• Evaluate your cat’s quality of life with our scoring tool
• Track progression of your cat’s health with our calendar

In a crisis situation:

Contact your veterinarian immediately if your cat stops eating or urinating, cannot walk, vomits excessively, vocalizes in pain, and is having seizures or difficulty breathing.

Before your cat’s condition becomes unmanageable, or they begin losing their quality of life, beginning end-of-life care discussions is vital. Learn more about pet hospice, in-home euthanasia, and our teleadvice service, or contact a Lap of Love veterinarian in your area, so you can feel fully prepared for this progressive disease.