• Reduced eating 

• Tiredness  

• Weight loss 

• Increased thirst and frequent passing urine 

• Poor coat 

• Bad smelly breath 

• Vomiting 

As soon as you notice any of the above symptoms, especially with severe symptoms, it becomes an emergency condition. 

• Urine and blood test to check functionality of kidney or if other issues are causing the disease.  

• Blood pressure measurement, if high, can be an indication of kidney disease.  

In some circumstances other tests may be used such as X-rays and ultrasound to further investigate the condition of the kidneys and look for underlying causes.  

In most cats the treatment is aiming to reducing your cat’s symptoms, reducing the kidney complications and supporting the kidney function such as -  

First line of treatment:

• Hydration with a drip if hospitalisation is required and any specific medication if the causes of kidney disease is known. 

• Treatment for anaemia (low red blood cell count) in advanced CKD cases can be available with some medications depending on the cause and severity of it such as blood transfusions, iron supplement. A new drug is available to stimulate a protein (erythropoietin) produced in the kidney which in turn stimulates the bone marrow to produce more red blood cells. 

• Once the cat is stable, he/she can return home and start ongoing management treatment.  

Ongoing management: 

• Dietary management with special renal diet (reduce the built up of toxins in the kidneys) with reduced phosphate content and high potassium and antioxidant and fatty acids to help your cat to slow the progression of the disease.   

• Encouraging your cat to drink by offering from different bowls and using flavoured chicken or tuna water (without stock or salt) or use of water fountains.   

• Anti-nausea medication.  

• Cats with CKD are at risk of developing high blood pressure which can lead to worsening of the condition and also to blindness. Blood pressure should be routinely checked and if high your vet will prescribe some tablets to lower it down.   

• Use of ACE inhibitors a drug that reduce the loss of proteins in urine might help to slow down the disease. 

• Potassium supplementation in form of gel or tablets to be added in your cat’s food as cats with this disease usually have low blood potassium level causing muscle weakness.  

•  In some situations, stimulant to encourage to eat. 

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) in cats can't always be prevented; you can take steps to promote kidney health and potentially slow its progression. 

• Increase water intake with multiple bowls or water fountains. 

• Feed wet food, which has higher moisture content.  

• Ensure easy access to a clean litter tray.
• Schedule regular vet check-ups for early disease detection.
• Encourage water intake using fountains or large bowls.
• Incorporate wet food in the diet to increase water intake.
• Control weight to prevent obesity-related issues.
• Understanding, detecting, and managing kidney disease is crucial for a cat’s well-being. Regular veterinary care, a balanced diet, and a supportive environment can contribute to a healthier life for your feline friend.

Cats can generally enjoy a good quality of life for months or even years with the right treatment and routine monitoring. Unfortunately, the disease will progress over time and once it is not possible to control your cat’s signs and his/her quality of life is affected, it might be kinder to consider euthanasia.