Chronic Kidney Disease in Cats

Symptoms

Early CKD is often subtle. Watch for:

• Polydipsia and polyuria (increased drinking and urination)
• Weight loss and muscle wasting
• Decreased appetite
• Vomiting and nausea
• Poor coat quality
• Bad breath (uremic odor)

Causes & Risk Factors

CKD results from progressive nephron loss. Contributing factors include:

• Age-related degeneration
• Genetic predisposition (Persian PKD)
• Prior acute kidney injury
• Chronic urinary obstruction
• Dental disease (chronic bacteremia)

Diagnosis

Diagnosis combines clinical signs with:

• SDMA and creatinine blood tests
• Urinalysis (USG, proteinuria)
• Blood pressure measurement
• IRIS staging for treatment planning
• Ultrasound to assess kidney architecture

Treatment

Management is multimodal:

1. Renal diet — reduced phosphorus, controlled protein
2. Hydration — subcutaneous fluids when indicated
3. Phosphate binders — if diet alone insufficient
4. Anti-nausea medications — maropitant, mirtazapine
5. Blood pressure control — amlodipine when hypertensive

Prevention

While not all CKD is preventable:

• Annual senior bloodwork starting at age 7
• Dental care to reduce bacteremia
• Adequate hydration and wet food
• Genetic screening in predisposed breeds

Emergency Signs

Seek immediate care if your cat:

• Has not eaten for 24+ hours
• Is vomiting repeatedly
• Shows extreme lethargy or collapse
• Has not urinated in 12+ hours

Recovery & Prognosis

CKD is managed, not cured. With consistent treatment, many cats maintain good quality of life. Regular rechecks every 3–6 months allow treatment adjustment as the disease progresses.