Chronic Kidney Disease in Cats
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is the most common disease in cats over 10 years old, affecting up to 30% of seniors. Treatment focuses on slowing progression and quality of life.
Chronic Kidney Disease in Cats
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is the most common disease in cats over 10 years old, affecting up to 30% of seniors. Treatment focuses on slowing progression and quality of life.
- •Increased thirst and urine output
- •Gradual weight loss
- •Reduced appetite, intermittent vomiting
- •Dull coat, uraemic breath
Symptoms
- •Increased thirst and urine output
- •Gradual weight loss
- •Reduced appetite, intermittent vomiting
- •Dull coat, uraemic breath
- •Weakness, low activity
- •Constipation from dehydration
Causes
- •Age-related kidney changes
- •Chronic infections
- •Polycystic kidney disease (Persians, Maine Coons)
- •Hypertension and heart disease
- •Long-term nephrotoxic medications
Diagnosis
- Biochemistry: creatinine, urea, phosphorus
- SDMA — early dysfunction marker
- Urinalysis with specific gravity
- Blood pressure
- Renal ultrasound
- IRIS staging (1–4)
Treatment
- •Therapeutic diet — low phosphorus, controlled protein
- •Subcutaneous fluids (weekly or at home)
- •Phosphate binders
- •Hypertension control (amlodipine)
- •Erythropoietin for anaemia
- •Gastric protection (omeprazole) for nausea
- •Monitoring every 3–6 months
Prevention
- •Senior wellness exams twice a year
- •Blood pressure monitoring
- •Free access to fresh water, fountains
- •Quality food with moderate protein
- •Treat UTIs early to prevent chronicity
When to see the vet
- →Cat drinking noticeably more
- →Weight loss without dieting
- →Vomiting 1–2 times a week
- →Notable weakness or hiding
Treatment costs (₽)
| Biochemistry + SDMA | ₽3,500 – ₽6,500 |
| Renal ultrasound | ₽1,500 – ₽3,000 |
| Therapeutic diet, 12 kg | ₽8,500 – ₽14,000 |
| Subcutaneous fluids (visit) | ₽800 – ₽2,500 |
FAQ
How long does a cat with CKD live?
Depends on stage: stage 1 — years, stage 4 — weeks to months. Early diagnosis and diet extend life.
Can I give fluids at home?
Yes. The vet trains you to administer subcutaneous fluids 2–3 times a week.
Does diet really help?
Therapeutic diet is the cornerstone — proven to slow disease progression.