Health

Cats

Chronic kidney disease in older cats

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a slow, permanent loss of kidney function that affects many older cats, up to 80% of cats over 15 according to Cornell. Early on there may be no signs, so regular senior blood and urine tests matter. There is no cure, but diet, hydration and vet treatment can slow it and keep cats comfortable.

What you might notice

• Drinking and urinating more than usual.
• Weight loss and a poor appetite.
• Vomiting that comes and goes.
• Low energy and an unkempt coat.
• Bad breath or mouth ulcers.

Common causes

• Ageing; age is the main known risk factor.
• Earlier kidney damage from infection, toxins or blockage.
• Inherited kidney disease in some breeds.

What you can do at home

• Keep fresh water available in several places, including a fountain if your cat likes moving water.
• Offer wet food to increase water intake.
• Change to any kidney diet your vet recommends slowly, and make sure your cat keeps eating.
• Keep a simple diary of appetite, drinking and weight.

Book a vet in the next day or two if

• Drinking or urinating more than before.
• Gradual weight loss or eating less.
• Your cat is over 8 and has not had a recent check-up with blood and urine tests.

Don't

• Do not force a sudden diet change; a cat that refuses food is at risk.
• Do not give human medicines, including painkillers.
• Do not restrict water.

Prevention

• Have regular senior check-ups with blood, urine and blood pressure tests.
• Keep toxic plants such as lilies and human medicines away from cats.
• Encourage good water intake throughout life.

This guide gives general information about common health problems in dogs and cats. It is not a diagnosis and it does not replace an examination by a veterinarian. Every animal is different, and signs that look mild can sometimes hide a serious problem, especially in cats, which often hide illness and pain. If you are worried about your pet, or if your pet shows any of the warning signs listed here, contact your vet or the nearest emergency veterinary clinic straight away. Never give your pet human medicines or any medicine not prescribed for that animal by a vet.