Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is one of the most common conditions in older cats — estimates suggest 20–50% of cats over 15 have some degree of CKD. The kidneys gradually lose function, toxins accumulate, and the cat becomes increasingly unwell. CKD is irreversible, but early detection and management can slow progression significantly, adding months or even years of quality life.
Early Signs — Don’t Wait for These
- Increased drinking and urination — the earliest sign. Larger urine clumps in the litter tray. Drinking from unusual places (taps, plant pots)
- Weight loss and reduced appetite
- Vomiting (toxin buildup causes nausea)
- Lethargy, withdrawal
- Poor coat condition — lack of grooming
- Bad breath (uremic halitosis — “urine” smell)
- Sudden blindness (caused by dangerously high blood pressure)
Symptoms often don’t appear until 75% of kidney function is already lost — which is why annual blood tests for cats over 7 are critical.
IRIS Staging
The International Renal Interest Society (IRIS) grades CKD into 4 stages based on creatinine and SDMA blood levels:
- Stage 1: No clinical signs. Only detected by sensitive blood tests (SDMA)
- Stage 2: Mild — may notice increased drinking. Renal diet recommended from this point
- Stage 3: Moderate — clinical signs apparent. Active treatment needed
- Stage 4: Severe — significant clinical illness. Intensive management required
Treatment
- Renal diet: Restricted protein, phosphorus, and sodium. Wet food preferred (increases water intake). Royal Canin Renal, Hill’s k/d, Purina NF
- Phosphate binders: Added to food when diet alone doesn’t control phosphorus levels
- Blood pressure medication: Amlodipine — hypertension is common in CKD and can cause retinal detachment (sudden blindness)
- Subcutaneous fluids: Owners can learn to give fluids under the skin at home to combat dehydration
- Anti-nausea medication and appetite stimulants
- Regular monitoring: Blood tests, urine tests, blood pressure checks every 3–6 months
FAQs
How much does CKD treatment cost?
The average UK insurance claim for kidney disease is approximately £931, but costs vary widely depending on the stage. Ongoing costs include prescription renal food (more expensive than regular food), medications (phosphate binders, blood pressure tablets, anti-nausea drugs), and regular blood tests and vet check-ups. Subcutaneous fluid therapy adds additional cost if needed. Pet insurance with a high vet fee limit is strongly recommended for all cats, especially as they enter their senior years.
Reviewed by Dr. Sarah Jenkins, MRCVS
Dr. Jenkins is a fully practicing veterinary surgeon in the UK with over 15 years of clinical experience in small animal medicine and canine behaviour. She reviews and verifies our health content to ensure medical accuracy.
