The Truth About Kidney Disease in Cats

The Truth About Kidney Disease in Cats

The Truth About Kidney Disease in Cats

Jun 11, 2020

Kidney disease is one of the most common - and serious - health issues in cats, especially as they age. While the diagnosis can feel overwhelming, understanding this condition and how to manage it can significantly improve your cat's quality of life (and yours!).

What is Kidney Disease?

The kidneys are vital organs responsible for filtering waste from the blood, balancing electrolytes, and producing important hormones. When the kidneys begin to lose function, waste products and toxins build up in the body, leading to kidney disease (also known as renal disease).

There are two main types:

  • Acute Kidney Injury: A sudden loss of kidney function, often caused by toxins (like household chemicals, foods, or toxic plants like lilies), infections, or dehydration. This may be reversible if caught and treated early.
  • Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): A slow, progressive decline in kidney function, more common in older cats. CKD is not curable, but can be managed.

Symptoms & Diagnosis of Kidney Disease in Cats

Early signs can be subtle, but watch for:

  • Increased thirst and urination (including outside the litter box)
  • Weight loss
  • Poor appetite or picky eating
  • Vomiting or nausea
  • Lethargy
  • Dehydration
  • Weakness or muscle loss

As the disease progresses, these symptoms can become more severe.

Your veterinarian may use a combination of blood tests, urine tests, or imaging (X-ray or ultrasound) to diagnose kidney disease.

Managing CKD in Cats

1. Diet

A common misconception is that cats with CKD must eat a prescription diet. Many high-quality foods can be a suitable option for cats with kidney disease.

The most important factor in selecting a diet is a high moisture content (canned food and raw foods are great options) - while your cat should always have access to clean water, they should get most of their moisture from their food. If your cat is eating kibble, adding things like low-sodium broth, raw goat milk, or canned food is a good way to start.

2. Hydration

Dehydration is a major issue for cats with kidney disease, and proper hydration levels support the kidneys by helping to flush out toxins. Hydration support may include:

  • Subcutaneous (under the skin) fluid administration
  • Water fountains to encourage drinking
  • Feeding food that contains high moisture content (wet or raw)
  • Adding water to dry food to increase moisture

3. Medications & Supplements

Depending on your cat's symptoms and diagnostic test results, your vet may prescribe or recommend:

  • Phosphate binders
  • Anti-nausea medication
  • Appetite stimulants
  • Nutritional supplements

Recap: Supporting Your Cat at Home

  • Offer multiple fresh water sources to encourage your cat to drink water
  • Feed palatable, high-quality food with a high moisture content
  • Monitor appetite, weight, and litter box habits closely
  • Create a low-stress environment
  • Stick to a consistent routine -cats thrive on predictability, especially when unwell!