Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a very common finding in mature cats, potentially affecting over 30% of cats over 10 years of age.

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The kidneys’ main functions are to remove waste products from the blood stream and maintain the water content and pressure. Chronic kidney or renal disease is a condition of irreversible, long term deterioration in the kidney function. 

The signs that your cat is experiencing kidney problems will likely only become obvious when the disease has already progressed.

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Symptoms of chronic kidney disease: 

• Loss of appetite

• Lethargy

• Vomiting

• Diarrhoea

• Increased water consumption

• Increase or decrease in urine production

• Bloody or cloudy urine

• Bad breath with an ammonia smell

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Treatment:  Although there is no definitive cure for CKD, treatment can improve and prolong the lives of cats with this disease. 

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Cat’s usually show no signs of disease until 75% of their kidney function is gone.

 

The key is early diagnosis – so make sure your pet is having regular health checks with blood and urine tests.

There is evidence suggesting that the earlier CKD is diagnosed and treatment is initiated, the better the outcome with respect to quality of life and survival.

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Get a check up with your vet twice a year and if you see changes in urination or water consumption seek their advice as soon as possible.

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