Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is the leading cause of death in older cats, and early detection combined with supportive care can significantly extend quality life.
CKD is a chronic welfare challenge that affects millions of older cats globally. The insidious onset means many cats are significantly ill before diagnosis. Welfare-focused management prioritizes nausea control, adequate hydration, phosphorus restriction, and quality of life monitoring alongside disease-slowing interventions. Guardians managing cats with CKD at home often become highly skilled at subcutaneous fluid administration, medication, and appetite support — and this dedicated care genuinely extends comfortable life. Knowing when to prioritize quality over quantity of life is also a key welfare consideration.