Chronic kidney disease is the leading cause of death in cats over age 10, causing a gradual and often prolonged decline that significantly affects quality of life, yet early detection and management can extend comfortable life substantially.
Chronic kidney disease causes a prolonged welfare burden that can be substantially mitigated with appropriate management. Cats with moderate CKD experience nausea, reduced appetite, and the discomfort of toxin accumulation that causes them to feel persistently unwell. With renal diet feeding, phosphorus management, subcutaneous fluid support, and treatment of secondary complications like hypertension and anemia, many cats maintain good quality of life for months to years after diagnosis. Without management, decline is faster and more uncomfortable. The key welfare intervention is early detection through annual senior bloodwork before clinical signs appear.