Chronic kidney disease is the most common serious health condition in older cats. Effective management can extend quality life, but welfare-centred decision-making is essential throughout.
Chronic kidney disease management in cats requires careful balancing of medical benefit against quality of life. Early to mid-stage disease is often manageable with dietary modification, blood pressure control, and supportive care, maintaining good quality of life. As disease progresses to later stages, welfare assessment becomes increasingly important in guiding treatment decisions. Nausea, poor appetite, and lethargy indicate declining quality of life that may not be adequately addressed by intensifying medical treatment. Cats vary in their tolerance of subcutaneous fluid therapy and oral medications, and welfare-centred care respects individual variation in treatment tolerance. Open, honest conversations between owners and veterinarians about quality of life, treatment burden, and end-of-life options are essential components of compassionate kidney disease management.