Chronic kidney disease is the leading cause of death in cats over 10, and early detection through regular screening significantly improves welfare outcomes.
Early CKD detection allows intervention before clinical signs of nausea, weight loss and dehydration develop. SDMA testing, now included in many routine senior panels, detects kidney disease an average of 17 months earlier than creatinine. This window allows dietary changes that significantly slow progression. Phosphorus restriction is the most critical management tool — renal diets specifically formulated for low phosphorus are highly effective. Encouraging water intake through wet food and fountains reduces the concentration burden on failing kidneys. Cats managed proactively from early CKD diagnosis consistently outlive those diagnosed at advanced stages.