Chronic kidney disease is the most common cause of death in cats over 10 years old; advances in early detection and management have significantly improved quality of life for affected cats.
CKD causes progressive deterioration in wellbeing — nausea, reduced appetite, dehydration, and lethargy accumulate as kidney function declines. Early detection through SDMA testing at annual check-ups from age 7 allows intervention at IRIS Stage 1-2, before clinical signs develop. Prescription kidney diets reduce phosphate and protein load on damaged kidneys and are shown to double survival times in some studies. Subcutaneous fluid supplementation at home (taught by veterinary staff) dramatically improves wellbeing in moderate-to-severe CKD by maintaining hydration. Anti-nausea medication and appetite stimulants address comfort. End-of-life decisions should be guided by quality-of-life assessment — CKD progression is variable and many cats live comfortably for years with appropriate management.