Chronic kidney disease is the leading cause of death in older cats, and emerging therapies including novel pharmaceuticals are showing promise for extending quality life years.
Feline CKD welfare management requires attention to both disease progression and quality of life. A cat that lives longer on aggressive therapy but experiences persistent nausea, loss of appetite, and reduced enjoyment of normal activities has not necessarily had its welfare improved. The welfare-centered approach to CKD management balances disease control with comfort — prioritizing palatable prescription diets, anti-nausea medication, subcutaneous fluid support for dehydration, and appetite stimulation alongside kidney-protective interventions. Novel therapies including SGLT2 inhibitors and cell-based treatments may extend high-quality life years in the future. Veterinary discussion of quality-of-life assessment tools helps owners and clinicians navigate treatment intensity decisions as disease progresses.