Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is the most common cause of death in older cats, affecting over 30% of cats over 15 years. Management improves both lifespan and quality of life for affected cats.
Cats with CKD experience a range of welfare-impacting symptoms including nausea from uremic toxin accumulation, reduced appetite, weakness from anemia, and the discomfort of dehydration. Without management, these symptoms progress and worsen. The welfare opportunity in CKD management is substantial - early detection through regular senior screening allows dietary and medical intervention that extends comfortable life significantly. Subcutaneous fluid therapy, while requiring owner commitment, transforms quality of life for many moderately affected cats. The welfare calculus in advanced CKD requires honest assessment of whether management is maintaining quality of life or merely extending a life of discomfort - regular quality of life scoring helps owners and veterinarians make appropriate decisions.