Chronic kidney disease affects the majority of cats over 15 years and is the leading cause of feline death - long-term welfare management focuses on quality of life rather than cure.
CKD welfare management is a long-term relationship between veterinary teams, owners and cats. The focus shifts from cure to quality of life management as the disease progresses. Welfare assessments should evaluate appetite, hydration, activity, social behaviour and pain alongside clinical parameters. Renal diet palatability is a welfare consideration - forcing a cat to eat an unpalatable diet may compromise quality of life more than disease progression. Home fluid administration is welfare-positive for many cats but requires owner capability and willingness. End-of-life decisions require careful welfare assessment to prevent prolonging poor quality of life through well-intentioned treatment.