Chronic kidney disease affects around one third of older cats and is the leading cause of death in cats over 10 years, requiring careful management to maintain quality of life.
Chronic kidney disease causes progressive toxin accumulation that, if unmanaged, leads to nausea, anorexia, lethargy, and ultimately uraemic crisis. The welfare of cats with CKD depends critically on active management rather than passive monitoring. Dietary modification, phosphorus binders, blood pressure control, and fluid support can significantly slow progression and maintain quality of life for months to years beyond diagnosis. Home subcutaneous fluid therapy, while requiring owner training, dramatically improves welfare by reducing hospitalisation stress while providing regular fluid support. Regular quality of life assessment helps owners and vets make informed decisions about when management has ceased to be welfare-positive.