Chronic kidney disease is the most common serious condition in older cats and a leading cause of death, but early detection and management significantly extends good-quality life.
Cats with undiagnosed CKD suffer from chronic nausea, dehydration, and uraemia before diagnosis. Early detection through annual SDMA screening allows dietary intervention that measurably slows progression and extends good-quality life. Welfare-positive management includes pain assessment, appetite support, and quality of life monitoring.