Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is highly prevalent in older dogs and requires careful dietary and medical management to maintain quality of life through the progressive stages of disease.
Canine CKD causes progressive accumulation of uraemic toxins that reduce appetite, cause nausea, and impair neurological function, significantly compromising welfare. Managing the rate of progression through phosphate restriction and blood pressure control can extend periods of good quality life substantially. Early IRIS staging and intervention before severe signs develop produces better welfare outcomes than reactive management of advanced disease. Anti-nausea medication, appetite stimulants, and subcutaneous fluid support maintain comfort and nutritional status in later disease stages, allowing extended good quality life before euthanasia becomes the welfare-positive decision.