Kidney Disease in Senior Cats

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is one of the most common and serious conditions affecting older cats. While it can't be cured, it can be managed — and the earlier it's caught, the better the outcome for your feline companion.

Because cats are experts at hiding illness, the signs of kidney disease can be subtle and easily missed. That’s why routine checkups and screening tests are essential as your cat enters their senior years.

Contents

• What Is Chronic Kidney Disease?

• Why Senior Cats Are at Risk

• Early Signs of Kidney Disease

• How Vets Detect Kidney Problems Early

• Managing Kidney Disease in Cats

• When to Contact Us

What Is Chronic Kidney Disease?

Chronic kidney disease occurs when the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste and regulate fluids, electrolytes, and hormones. It develops slowly over time, usually due to age-related wear and tear, but can also result from infections, toxins, or congenital issues.

As waste products build up in the bloodstream, they begin to affect other body systems. Without treatment, CKD can lead to dehydration, malnutrition, high blood pressure, and severe illness.

Why Senior Cats Are at Risk

CKD is particularly common in cats over 7 years old — with rates increasing sharply as they reach their early teens. The kidneys are highly efficient, but once damage begins, it's usually permanent.

Older cats may also drink less water, especially if they’re fed dry food exclusively, which can compound the strain on their kidneys.

Risk factors include:

• Ageing (typically over 7–10 years)

• Breed predispositions (e.g., Persians, Abyssinians)

• Past urinary infections or stones

• Exposure to toxins such as lilies or antifreeze

• Dental disease (which may spread bacteria to organs)

Early Signs of Kidney Disease

CKD develops gradually, and many cats show no clear symptoms until the disease is well advanced. That’s why early signs, though subtle, should never be ignored — especially in older cats.

Signs to watch for:

• Increased thirst and urination

• Weight loss despite normal appetite

• Dull or unkempt coat

• Vomiting or nausea

• Bad breath (ammonia smell)

• Lethargy or weakness

• Poor appetite or selective eating

• Constipation or dehydration

If your cat seems “off” or you're refilling the water bowl more than usual, it’s time for a check-up.

How Vets Detect Kidney Problems Early

The only reliable way to diagnose CKD early is through routine blood and urine tests, ideally started from age 7 onwards. These tests can detect subtle changes in kidney function long before symptoms appear.

Key diagnostic tools include:

• Blood tests: Measure creatinine, urea, and SDMA levels (an early biomarker for kidney function)

• Urine tests: Check for protein loss, concentration, and signs of infection

• Blood pressure monitoring: High blood pressure often accompanies kidney disease

• Weight tracking: Unintentional weight loss is a red flag

With early detection, supportive care can be introduced before the kidneys are severely compromised — improving both quality of life and longevity.

Managing Kidney Disease in Cats

While CKD cannot be reversed, many cats live for years with the condition when managed properly. Treatment focuses on slowing progression, reducing symptoms, and supporting hydration and nutrition.

Management strategies may include:

• Prescription renal diets – lower in phosphorus and protein to reduce kidney workload

• Increased water intake – through wet food, water fountains, or subcutaneous fluids

• Medications – to control blood pressure, reduce protein loss, and treat nausea

• Regular monitoring – blood tests every few months to track progress

• Supplements – such as phosphate binders or potassium if needed

The earlier treatment begins, the more successful it tends to be — and the more comfortable your cat will remain.

When to Contact Us

If your cat is over 7 years old, now is the time to start regular kidney screenings — even if they seem perfectly well. A simple blood and urine check could detect changes long before symptoms appear.

📞 Call us on 020 8459 4729 or book an appointment online to schedule a senior health check and ensure your cat’s kidneys are functioning at their best.

We believe preventing disease is a far better way of helping your pet stay fit, comfortable, happy and healthy. So we’ve created the Vital Pets Club to make sure every pet owner has easy access to the best pet care at an affordable price.