Managing Feline Chronic Kidney Disease

What is Feline Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)?

Feline Chronic Kidney Disease is a common and progressive condition in which a cat's kidneys gradually lose their ability to function properly. The kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste products and regulating various bodily functions, including electrolyte balance, and red blood cell production. When the kidneys become damaged or diseased, it can lead to a range of health issues in cats. 

A buildup of the waste products in the bloodstream that are normally removed or regulated by the kidneys occurs with kidney disease. This accumulation may make them feel ill and appear lethargic, unkempt, and lose weight. They may also lose the ability to concentrate their urine appropriately, and as a result they may urinate greater volumes and drink more water to compensate. The loss of important proteins and vitamins in their urine may contribute to abnormal metabolism and loss of appetite. They may also experience elevated blood pressure (hypertension), which can affect the function of a number of important systems, including the eyes, brain, and heart.

Key points about Feline CKD:

Prevalence

CKD is a common condition in older cats, with a higher prevalence in felines over the age of 7. It is estimated 30-40% of cats over 10 years and 81% of cats over 15 years suffer from CKD.

Symptoms

Symptoms of CKD in cats may include increased thirst and urination, weight loss, reduced appetite, halitosis, lethargy, vomiting, and changes in coat quality. 

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is typically made through blood tests, urinalysis, and physical examination by a veterinarian. Kidney function is assessed by measuring blood creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels. Given the potential for hypertension in cats with CKD, measurement of a cat’s blood pressure is also an important part of the medical evaluation for this disease.

Treatment

There is no cure for CKD, but management strategies focus on slowing the progression of the disease and alleviating symptoms. Treatment options may include dietary changes, medications to control blood pressure and manage symptoms, and fluid therapy.

Subcutaneous fluid therapy

Often referred to as "sub-Q fluids," is a crucial component of managing Feline CKD and can be done in the comfort of your home by a trained Registered Veterinary Technician.

Why Fluid Therapy Can Help Manage Feline Chronic Kidney Disease

Hydration

Cats with CKD are prone to dehydration due to increased urination and reduced fluid absorption. Subcutaneous fluids provide a direct and efficient way to rehydrate your cat, helping to maintain proper hydration levels.

Flush Toxins

By increasing fluid intake, subcutaneous fluids assist in flushing waste products and toxins from your cat's system, thereby reducing the workload on the compromised kidneys.

Improved Appetite

Proper hydration can lead to an improved appetite in cats, which is essential for maintaining body weight and overall health.

Symptom Alleviation

Cats with CKD often suffer from nausea and vomiting. Hydration through subcutaneous fluids can alleviate these symptoms and improve the cat's overall comfort and quality of life.

Administered at Home

Subcutaneous fluids are typically administered at home, which can reduce stress for the cat and the owner, as frequent vet visits may not be necessary for fluid administration.

Administration of subcutaneous fluids should be done under the guidance and supervision of a veterinarian, who will determine the appropriate fluid type, volume, and frequency tailored to your individual cat's needs.

Subcutaneous fluids play a crucial role in managing Feline CKD and can significantly enhance your cat's well-being and longevity.

Paw Pros Mobile Vet Nursing can administer your pets fluids in the comfort of your home with minimal stress to you and your pet.

Further Discussion on Treatment Options for CKD:

The treatment of CKD depends on the results of blood tests, and specific treatments aim to resolve specific abnormalities. Most cats are effectively managed with diet change, including supplementation and one or two other treatments. Your veterinarian will work with you to determine the best treatment for your cat.

• Subcutaneous (SQ) fluids. In the later stages of CKD, cats cannot drink enough to maintain healthy hydration. SQ fluids are well tolerated by cats and can improve their quality of life.

• Therapeutic diets. Restricted protein and low phosphorus diets help lower the level of waste products in the bloodstream. These can be prepared at home or are available ready prepared from your veterinary practice.

• Phosphate binders. Despite low phosphate in the diet, blood phosphorus levels remain above normal in some cats. Reducing blood phosphorus can have a significant effect on improving your cat's well-being and slowing disease progression. Oral phosphate binders such as aluminum hydroxide help to lower the amount of phosphorus absorbed through the gut wall.

• Potassium supplementation. Cats in renal failure tend to lose too much potassium in the urine. This leads to muscle weakness, stiffness, and poor hair quality. Low potassium levels may also contribute to the worsening of kidney failure.

• B Vitamins. When the failing kidneys cannot concentrate the urine, water-soluble vitamins like B12 become depleted, and affected cats can require supplementation.

• Anti-emetics. For those cats experiencing vomiting, using anti-emetics (anti-vomiting medications) reduces nausea, thereby improving appetite.

• Blood-pressure lowering drugs. Many cats with kidney failure have high blood pressure, leading to further kidney damage. High blood pressure can be managed with medication.

• Medication to reduce proteinuria, another condition that can hasten the progression of CKD.

• Treatment for anemia. Kidneys initiate the production of red blood cells in the bone marrow. Many cats with CKD are anemic due to a lack of stimulation of the bone marrow. Newer drugs have been developed to help stimulate bone marrow production and may be prescribed for your cat.

All of these potential treatments options must be discussed thouroughly with your veterinarian prior to initiation.