How to Treat Feline Kidney Disease

Feline kidney disease is one of the most common chronic conditions affecting cats, especially as they age. It occurs when the kidneys lose their ability to filter waste and maintain proper fluid balance. While it is a progressive condition, early diagnosis and proper treatment can significantly improve your cat's lifespan and quality of life. 

At Urgent Paws Vet Clinic, we work with pet owners to build personalized treatment plans that support long-term kidney health and comfort. 

Need to make an after-hours vet appointment? Schedule a meeting through Pet Portal or give us a call/email:  403-341-2435; info@urgentpawsvet.ca 

Understanding Feline Kidney Disease 

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) develops gradually, often without obvious early symptoms. Signs that your kitty is struggling with lost kidney function typically become noticeable only after significant damage has already been done – which is why full routine check-ups are essential to pet wellbeing. 

Common symptoms of CKD include: 

• increased thirst 

• frequent urination 

• weight loss 

• decreased appetite 

• vomiting 

• lethargy 

  
  

These occur as toxins build up in the bloodstream. Early testing through bloodwork and urinalysis is essential for detecting the disease and beginning treatment before symptoms worsen. If your cat has not had water or food in over a day, it’s important to see a veterinarian right away.  

Here's How We Help Treat Feline Kidney Disease 

Treatment focuses on slowing disease progression and managing symptoms. Diet and hydration are the most important components of your kitty’s wellness plan at all stages of kidney disease, so that’s where we are likely to start with our treatment recommendations. 

Prescription kidney diets are formulated with controlled protein and phosphorus levels to reduce strain on the kidneys. Top kidney-friendly feline foods include Royal Canin Renal Support and Hill’s Prescription Diet Kidney Care. Both of these are canned wet foods with lower levels of protein and phosphorus to reduce strain on kidneys; they also provide extra water. Research shows that therapeutic diets can significantly extend survival in cats with CKD. 

Hydration is equally critical. Many cats with kidney disease become dehydrated easily, and if they are experiencing intense nausea, they may not want to drink at all. Increasing moisture intake through wet food, multiple water sources or water fountains can help. In more advanced cases, subcutaneous fluid therapy may be recommended to maintain hydration. 

Medications Used to Manage Symptoms 

Medications are often introduced based on your cat’s specific symptoms and stage of disease. These treatments do not cure kidney disease, but they play a major role in improving comfort and slowing progression. 

Common medications include: 

Appetite stimulants

Prescriptions such as mirtazapine help cats maintain food intake when nausea or reduced appetite becomes an issue. 

Anti-nausea medications

Combat nausea with medications like maropitant or ondansetron, which reduce vomiting and improve overall comfort. 

Phosphate binders

These are often prescribed when dietary control alone is not enough. These help reduce blood phosphorus levels, which is important for slowing kidney damage. 

Blood pressure medications

Prescriptions such as amlodipine are used when hypertension is present. High blood pressure is common in cats with kidney disease and can worsen kidney function if left untreated. 

In some cases, medications may also be used to reduce protein loss through the kidneys or to manage secondary conditions such as anemia. Each treatment plan is tailored specifically to your cat, and medications are adjusted over time based on how your cat responds. 

Can Feline Kidney Disease Be Reversed? 

Chronic kidney disease cannot be reversed. The damage to kidney tissue is permanent in most cases. However, progression can often be slowed significantly with early and consistent treatment. In fact, many cats can live comfortably for years after diagnosis when the condition is properly managed! 

It is important to distinguish CKD from acute kidney injury, which can sometimes be reversible if caused by toxins or infection and treated quickly. This is why sudden symptoms should always be addressed immediately. 

Kidney disease is not static. It changes over time, which means treatment must evolve as well. Routine bloodwork, urine testing and blood pressure monitoring allow us to track progression and adjust medications or diet accordingly. This proactive approach helps prevent complications and maintain quality of life. 

Visit Our After-Hours & Weekend Vet Clinic in Red Deer 

At Urgent Paws Vet Clinic, we provide comprehensive care for cats at every stage of kidney disease. From diagnosis to ongoing management, we are here to support both you and your pet.

If you have concerns about your cat’s health or have noticed changes in behaviour, please, come and see us! Early intervention can make a meaningful difference for both of you.