Preventing Chronic Kidney Disease... Is It Even Possible?

CKD is one of the most common progressive illnesses found in cats. In fact, over 60% of all cats aged 15 and above will develop some form of it. And it’s because of this, most cat owners wonder…is this condition is preventable?

And the truth is there’s no straightforward answer (helpful right…) 

To better understand if CKD is preventable, we first need to look at the causes of this condition.

The causes can be split into two main categories: Congenital (conditions present from birth) or Acquired (conditions that your cat will have developed over time).

Cats with a Congenital conditions are likely to have either Polycystic Kidney Disease, Renal Dysplasia or were born with only one kidney. Each of these conditions drastically affect your cat’s kidney function from the offset, and therefore make it very tough to prevent CKD in the future.

Cats that Acquire the condition over time may have suffered from a bacterial or viral infections, an inflammatory condition, have been exposed to toxins ( for example anti-freeze, grapes, raisins or lilies), had trauma to the kidneys or have been diagnosed with a form of cancer.

Although it is still not possible to say that any of the acquired conditions listed above are preventable, there are several strategies cat owners can carry out at home to promote their cat’s health as they get older. 

1) Maintaining a healthy diet - particularly for older cats there are specialist foods available to promote the health of their kidneys. These foods reduce the load on your cats kidneys as she ages. They often have reduced amounts pf phosphorus, higher quality proteins, and a lot more nutrients. There are a variety of kidney support supplements that aid renal health.

2) Hydration levels – Ensuring your cat remains hydrated is key to maintaining the health of their kidneys. Kidney function will degrade in cats as they get older regardless, as a result, they will be urinating more. And because of this, its super important your cat, as she ages, keeps on drinking water. Remember, cats tend to only drink from a full bowl of water or even better, running water, which is why cat drinking fountains make an excellent aid for ensuring your cat stays hydrated.

3) Regular vet check-ups – Even if you think your cat’s health is in good condition, it is always important to attend their annual vet check-up to ensure any concerning symptoms are spotted as quickly as possible. This is particularly important in catching any bacterial or viral infections early which could lead to CKD. Treating these ailments as early as possible will help snuff out any chance of future kidney complications. 

4) Supplementation - Alongside the suggestions above, giving your cat kidney supporting nutrients is an amazing way to ensure the kidneys stay strong and healthy. Make sure to look for supplements that contains scientifically backed active ingredients - so you know what you’re giving you kitty is doing good.

One such example of this is the Scruffy Paws Kidney Vitalize chews, the active ingredients inside them (Astragalus extract & Rhemannia extract) have been scientifically backed to maintain good kidney health, fight inflammation, and reduce proteinuria which is a leading market of kidney issues. (Click here to hear to the scientific backing of the product page)

 And thats not all, take a look at what some of our customers have said about the Kidney Vitalize Chews:

“I am so happy to have found your Kidney-Vitalize Chews. My 15 year old cat Cagney was losing weight and had his blood tested. It showed he was in the beginning stages of kidney disease. My vet suggested changing his diet to a prescription kidney friendly one. I had also seen your product advertised on social media. I ordered a jar and Cagney loved it and it seems to have given him his appetite back.”

- Nancy H 


“My cat bootsie seems to be doing better already! I think she has put on a little weight, more energy and hasnt had any problems urinating. I break up a chew and mix it in with her morning and afternoon feeding. Thank you so much for your product!. And Bootsie thanks you too!"

- Rita A

"I brought my Nicholas 18 years old to the vet today to have his creatine levels checked and they seem to have improved. I've had him on the chews for around a month. I'm totally thrilled with them"

- Anita S

We definitely suggest taking a look at the chews (click the button below to learn more!)

The staging system for CKD ranges from mild to severe and again although it may not be possible to prevent your cat reaching the severe stage of CKD, understanding the symptoms present with CKD may help you to spots the signs and get an earlier diagnosis. These include but are not limited to:

1) Loss of weight

2) A lack of interest in food or a reduced appetite

3) Signs of dehydration, including: dry gums and when your cats skin on the back of their neck does not spring back rapidly after being lifted

4) An increase in thirst

5) An increase in urination

6) Signs of lethargy and appearing more tired than usual

7) Vomiting and or constipation

8) Signs of mouth ulcers developing, which can lead to bad breath

A cat diagnosed with CKD at any stage can continue to live a healthy, happy life for many years to come. And with the correct treatment many cats maintain only a mild form of the condition for a considerable period. However the earlier the illness is detected the better.

Hopefully this article gave you better idea of the causes, symptoms and a few important tips on how to either keep CKD at bay… or at lease prevent it diagnosing it early in your furball.

Remember, if you ever have any concerns about your cat’s health, it is always best to book an appointment with your vet. They will be able to answer any of your questions and give you peace of mind.