Renal Problems In Cats

[Firefly]

I have searched for a 'pets' heading on the board index, but can't see one, (I'm sure there was one), so here goes.

My elderly cat, 15 yrs, has been diagnosed with kidney problems, pretty common in elderly cats I think, but up to now, I have never had a cat with this condition. I know that it's incurable, as I expect it to be part of the aging process, but I wondered if anyone else knows the best way to manage it. Pumpkin always has Royal Canin biscuits, and so I have now purchased their biscuits for renal care, but that said, what else, other than fresh water, is best to feed her? She is a very fussy eater, and the usual cat foods aren't appreciated by her. She is fond of cooked chicken from the supermarket, but I have a feeling it's maybe treated with a salty baste, but I might be wrong in that.

Does anyone know what best to feed cats for kidney care, in elderly cats please?

Sorry if this is in the wrong place Dominic.

Thanks, Jackie.

[Uncle D]

To manage renal (kidney) problems in cats, focus on veterinary care, a special diet, increased water intake, and supportive home care. Key management strategies include a prescribed therapeutic diet to reduce kidney workload, <v>fluid therapy</v> to maintain hydration and flush toxins, medications for symptoms like high blood pressure or nausea, and supplements such as phosphate binders and potassium. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for monitoring the disease's progression and adjusting treatment as needed.
Dietary Management
Therapeutic Renal Diet: A special diet with controlled levels of phosphorus, protein, and sodium helps reduce the workload on the kidneys.
Increased Water Intake: Encourage drinking by providing fresh water in multiple locations, offering wet food, and adding water to their food.
Calorie Density: High-calorie diets help cats get enough energy to prevent weight loss.
Medications & Supplements
Fluid Therapy: Subcutaneous (under the skin) fluids administered at home can combat dehydration and help flush toxins from the kidneys.
Phosphorus Binders: These are prescribed to control high phosphorus levels, a common issue with kidney disease.
Other Medications: Your vet may prescribe drugs to control blood pressure, stimulate appetite, reduce nausea, or manage other symptoms.
Supportive Home Care
Environmental Factors: Create a stress-free, calm environment to help your cat relax and feel more comfortable.
Multiple Food and Water Stations: Provide extra food and water bowls to make it easier for your cat to eat and drink.
Monitor Key Signs: Watch for changes in appetite, weight, and drinking or urinating habits, as these can signal disease progression or a need for a treatment adjustment.
Veterinary Care
Regular Check-ups: Consistent veterinary visits and monitoring with blood and urine tests are crucial to track the disease's progression.
Collaboration: Work closely with your veterinarian to develop a tailored management plan for your cat's specific needs and ensure their best quality of life.

[Dominic]

Can't help with the kitty issue but hope Pumpkin gets over their issues. Oh and I have no problem with you posting it here.

[Firefly]

David,

Thank you for the in depth cat care information, in the main, it seems to be fairly easy to adhere to, that said, having had a diabetic cat, who needed insulin injections twice daily, I don't relish the thought of fluid therapy, administered subcutaneously.

Dominic

Thank you. I expect it's just a matter of coping with her condition, bless her.

[Ams]

Good luck. I have been through it with a cat with chronic kidney disease, and unfortunately have to admit it got harder as time went on.

At the beginning she was ok with the special diet food, but got fussier as time went on and wouldn't eat it - and I tried many different brands. I can't offer much more advice than what Uncle D has posted, but recommend placing water bowls around the house, perhaps from different sources. It was winter and towards the end my cat preferred drinking out of puddles than from her water bowls. It may be worth getting a water fountain for cats as that encourages them to drink.

Increase her wet food as that includes water, and if you boil her some chicken try leaving a bit of water in with it.

And of course, give her lots of love and cuddles

[trevnhil]

Ams.. I think that is all good advice, and particularly like the Cat water fountain idea

[Dominic]

David,

Thank you for the in depth cat care information, in the main, it seems to be fairly easy to adhere to, that said, having had a diabetic cat, who needed insulin injections twice daily, I don't relish the thought of fluid therapy, administered subcutaneously.

Dominic

Thank you. I expect it's just a matter of coping with her condition, bless her.

Yes I know, but I always try and be optimistic in such matters. I remember when Mark died suddenly earlier in the year, it hit us all very hard, particularly as he was still fairly young. But pets are part of the family, and losing a loved one is never easy.

[Firefly]

Ams

Thank you for your input, especially as you have experienced this at first hand, sadly. I will look at buying a fountain for her, I hope she will use it as winter comes on, she's so fussy over everything. Her go to, is the birdbath in the garden, which I have to clean and refill daily.

Dominic

Thank you, our cats have always been part of the family, spoilt and pampered. It's very painful to face losing them. That said, she's a feisty madam, so who knows.