Tanya

 

 

 

 

 

TANYA'S

COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE TO

FELINE CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE

 

Please note that all payments are made in US dollars and

are not tax deductible since I am a private individual

 

Just Diagnosed? Click Here

 

 

   

SITE OVERVIEW

 

HOME


Site Overview


Just Diagnosed? What You Need to Know First


 

 

WHAT IS CKD?


What Happens in CKD


Causes of CKD


How Bad is It?


Is There Any Hope?


Acute Kidney Injury


 

KEY ISSUES: PROLONGING LIFE


Phosphorus Control


Hypertension

(High Blood Pressure)


Proteinuria


Anaemia


Potassium Imbalances


Pyelonephritis (Kidney Infections) and Urinary Tract Infections NEW


Metabolic Acidosis


Kidney Stones


 

KEY ISSUES: HELPING YOUR CAT FEEL BETTER


Nausea, Vomiting, Appetite Loss and Excess Stomach Acid


Maintaining Hydration


The B Vitamins (Including Methylcobalamin)


Constipation


 

CAT FOOD DATA


Ways of Assessing Food Content, Including What is Dry Matter Analysis


How to Use the Food Data Tables


USA Canned Food Data


USA Dry Food Data


USA Cat Food Brands: Helpfulness Ratings


USA Cat Food Brands: Contact Details


 

SUPPORT


Coping with CKD


Tanya's Support Group


Success Stories


 

SYMPTOMS


Important: Crashing


Alphabetical List of Symptoms and Treatments


Fluid and Urinary  Imbalances (Dehydration, Overhydration and Urinary Issues)


Waste Product Regulation Imbalances (Vomiting, Appetite Loss, Excess Stomach Acid, Gastro-intestinal Problems, Mouth Ulcers Etc.)


Phosphorus and Calcium Imbalances


Miscellaneous Symptoms (Pain, Hiding Etc.)


 

DIAGNOSIS: WHAT DO ALL THE TEST RESULTS MEAN?


Early Detection


Blood Chemistry: Kidney Function, Potassium, Other Tests (ALT, Amylase, (Cholesterol, Etc.)


Calcium, Phosphorus, Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) and Secondary Hyperparathyroidism


Complete Blood Count (CBC): Red and White Blood Cells: Anaemia and Infection


Urinalysis (Urine Tests)


Other Tests: Ultrasound, Biopsy, X-rays etc.


Renomegaly (Enlarged Kidneys)


Which Tests to Have and Frequency of Testing


Factors that Affect Test Results


Normal Ranges


International and US Measuring Systems


 

TREATMENTS


Which Treatments are Essential


Fluid and Urinary Issues (Fluid Retention, Infections, Incontinence, Proteinuria)


Waste Product Regulation (Mouth Ulcers, GI Bleeding, Antioxidants, Adsorbents, Azodyl, Astro's CRF Oil)


Phosphorus, Calcium and Secondary Hyperparathyroidism (Calcitriol)


Phosphorus Binders


Steroids, Stem Cell Transplants and Kidney Transplants


Antibiotics and Painkillers


Holistic Treatments (Including Slippery Elm Bark)


ESAs (Aranesp, Epogen etc.) for Severe Anaemia


General Health Issues in a CKD Cat: Fleas, Arthritis, Dementia, Vaccinations


Tips on Medicating Your Cat


Obtaining Supplies Cheaply in the UK, USA and Canada


Working with Your Vet and Recordkeeping


 

DIET & NUTRITION


Nutritional Requirements of CKD Cats


The B Vitamins (Including Methylcobalamin)


What to Feed (and What to Avoid)


Persuading Your Cat to Eat


2007 Food Recall USA


 

FLUID THERAPY


Oral Fluids


Intravenous Fluids


Subcutaneous Fluids


Tips on Giving Subcutaneous Fluids


How to Give Subcutaneous Fluids with a Giving Set


How to Give Subcutaneous Fluids with a Syringe


Subcutaneous Fluids - Winning Your Vet's Support


Dialysis


 

 

RELATED DISEASES


Heart Problems


Hyperthyroidism


Diabetes


Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)


Pancreatitis


Dental Problems


Anaesthesia


 

OBTAINING SUPPLIES CHEAPLY


UK


USA Online


USA Local (Fluids)


Canada


 

SAYING GOODBYE


The Final Hours


Other People's Losses


Coping with Your Loss


 

MISCELLANEOUS


Prevention


Feline CKD Research, Including Participation Opportunities


CKD Research in Other Species


Share This Site: A Notice for Your Vet's Bulletin Board or Your Local Pet Shop


Canine Kidney Disease


Other Illnesses (Cancer, Liver) and Behavioural Problems


Diese Webseite auf Deutsch


 

SITEOWNER (HELEN)


My Three CKD Cats: Tanya, Thomas and Ollie


Contact Me


Home > Site Overview


Finding What You Need


 

This site has a pretty simple structure, but it does contain a lot of information. This page is therefore a brief overview of the various categories in the lefthand sidebar, telling you what each page contains. If you're trying to find something and you're still stuck, try the Search function (top left).

 


Home


 

Page

Contents

Last Updated

Just Diagnosed? What You Need To Know First

An overview of what the bloodtests mean, which symptoms you may see, and which treatments you may be offered. This page is designed to be a starting point for those new to CKD, especially if you are feeling overwhelmed by the CKD diagnosis, though it could also be a handy refresher later on.

25 Aug 2020

 


What is CKD?


 

What Happens in CKD

 

A simple explanation of the kidney's functions, and what happens to them in CKD. This page also briefly discusses how much function is required, and why cats are often not diagnosed until over two thirds of kidney function have already been lost.

30 Jun 2020

Causes of CKD

Information about the causes of CKD, both proven and suspected. Once CKD is present, it is treated in the same way whatever the cause (except for glomerulonephritis, when additional treatments may be appropriate); so if you're tight for time, skip this page. Also skip this page if you're on a guilt trip: you did not cause your cat's CKD through e.g. your food choices.

13 Nov 2020

How Bad Is It?

Information on how severe your cat's case might be, and a brief discussion about the concept of end stage renal failure.

04 Mar 2023

Is There Any Hope?

Discusses the various scenarios you might be facing, including what to do if your cat worsens suddenly.

25 Jun 2020

Acute Kidney Injury

Acute kidney injury (acute renal failure) is a kind of kidney problem that comes on suddenly, usually because of an "insult" to the kidneys. It is difficult to treat, but some cats do make a complete recovery, though others will be left with residual damage (CKD).

05 Mar 2023

 


Key Issues: Helping Your Cat Live Longer


 

Key Issues Overview

If you're feeling overwhelmed, this is probably the best page to start with. This page gives an overview of the main issues of concern for CKD cats. If you focus on any of these issues that are present, you greatly increase your cat's chances of survival. The other pages in this chapter go into more detail about these issues.

24 Aug 2020

Phosphorus Control

High phosphorus levels in bloodtest results can make a CKD cat feel ill and may make the CKD progress faster. Even if the level is within normal range, this may not be enough. This page discusses the symptoms of high phosphorus levels and the possible treatments.

18 Mar 2023

Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

66% of CKD cats develop hypertension. It can make a cat feel rough, and in the worst case, the cat may go blind or have a stroke. Fortunately it is easily treated. This page covers possible symptoms and explains which is the best treatment.

31 Mar 2023

Proteinuria

Proteinuria means excess levels of protein in the urine. This can make the CKD progress faster. It can be difficult to treat, but possible treatment options include ACE inhibitors or ARBs (e.g. Fortekor)

13 Sep 2020

Anaemia 

Anaemia may develop for various reasons. Fortunately it is usually easy to control. This page discusses why CKD cats can become anaemic and describes commonly used treatments.

14 May 2023

Potassium

CKD cats often have an imbalance in their potassium levels. Most of them have levels which are too low, which can cause a number of problems, especially back leg weakness. This page discusses symptoms of a potassium imbalance and how to treat low or high potassium levels.

24 Jun 2021

Pyelonephritis (Kidney Infections) and Urinary Tract Infections

Kidney and urinary tract infections are common in CKD cats, but not always easy to detect. This page discusses symptoms, diagnosis and treatments.

13 Nov 2020

Metabolic Acidosis

Metabolic acidosis means the cat's body is too acidic (which has nothing to do with stomach acid). It is quite common in CKD cats, usually in those with more advanced CKD, and this page explains more about the problem and how to deal with it.

11 Aug 2020

Kidney Stones

Some cats develop kidney stones, which may cause or worsen CKD. This page discusses the various treatment options.

12 Nov 2020

 


Key Issues: Helping Your Cat Feel Better


 

Key Issues Overview

If you're feeling overwhelmed, this is probably the best page to start with. This page gives an overview of the main issues of concern for CKD cats. If you focus on any of these issues that are present, you greatly increase your cat's comfort level. The other pages in this chapter go into more detail about these issues.

24 Aug 2020

Appetite Loss, Nausea and Vomiting

Most CKD cats have problems with vomiting, nausea and appetite loss. This page describes the possible symptoms and various treatments available for these problems.

26 Nov 2024

Maintaining Hydration

This is eventually a problem for most CKD cats. This section discusses the various types of fluid therapy available.

30 Jun 2020

The B Vitamins (Including Methylcobalamin)

CKD cats lose Vitamin B through increased urination. This page explains how supplementation, particularly of Vitamin B12 in the form of methylcobalamin, can help with problems such as anaemia and appetite loss.

13 Sep 2020

Constipation

Constipation is quite common in CKD cats and can make a cat feel very uncomfortable. This page describes symptoms and treatments.

27 May 2022

 


Cat Food Data


 

Ways of Assessing Food Content, Including What is Dry Matter Analysis

If your cat refuses to eat therapeutic kidney foods, it can help to know the content, particularly the phosphorus content, of other cat foods. This page explains how and why I analyse the foods using Dry Matter Analysis (DMA), and gives a brief overview of what to consider when choosing a food.

12 Jun 2020

How to Use the Food Data Tables

This page explains how to use the food data tables contained in this chapter.

12 Jun 2020

USA Canned Food Data

Analysis of the phosphorus, protein, sodium, fat  and carbohydrate content of a number of canned and pouch foods in the USA, many of which are also available in Canada. This is purely a list in order of phosphorus content, not a recommendation of any of these foods.

27 Sep 2022

USA Dry Food Data

Analysis of the phosphorus, protein, sodium, fat  and carbohydrate content of a number of dry foods in the USA, many of which are also available in Canada. This is purely a list in order of phosphorus content, not a recommendation of any of these foods.

15 Nov 2020

USA Cat Food Brands: Helpfulness Ratings

How helpful I have found the various US cat food brands to be when I have tried to obtain information about their cats foods for my food data tables. This does not rate the food in any way. NOTE: currently not available.

18 Apr 2017

USA Cat Food Brands: Contact Details

Contact details for the main cat food manufacturers in the USA.

09 Jan 2017

 


Support


 

Coping with CKD

It can be emotionally draining dealing with CKD, so this page gives tips on how to cope with the ups and downs of the CKD rollercoaster, including worrying about the future, and how to deal with practical issues, including financial concerns.

11 Nov 2020

Tanya's Support Group

I have set up an online support group which is free to join. This page explains how to join and how the group works.

13 Sep 2020

Success Stories

The stories of some CKD cats, all of whom have led high quality and, in most cases, long lives despite having CKD. Includes cases of young cats, cats with kidney stones, cats with acute kidney injury etc.

26 Jun 2014

 


Symptoms


 

Symptoms

A brief overview of this chapter, but also contains important information on what crashing means and the meatloaf position (including photos).

21 May 2020

Alphabetical Index of Symptoms and Treatments

There are many possible symptoms of CKD. This page lists the symptoms which you may see in alphabetical order, and provides quick links to more information for each symptom and the relevant treatment. 

21 Jul 2020

Fluid and Urinary Imbalances

Fluid and urinary imbalances are common in CKD. This page describes symptoms of dehydration, symptoms of overhydration, and urinary issues, such as blood in the urine.

06 Sep 2021

Waste Product Regulation Imbalances

This page describes the symptoms you might see relating to problems with waste product regulation, such as vomiting, gastrointestinal problems, mouth ulcers etc.

12 Sep 2020

Phosphorus and Calcium Imbalances

These are frequent problems in CKD cats. This page discusses possible symptoms, such as twitching or seizures.

04 Apr 2023

Miscellaneous Symptoms

Discusses symptoms such as pain, hiding and changes in the coat or skin. 

16 Sep 2022

 


Diagnosis


 

Early Detection

Normally, CKD cannot be detected before 66% of kidney function is already gone. This page discusses possible methods of early detection of CKD.

04 Mar 2023

Blood Chemistry: Kidney Function, Potassium and Various Other Tests

Explains the meaning of these tests, such as  BUN, creatinine, azotaemia, potassium, magnesium etc.

04 Mar 2023

Calcium, Phosphorus, Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) and Secondary Hyperparathyroidism

Imbalances in phosphorus and calcium levels are extremely common in CKD cats. This page explains more, and includes a discussion of high calcium levels, ionised calcium and calcification.

03 Apr 2023

Complete Blood Count (CBC): Red and White Blood Cells

Discusses the tests which indicate whether infection or inflammation are present and those which indicate anaemia and its severity.

13 Sep 2020

Urinalysis (Urine Tests)

This page explains more about obtaining urine samples and what these indicate, including urine specific gravity (USG) and blood in the urine.

13 Nov 2020

Other Tests

Discusses other tests which are sometimes used, such as ultrasound, x-rays, biopsy, intravenous pyelogram etc.

13 Sep 2020

Renomegaly (Enlarged Kidneys)

Explains the possible causes of this problem.

22 Jun 2020

Which Tests to Have and Frequency of Testing

Discusses which tests are the most useful, and how often to test.

22 Jun 2021

Factors that Affect Test Results

Explains more about factors such as fasting before tests, and how the handling of the blood may affect the results.

22 Jun 2020

Normal Ranges

A rough guide to normal ranges for the various tests in the USA and the rest of the world.

13 Sep 2020

International and US Measuring Systems

The USA uses a different measuring system to the rest of the world. This page explains more about this and how to convert values from one system to the other.

22 Jun 2020

 


Treatments


 

Which Treatments are Essential

There are so many treatment options that it can seem overwhelming. This page explains which are the most important treatments, which may be necessary in some circumstances, and which are optional or not recommended.

20 Jul 2020

Fluid and Urinary Issues

Covers fluid retention and overhydration, incontinence and inappropriate elimination.

06 Jul 2020

Waste Product Regulation

Treatments for problems such as mouth ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding and diarrhoea. Discusses methods of reducing CKD toxins, including antioxidants, adsorbents, probiotics, prebiotics, Azodyl or Renadyl, and Astro's CRF Oil or Nitrogen Scrub.

07 Oct 2021

Phosphorus Binders

Covers the various phosphorus binders that may be used in CKD cats.

17 Mar 2023

Phosphorus, Calcium and Secondary Hyperparathyroidism

Explains more about how to manage these problems, including high calcium levels. Discusses the use of calcitriol.

07 Mar 2023

Steroids, Stem Cell Transplants and kidney Transplants

Discusses steroids (both anabolic and corticosteroids), stem cell transplants, and kidney transplants.

10 Jul 2020

Antibiotics and Painkillers

 

Discusses commonly used antibiotics (Baytril, Convenia, Clindamycin and Clavamox/Synulox) and painkillers, including meloxicam (Metacam). It includes a treatment protocol should your cat have been given too much meloxicam and developed acute kidney injury.

31 Oct 2020

Holistic Treatments

Describes some treatments which are not mainstream but which have proven to be effective for many CKD cats, such as slippery elm bark and acupuncture. Also explains which treatments may not be appropriate.

08 Jun 2022

Erythropoiesis Stimulating Agents (ESAs) for Severe Anaemia

Explains more about using ESAs to treat severe anaemia (PCV or HCT under 20%). Commonly used products are Epogen, Eprex, Aranesp (darbepoetin), Procrit or Neorecormon.

17 Jun 2021

General Health Issues in a CKD Cat

 

Covers standard feline health issues as they apply to CKD cats, such as vaccinations and flea treatments. Also discusses arthritis treatments and cognitive dysfunction (feline dementia or kitty Alzheimers).

07 Jun 2022

Tips on Medicating Your Cat

Tips on how to medicate your cat with minimal stress for both of you.

07 Sep 2020

Working with Your Vet

This page has suggestions on how to work with your vet as a team, and how to get a second opinion. It also explains the benefits of keeping your own records.

29 Aug 2020

 


Obtaining Supplies Cheaply


 

UK

Where to obtain fluid supplies, medications and therapeutic kidney food at reasonable prices in the UK.

04 Sep 2020

USA

Where to obtain fluid supplies, medications and therapeutic kidney food at reasonable prices in the USA.

06 Sep 2020

USA Local Fluids

Where to obtain fluid supplies at local pharmacies in the USA.

06 Sep 2020

Canada

Where to obtain fluid supplies, medications and therapeutic kidney food at reasonable prices in Canada.

31 Oct 2020

 


Diet and Nutrition


 

Nutritional Requirements of CKD Cats

Discusses the dietary and nutritional needs of CKD cats. Includes a discussion of the reduced protein debate, and explains why reduced protein is not necessarily a good idea for cats in the early stages of CKD.

26 Nov 2020

Which Foods to Feed and Which to Avoid

Tips on how to introduce a therapeutic kidney diet, and what your options are if your cat refuses to eat it. Also explains why certain foods, such as tuna or garlic, are not appropriate for cats.

27 Sep 2022

Persuading Your Cat To Eat

This page tackles the common problem of persuading your CKD cat to eat, and how to get additional nourishment into him/her.

08 Oct 2021

2007 Food Recall USA

In 2007, a number of cats in the USA (and later in some other countries) suddenly began developing kidney failure. Some of them died. Some cats survived but were left with CKD. The problem was eventually traced to cat food ingredients imported from China. This page explains more about the scandal.

27 May 2020

 


Fluid Therapy


 

Oral Fluids

Maintaining hydration is very important for CKD cats. This page gives a brief overview of the different fluid therapies (oral fluids, intravenous fluids and subcutaneous fluids), and explains which is used when.

12 Nov 2020

Intravenous Fluids

Intravenous fluids (IV fluids, or a drip) are given into a vein, and are therefore usually given in hospital. For this reason they are normally reserved for crisis situations, such as when a cat crashes. They are also commonly used before, during and after surgery.

27 Mar 2023

Subcutaneous Fluids

Subcutaneous fluids (sub-Qs or sub-cuts) are given under the skin and can therefore be given at home. They are used to maintain hydration. Generally speaking, CKD cats benefit from subcutaneous fluids once their creatinine is over 3.5 mg/dl (US) or 300 µmol/l (international).

22 Jun 2021

Tips on Giving Subcutaneous Fluids

This page gives an overview of the various sorts of fluids (lactated ringers solution, saline etc.). It also provides tips on which needles to use, how to keep your cat calm, and generally how to make the process easier for you both.

22 Jun 2021

How to Give Subcutaneous Fluids with a Giving Set

A photographic demonstration of how to give sub-Qs using a giving set, the method commonly used in the USA.

01 Jul 2020

How to Give Subcutaneous Fluids with a Syringe

A photographic demonstration of how to give sub-Qs using a syringe, the method usually recommended in the UK. It shows how you don't have to stick your cat multiple times!

01 Jul 2020

Winning Your Vet's Support

In the UK in particular, it can be extremely hard to find a vet who permits you to use sub-Qs at home. This page discusses commonly used objections and how you can try to counter these.

01 Jul 2020

Dialysis

Description of peritoneal dialysis, haemodialysis and continuous renal replacement therapy. These treatments cost thousands, so are rarely performed on cats, but the information is provided in case of need.

05 Mar 2023

 


Related Diseases


 

Heart Problems

Heart problems are not unusual in older cats, so you may find yourself dealing with these as well as CKD. This page explains the different types of heart problem, describes the various heart medications that may be used, and discusses how to balance treatment for both CKD and heart problems.

12 Nov 2020

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism means that the thyroid is overactive, so the body's metabolic processes are in overdrive, causing a variety of different problems. Treating hyperthyroidism is therefore essential, but must be done cautiously because treating it may unmask existing but hidden CKD. This page explains more about hyperthyroidism and how to juggle both conditions.

08 Jun 2022

Diabetes

Diabetes is relatively common in CKD cats. It is usually manageable. This page discusses the various treatments available and how to balance the dietary needs of a cat with both CKD and diabetes.

12 Nov 2020

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas. It is fairly common in CKD cats, and shares some of the same symptoms. If your cat has relatively low creatinine levels but is acting sicker than you would expect, with vomiting and severe appetite loss, read this page.

06 May 2020

Polycystic Kidney Disease

PKD is a genetic disease in which cysts form in the kidneys. It is most commonly found in Persian cats. It can eventually lead to CKD. This page explains more about the condition.

08 Jun 2022

Dental Problems

Most cats eventually develop dental problems, and many of them eventually need surgery. This page explains how to reduce the risk of dental problems, and what precautions are necessary in cats who need dental surgery.

11 Nov 2020

Anaesthesia

Information on anaesthesia and the precautions that should be followed for CKD cats having surgery performed under general anaesthesia.

11 Nov 2020

 


Saying Goodbye


 

The Final Hours

Since CKD is ultimately terminal, eventually you will have to say goodbye to your cat. This page contains information on facing up to this painful parting, and explains the symptoms and behaviour which you may see in your cat's last few days or hours. This page also contains a discussion on whether to opt for euthanasia, and a description of what to expect during the procedure if so.

11 Nov 2020

Coping with Your Loss

This page contains information on how to cope with your grief after you say goodbye, and where to find support. 

02 Sep 2020

Other People's Losses

This page consists of descriptions from a few brave people of what they and their cat experienced towards the end, and why in most cases they opted for euthanasia. 

02 Jan 2012

 

Miscellaneous


 

Prevention

In most cases you cannot prevent CKD. However, there are a few steps you can take to reduce the risks, which this page discusses.

29 Apr 2020

Feline CKD Research, Including Participation Opportunities

Describes various research studies in which it is possible to participate. You have to attend the research location for some but not all of the studies.

15 May 2020

CKD Research In Other Species

This page discusses ongoing research into CKD and AKI in other species.

15 May 2020

Canine Kidney Disease

I have no personal experience of canine CKD but this page provides links to information.

13 Jul 2020

Other Illnesses (Cancer, Liver) and Behavioural Problems

Links to information about general feline health issues, cancer, liver disease and behavioural problems.

13 Sep 2020

CKD Flier

A notice for your vet's bulletin board or your local pet shop to let other people with CKD cats know about Tanya's website.

12 Nov 20

Diese Webseite auf Deutsch

This site is also available in German.

Wo Sie diese Webseite auf Deutsch finden können.

12 May 2020

 


Siteowner — Helen


 

My Three CKD Cats: Tanya, Thomas and Ollie

Tells the contrasting stories of my three CKD cats.

29 Jul 2020

Contact Me

How to get in touch with me.

27 Nov 2024

 

 

 

Back to Page Index

This page last updated: 27 November 2024

Links on this page last checked: 04 March 2020

   

 

*****

 

TREATING YOUR CAT WITHOUT VETERINARY ADVICE CAN BE EXTREMELY DANGEROUS.

 

I have tried very hard to ensure that the information provided in this website is accurate, but I am NOT a vet, just an ordinary person who has lived through CKD with three cats. This website is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to be used to diagnose or treat any cat. Before trying any of the treatments described herein, you MUST consult a qualified veterinarian and obtain professional advice on the correct regimen for your cat and his or her particular requirements; and you should only use any treatments described here with the full knowledge and approval of your vet. No responsibility can be accepted.

 

If your cat appears to be in pain or distress, do not waste time on the internet, contact your vet immediately.

 

*****

Copyright © Tanya's Feline CKD Website 2000-2024. All rights reserved.

 

This site was created using Microsoft software, and therefore it is best viewed in Internet Explorer. I know it doesn't always display too well in other browsers, but I'm not an IT expert so I'm afraid I don't know how to change that. I would love it to display perfectly everywhere, but my focus is on making the information available. When I get time, I'll try to improve how it displays in other browsers.

 

This site is a labour of love. Please do not steal from me by taking credit for my work.

If you wish to link to this site, please feel free to do so. Please make it clear that this is a link and not your own work. I would appreciate being informed of your link.