Kidney Disease in Cats: Early Warning Signs Owners Miss

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is one of the most common conditions we encounter in cats as they age at Partners Animal Hospital – Fruitville. The good news: when caught early, we can take steps to slow progression and maintain quality of life. The key is recognizing the subtle signs before the disease becomes advanced.

Why cats get kidney disease
Cats’ kidneys slowly lose function over time due to age-related changes, genetics, or other factors (such as high blood pressure, urinary obstruction, infection or toxin exposure). Because cats often mask illness, the disease may advance before owners notice anything wrong. Routine wellness exams including bloodwork and urinalysis are vital for early detection.

Early warning signs to look for
These signs are often subtle and may seem nonspecific, but when viewed together they can point toward early kidney disease:

• Increased thirst and urination (your cat may ask for water more often, urine box use may become more frequent)
• Mild weight loss or subtle change in body condition
• Decreased appetite, or being picky
• Increase in vomiting episodes or hairballs
  Mild lethargy or decreased playful behavior
• Bad breath (uremic odor) or subtle gum changes

Because cats hide illness, these signs may be dismissed as “just getting older.” We encourage you to mention them at your next visit.

What we do at the clinic
During annual (or twice-yearly) wellness visits we may recommend:

• Blood chemistry to evaluate kidney values (BUN, creatinine) plus phosphorus, potassium, calcium.
• Urinalysis to assess concentrating ability and detect proteinuria or infection.
• Blood pressure measurement (high blood pressure often accompanies kidney disease).
• Advanced diagnostics if needed (imaging, SDMA test, ultrasound). 

Once a diagnosis of CKD (or early impaired renal function) is made, we craft a personalized plan that may include:

• Prescription renal diet (lower phosphorus, higher quality protein, more hydration support)
• Increased water intake (wet food, water fountains, multiple water stations)
• Phosphorus binders if levels are elevated
• Blood pressure management
• Monitoring and treating secondary complications (anemia, high phosphorus, etc.)
• Frequent re-checks every 3–6 months (or more often in later stages) to monitor progression.
  
  

How you can help at home

• Offer wet food or mix in water to increase hydration—cats with kidney disease do better when well hydrated.
• Encourage frequent drinking: provide fresh water in multiple locations, consider a water fountain (cats often prefer flowing water).
• Monitor litter box habits: note increased volume or frequency of urination, any change in quality.
• Weigh your cat monthly or at least every few months to catch weight loss early.
  Maintain routine check-ups and bloodwork even if your cat seems “fine.” Prevention and early intervention matter.
• Avoid exposing your cat to toxins (e.g., antifreeze, certain plants, medications not meant for them) which can further damage kidneys.
  
  

Conclusion
Early detection of kidney disease gives your cat the best chance of a comfortable, quality life for as long as possible. At Partners Animal Hospital – Fruitville, we partner with you to catch these changes early and support you and your cat with a proactive, caring plan. If you’ve noticed any changes in your cat’s drinking, urination, appetite or weight — or if it’s time for that wellness visit — call us or book an appointment today! We’re here for your pet at every life stage.