Chronic kidney disease (CKD)

Chronic kidney disease, or CKD, is a gradual, irreversible loss of kidney function, common in older animals and a leading concern in ageing cats in particular. It is staged using systems such as the IRIS classification, which guides management as the disease progresses (IRIS; veterinary literature). Nutritional management is central and is one of the best-supported dietary interventions in this condition: it focuses on controlling phosphorus intake and on protein quality rather than simply slashing protein, since adequate good-quality protein helps preserve [lean body mass](/glossary/lean-body-mass), while excess phosphorus accelerates decline. Therapeutic renal diets are prescribed and monitored by a vet, and they typically also adjust sodium, add omega-3 from marine sources, and support [dehydration](/glossary/dehydration) prevention, which is why encouraging water intake and [wet food](/glossary/wet-food) often matters for affected cats. Signs such as [polydipsia](/glossary/polydipsia), increased urination and weight loss can prompt diagnosis. The marker: CKD is managed, not cured, and a vet-prescribed renal diet balancing phosphorus and protein quality is a key foundation of slowing its course, distinct from the dietary ingredient [kidney](/glossary/kidney). It connects to the urinary and ageing themes running through the [Petipedia glossary](/glossary).

Petipedia · Editorial team

General documentary information. For an individual animal, a veterinarian's advice takes precedence over any online content.