Chronic Kidney Disease in Dogs & Cats: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Care [2025]
Chronic kidney disease is one of the most common conditions in senior dogs and cats. Regular monitoring of kidney function, early detection, and dietary management can help slow disease progression.
When to See a Vet
Seek Emergency Care Immediately
- •Persistent vomiting for more than 24 hours and unable to eat
- •Severe lethargy and difficult to rouse
- •Seizures or brief loss of consciousness
Schedule a Vet Visit Soon (within 24–72 hours)
- •Noticeably reduced appetite lasting more than 48 hours
- •Significant change in drinking or urination frequency
- •Persistent depression and decreased activity
01What symptoms indicate a problem?
Chronic kidney disease in dogs and cats often presents as non-specific, chronic or gradually worsening signs. Early stages may be subtle — watch for changes in behaviour and daily habits.
- Lethargy, reduced activity, or resting more than usual
- Persistent or intermittent vomiting, occasional diarrhoea with signs of dehydration
- Reduced appetite, becoming a picky eater, or gradual weight loss
- Changes in water intake or urination frequency (may increase or decrease)
- Bad breath, oral ulcers, or changes in gum colour or appearance
- If any of the above signs are present, an early veterinary consultation and check-up is recommended
Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:
- ⚠️ Continuous vomiting for more than 24 hours and inability to eat
- ⚠️ Severe lethargy, unresponsiveness, or extreme drowsiness
- ⚠️ Seizures, severe trembling, or brief loss of consciousness
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02How can I tell if something is wrong? What to watch at home and when to go to the emergency vet
Systematically recording behavioural and physical changes at home helps your vet quickly assess the condition and plan the right tests.
- Track your pet's alertness and activity level daily (e.g. reluctance to play)
- Weigh your pet at a consistent time each day and record the trend
- Note the frequency, timing, and appearance of vomit (photos or video recommended)
- Record how often your pet urinates and estimate the volume each time (video is helpful)
- Track how many times your pet drinks each day and how much they consume
- If you notice anything unusual, capture it on video and bring it to the vet appointment
03How will the vet diagnose this? Common tests and procedures
Your vet will combine a full history with multiple tests to assess kidney function, identify complications, and determine the underlying cause — advanced imaging or specialist referral may be arranged if needed.
Complete physical examination, including abdominal and kidney area palpation
Blood biochemistry panel to evaluate kidney markers and electrolyte status
Urinalysis (including urine specific gravity, sediment examination, and urine protein assessment)
Blood pressure measurement to assess kidney and cardiovascular strain
Abdominal ultrasound to evaluate kidney size, structure, and surrounding organs
X-rays or CT scan to assess complications or structural abnormalities
Kidney biopsy if needed to further clarify the underlying cause
Referral to a veterinary team with nephrology experience is recommended for advanced assessment
04How is it treated and managed after diagnosis? Medications, diet, and home care guide
Management of chronic kidney disease focuses on supportive care and slowing progression. Regular blood tests, urinalysis, and blood pressure monitoring are needed to adjust the care plan over time.
- Subcutaneous or intravenous fluid therapy to correct dehydration and electrolyte imbalances during acute episodes
- Symptomatic treatment such as anti-nausea medication to maintain appetite and hydration
- Nutritional management with a renal prescription diet or low-phosphorus food as appropriate
- Regular blood and urine testing to monitor kidney function and treatment response
- Blood pressure control and management of potential complications (such as anaemia and electrolyte imbalances)
- Follow-up appointments and further imaging or specialist review as recommended by your vet
- Establishing a long-term monitoring plan with a nephrology-experienced veterinary team is advised
05What should I prepare before the vet visit? Key information to help the vet assess your pet quickly
This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.