Management of Chronic Renal Disease – Journal Club

Sad british shorthair silver cat lies on silver reflector on owner's bed.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is the most common kidney disease in cats, estimated to affect 0.5-1.5% of the general population and 30% of cats over 15 years.

The term CKD or chronic renal disease is non-specific, but preferred to “chronic renal failure” or “chronic renal insufficiency” as owners understand the terminology and the negative context imbued by “failure” is avoided.

Guidelines for staging cats with CKD were established by the International Renal Interest Society (IRIS) and provide a useful classification system for ongoing monitoring and information on expected outcome.

CKD stagingis based on serum/plasma creatinine concentration and recently, symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) has also been included in the guidelines.

It is important to note that the specificity of SDMA has not been tested in large scale prospective studies.

A recent study compared SDMA, creatinine and glomerular filtration rate in 49 cats that were normal or had CKD or diabetes mellitus (Brans et al JVIM2020). SDMA was a reliable marker of reduced GFR but superiority of SDMA over creatinine could be demonstrated…

READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE

Patient Stories

Our commitment to feline health is best seen in the stories of the cats we’ve had the privilege of treating. These journeys highlight the dedication, expertise and compassion that drive us.

Each patient faced unique challenges, and it was our honour to offer high-quality care and help them regain strength and happiness. We value the deep bonds with cats and their owners, knowing the difference we make in their lives.

See All Stories

Tango Triumphs Over FIP

At 5 months old, Tango was diagnosed with Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP). Once considered a fatal disease, the introduction of new treatments has significantly boosted the survival rate.

Toffee Survives Tick Paralysis

Toffee faced a frightening battle with tick paralysis and aspiration pneumonia, she was rushed to AES when her owners noticed her vomiting, breathing difficulties and trouble walking.

JJ & the Lily – a close call

Mischievous JJ had a close call when he ingested part of a lily—an extremely toxic plant for cats. Thanks to the quick actions of his owner, Sophie, a VSS vet nurse, JJ made a full recovery.

Han’s Hip Fracture Surgery

Han presented after limping on his hind leg for two weeks following an accident at home. An X-ray revealed a fractured growth plate in his hip, requiring surgery to repair the injury.

Coco and Kidney Troubles

Coco stayed with us at CSS while recovering from a nephrectomy (the surgical kidney removal). After months of unsuccessful treatment for a ureteral obstruction, this became necessary.

Contacting Us

Pet Owners
If you would like to talk about treatment for your cat, call us on 1300 228 377 or fill in the form.
In an emergency, please contact your local vet.

Vets and Nurses
To refer a patient or book a telehealth consultation please call us on 1300 228 377, book through the portal or fill in the form. For advice calls, please see the guidelines here.

1300 228 377

1-15 Lexington Rd,
Underwood, QLD, AU, 4119

Monday-Friday: 8 am-6 pm
Saturday/Sunday - Closed