Vet Times

Cat Drinking from tap

Phosphate levels in chronic kidney disease

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Cat Drinking from tap
Diagnosing CKD before the appearance of clinical signs is difficult, as no symptoms will be seen until approximately 70% of renal function is lost. However, common signs include increased thirst (polydipsia) and excessive urination (polyuria).

The overall aim is to maintain the phosphate concentration in the lower end of normal range: <1.45mmol/l.

IRIS (International Renal Interest Society) specify exact targets for each stage of CKD (two months post-start of treatment).

CKD Stage 1:  0.81-1.20
CKD Stage 2:  0.81-1.45
CKD Stage 3:  0.81-1.61
CKD Stage 4:  0.81-1.94

For all cats with CKD, the vet and owner should aim to:

  • increase the cat’s fluid intake
  • manage the diet with renal diet and/or phosphate binders
  • restrict phosphorous, which will improve quality and quality of life
  • use anti-hypertensive treatment if cats have increased blood pressure
  • consider ACE inhibitors in cats with proteinuria (UPC>0.4)
  • employ symptomatic treatment of any other complications

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