Understanding Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Chronic Kidney Disease is one of the most common ailments in older cats. It is a progressive
loss of kidney function over time. Early signs often include increased drinking (polydipsia)
and increased urination (polyuria), along with subtle weight loss.
While CKD is irreducible, it is highly manageable. The primary intervention is dietary
modification—specifically lowering phosphorus intake and ensuring high-quality hydration.
Subcutaneous fluids can also be administered at home in later stages to maintain quality of
life for years.
Feline Diabetes: It's Not a Death Sentence
Diabetes in cats typically presents as Type 2—insulin resistance often linked to obesity and
high-carbohydrate dry food diets. Symptoms include excessive thirst, ravenous appetite, and
weight loss.
Unlike dogs, cats can actually go into remission ("diet-controlled") if caught early. The
protocol usually involves switching to a high-protein, low-carb wet food diet and temporary
insulin therapy. Monitoring blood glucose at home is now easier than ever with modern
sensors.
The Silent Killer: Hyperthyroidism
If your older cat is eating voraciously but losing weight, Hyperthyroidism is a prime
suspect. It is caused by a benign tumor on the thyroid gland that overproduces hormones,
sending the cat's metabolism into overdrive.
Left untreated, this damages the heart (thyrotoxic cardiomyopathy) and masks underlying
kidney issues. Treatments range from daily medication (Methimazole) to a permanent cure via
Radioactive Iodine Therapy (I-131), which is the gold standard.
Urinary Blockages in Male Cats
This is the single most critical emergency for male cats. Because their urethra is long and
narrow, crystalline grit (struvite or oxalate) can form a plug, making urination impossible.
This causes toxins to build up in the blood within hours.
Prevention is key: Hydration is the most important factor. Feeding wet food instead of dry
kibble drastically reduces the risk of crystal formation. If your male cat is ever "singing"
in the litter box or licking himself excessively, do not wait.
Feline Leukemia (FeLV) & FIV
Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) are retroviruses that
affect the immune system. While they sound scary, management has evolved significantly.
FIV+ cats can live normal lifespans indoors with good care. They are not "sick" until
secondary infections occur. FeLV is more serious, but regular vet checkups and keeping the
cat strictly indoors prevents spread and protects their compromised immune system.
The Truth About Dry Food
Cats are obligate carnivores. They have a low thirst drive because they evolved to get
moisture from their prey. Dry kibble contains very little water (~10%) compared to wet food
(~78%) or prey (~70%).
Feeding a strictly dry diet puts cats in a state of chronic low-level dehydration, which
contributes to CKD and urinary crystals. The single best thing you can do for your cat's
health is to incorporate high-moisture foods into their daily rotation.