In Part 3 of Mission RENAL, a series on Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) in pets, Dr. JD Foster, small animal internal medicine and nephrology expert joins to explain ways cat and dog owners can help support their pet with chronic kidney disease at home through nutrition, hydration, and monitoring. Sponsored by Royal Canin and Elanco, this guide empowers pet owners with Real Education for Navigating Advanced Longevity in dogs and cats with chronic kidney disease.
Caring for Pets with Chronic Kidney Disease Comfortably at Home
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) can be overwhelming for pet owners. The diagnosis brings daily management decisions, medications, diet changes, and emotional ups and downs. But as this episode emphasizes, home care is one of the most powerful tools owners have to support their pets’ longevity and comfort.
Dr. Foster treats kidney disease every day and understands that no two patients are the same.
“Every one of them is different… It’s not a one-treatment-fits-all approach,” he says. Owners like Bernie’s family, who bring a Tupperware tub of medications to every visit, show just how demanding home management can be. Keeping track of prescriptions, dosing schedules, and food changes takes time, patience, and guidance.
Nutrition: The Cornerstone of Home Care for Pets with Chronic Kidney Disease
Veterinary prescription kidney diets remain the single most proven intervention for slowing CKD progression. These diets are lower in protein and phosphorus, which helps the kidneys by reducing the amount of metabolic waste they must filter.
“All of the studies have shown that prescription kidney diets extend survival and delay disease progression,” says Dr. Foster.
Many cats and dogs enjoy these diets — but not all. Palatability can be a challenge. With over 30 prescription renal diets on the market, variety is key. There are loafs, stews, chunks, and pâté textures, plus dry and canned versions.
Tips for success:
Start renal diets early (even in Stage 1 CKD).
Try multiple textures and brands.
Mix canned and dry foods for variety.
Ask your vet or a nutritionist for a balanced homemade renal diet if needed.
Hydration: The Lifeline for Pets with Chronic Kidney Disease
As chronic kidney disease progresses, cats and dogs lose their ability to concentrate urine, leading to increased thirst and urination. Dehydration worsens kidney function, creating a vicious cycle. Providing additional hydration through food and water sources can help slow the progression of chronic kidney disease.
Dr. Foster stresses that subcutaneous fluids should be a last resort, not the first tool. Instead, focus on hydration through food and daily habits:
Provide multiple water bowls throughout the home.
Try water fountains if your cat prefers running water.
Feed canned food (≈80% water) instead of dry food (≈18%).
Gradually add water to food — a teaspoon at a time.
Use a small amount of tuna juice, chicken broth, or Purina HydroCare to encourage drinking if recommended by your veterinarian.
“You can train cats to eat soup,” Dr. Foster says. “If you go slowly, they won’t even notice the difference.”
Managing Medications at Home for Pets with Chronic Kidney Disease
Many pets with chronic kidney disease may receive several medications, including blood pressure meds, phosphate binders, appetite stimulants, anti-nausea drugs, and more.
That can be stressful for owners and confusing to track.
Dr. Foster recommends working with your vet to prioritize medications:
Tier 1: Must be given daily (e.g., blood pressure meds).
Tier 2: Okay to skip occasionally if giving meds is difficult.
Tier 3: Should not be given if your pet is unwell (e.g., ACE inhibitors during dehydration).
“You’re not a failure if you can’t get every medication in,” Dr. Foster reassures. “Even veterinarians struggle sometimes.”
Monitoring and Check-Ins for Pets with Chronic Kidney Disease
CKD care is a marathon, not a sprint.
Routine veterinary visits and lab work every 3–4 months help detect changes early and adjust therapy before problems worsen.
Weigh your pet at home, keep a simple log of eating habits, energy levels, and bathroom patterns, and bring updates to each visit. These details help your veterinarian tailor the plan to your individual pet.
Celebrating Small Wins for Pets with Chronic Kidney Disease
Chronic disease management can feel heavy, but celebrating the good days matters.
“When your cat jumps up on the couch again or eats a full meal — that’s a victory,” says Dr. Foster.
Dr. Lancellotti agrees:
“I love when owners email me pictures of their pets doing something they love. Those moments mean everything.”
Common Misconceptions About Home Care for Pets with Chronic Kidney Disease
Myth 1: “My cat won’t eat the kidney diet, so there’s nothing we can do.”
Reality: There are dozens of options and appetite support strategies. Rotate foods, try different varieties and textures, and use appetite stimulants if recommended.
Myth 2: “If my pet drinks a lot, they must be hydrated.”
Reality: Pets drink when they’re thirsty, not for pleasure. Excessive drinking often means they’re barely keeping up with fluid loss.
Myth 3: “There’s nothing left to try.”
Reality: Hope is not lost. Work with your vet to explore nutrition, hydration, medication timing, and comfort strategies. Every small change helps.
Specialists for Chronic Kidney Disease in Cats and Dogs
Many family veterinarians diagnose and manage CKD. If you need extra support, a veterinary internal medicine or nephrology service can help with:
Complicated staging or rapid changes
High blood pressure, significant protein in urine
Anemia related to CKD in cats
Dialysis or advanced therapies (case-by-case)
Thank You to Our Sponsors
Sponsor Note
This episode is supported by Royal Canin® and Elanco™️ makers of Varenzin™️-CA1 (molidustat oral suspension). The discussion mentions a conditionally approved FDA treatment to control non-regenerative anemia associated with CKD in cats. Talk with your veterinarian to see what’s appropriate for your pet.
Indication
Varenzin-CA1 is indicated for the control of nonregenerative anemia associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD) in cats.
Important Safety Information
Varenzin-CA1 is for oral use in cats only and prescribed only by licensed veterinarians. Keep this drug and used syringes out of reach of children. Wash hands immediately after use. In case of accidentally swallowing, call a doctor immediately. Women who are or may become pregnant should use the product with caution. Do not give to pregnant, nursing or breeding cats. Before using Varenzin-CA1, talk to your veterinarian if your cat is allergic to molidustat, has a history of seizures or thromboembolic disease predisposition. Use with caution in cats younger than 1 year of age. Common side effects include vomiting and high blood pressure. Red blood cell proportion should be monitored. Click here for complete safety information.
PM-US-25-2289
