Why feline kidney disease is more than genetics

20/02/2026

In The Animal Economics exclusive interview at the Klivet Congress in Turkiye, Dr. Rebecca F. Geddes explained that chronic kidney disease (CKD) is seen across all cat breeds and becomes more common with age. While genetic risk factors may play a role, she would not describe CKD as strictly hereditary. Instead, risk is shaped by genes, diet, and other factors cats encounter as they get older.

A critical turning point is stage 4 in the IRIS staging system, where survival time is often short and CKD is likely to become the cause of death or the reason for euthanasia. However, Dr. Geddes noted that around half of cats may never reach stage 4, remaining stable in earlier stages and dying from other causes.

On management, she emphasized that the most evidence-backed step to improve survival time is feeding a renal (kidney) diet, typically protein- and phosphate-restricted. Beyond diet, she highlighted key risks to monitor and treat, especially hypertension, which she estimated affects about 60% of cats with kidney disease and can lead to blindness and further organ damage. She also pointed to the importance of checking for proteinuria and tailoring supportive care—such as potassium supplementation, hydration support (including at-home fluids), and constipation management—to each patient.

Dr. Geddes also described two kidney-stone pathways: stones linked to CKD-related mineralization in older cats, and stones in younger cats that may obstruct the ureter and trigger kidney disease secondarily. On prevalence, she cited that by age 15+, 81% of cats have CKD, underlining why early monitoring in senior cats is essential.

You can watch the full exclusive interview on our official YouTube channel.