Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Chronic kidney disease in older cats in Greece and their quality
By Ioulia Chortara et al.·Published in Veterinary Sciences·2026·Asclepius One Health Platform, 10671 Athens, Greece, CH·View original on DOAJ →
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Original publication title: A Real-World Data Analysis on Feline Chronic Kidney Disease in Greece: Clinical Profiles, Comorbidities, and Quality of Life
- Species:
- cat
Plain-English summary
A study found that many older cats, especially those with chronic kidney disease (fCKD), often have other health issues that can affect their quality of life. In a group of 208 cats with fCKD, about 67% had at least one additional problem, with dental disease and anemia being the most common. As the kidney disease progressed, the cats' quality of life scores dropped significantly, particularly due to anemia, which greatly impacted their emotional well-being. The researchers suggest that early detection of fCKD and managing other health issues can help improve the overall welfare of these cats.
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Abstract
Feline chronic kidney disease (fCKD) is highly prevalent in geriatric cats, affecting up to 80%, and is a leading cause of morbidity in cats with a challenging diagnosis. This study aimed to characterize the clinical profiles, comorbidities, and quality of life of cats with fCKD in real-world clinical settings in Greece. Real-world data from 208 client-owned cats with fCKD were analyzed, including demographics, clinical findings, body and muscle condition scores, and practitioner-assigned stage according to International Renal Interest Society (IRIS) guidelines. Additionally, owners completed the VetMetrica™ Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQL) questionnaire. Associations between comorbidities, IRIS stage, and HRQL domains were assessed using appropriate statistical analysis. At least one comorbidity was present in 66.8% of cats, with oral/dental disease (29.81%) and anemia (15.38%) being the most common. HRQL scores declined significantly with advancing IRIS stage (<i>p</i> < 0.001). Notably, anemia showed the strongest association with reduced HRQL across all domains, including an 18.79-point reduction in Emotional Wellbeing (<i>p</i> < 0.001). Oral/dental disease was also significantly associated with poorer Comfort (OR 5.16) and Emotional Wellbeing (OR 7.10). Overall, comorbidities independently contributed to impaired quality of life in cats with fCKD. These findings highlight that early detection of fCKD and targeted management of comorbidities alongside renal care may substantially improve patient welfare.
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Search related cases →Original publication on DOAJ: https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13020192