Small animal review

Elliott et al (2025) reported the results of a survey that evaluated the experiences of owners in the UK in caring for cats with chronic kidney disease. The responses from 100 owners of cats with chronic kidney disease were included in the study. A total of 73% of owners were aware of their cat's International Renal Interest Society (IRIS) stage and 76% were feeding a renal diet. A total of 70% of owners said that veterinary recommendation had influenced their choice to feed a renal diet. Regarding other medications, 35% of owners were feeding phosphate binders, 26% were feeding natural supplements and 25% were using treatments to reduce proteinuria. A total of 99% of owners felt anxiety and other adverse emotions regarding caring for their pet and its illness, reporting particularly high emotions at the time of diagnosis, which was also related to disease prognosis and cats' quality of life. A total of 66% of owners said their daily routine had changed after their cat's diagnosis, with 37% expressing a negative impact on their own lives. The authors noted that, although owners' care of their cats' chronic kidney disease was largely in line with veterinary recommendations, the disease caused a considerable mental and practical burden on the caregiver. They suggested that veterinary surgeons and nurses have an important role in education and support for carers of cats with chronic kidney disease.