Frequently Asked Questions

Phosphorus is an essential mineral for all cats, playing a key role in bone health and cellular function. However, in cats with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), the kidneys' ability to filter and balance phosphorus is compromised. High phosphorus levels can accelerate kidney damage and contribute to secondary complications. Renal diets are carefully forumlated with reduced phosphorus to help manage CKD and slow disease progression. Controlling phosphorus intake helps protect kidney function, maintain electrolyte balance, and support overall well-being. Combined with proper protein management and hydration, phosphorus restriction is a cornerstone of effective CKD dietary therapy.

Protein is vital for all cats, supporting muscle maintenance, organ function, and overall health. In cats with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), the kidneys struggle to process the byproducts of protein metabolism. High-protein diets can increase the workload on the kidneys, potentially accelerating disease progression. Renal diets carefully balance protein content to provide enough high-quality protein to maintain muscle and body condition, while limiting excess protein that could strain the kidneys. This approach helps manage CKD symptoms, support overall health, and maintain strength and vitality in affected cats.

Dry food is convenient and has a long shelf life, but it contains significantly less moistue than wet food. For cats with CKD, adequate hydration is crucial because kidney function relies on sufficient water intake to help flush toxins and support overall health. While CKD cats can eat dry food, it should not be the primary source of nutrition. Wet food is strongly recommended as it naturally provides the extra moisture CKD cats often need. If dry food is offered, it should ideally be balanced with wet meals and plenty of fresh water to ensure proper hydration and kidney support.

While mixing wet and dry renal foods is possible, they key is to ensure that your cat still receives adequate hydration. Wet food naturally provides moisture that supports kidney function, whereas dry food is much lower in water content. Mixing can help with variety and palatability, but CKD cats should always have a diet where wet food makes up a significant portion of daily intake. When combining wet and dry meals, monitor your cat's water intake and consult your veterinarian to ensure the diet meets their nutritional and hydration needs.

Supplements for cats with CKD are used to support specific nutritional needs that may not be fully met through diet alone. Common supplements include phosphorus binders, renaltec, Omega-3 fatty acids(DHA/EPA), certain vitamins, botanics, and amino acids. Supplements should always be used as part of a carefully managed regimen alongside a renal-appropriate diet to optimize kidney function and overall well-being. Always consult a veterinarian before introducing new supplements that could interfere with other conditions or medications.

When giving multiple renal supplements, it's important to follow your veterinarian's guidance and the product instructions carefully. Some supplements, such as phosphorus binders, must be administered with meals to be effective, while others like Omega-3 fatty acids can be given at any time. Combining supplements incorrectly may reduce their effectiveness or lead to imbalances, so always introduce new supplements gradually and monitor your cat's response. Keeping a consistent routine can help ensure optimal kidney support.

Renal diets and nutritional supplements do not require a prescription in the European Union. These products are classified as feed or complementary feed, not medicines, and can be purchased freely under EU law. They are commonly recommended by veterinarians but are not legally regulated as prescription items. Prescription requirements apply only to veterinary medicinal products, such as certain renal medications(Beraprost Sodium, appetite stimulants, anti-nausea drugs, blood pressure medications, and phosphate binders classified as medicines). These fall under Regulation (EU) 2019/6 on veterinary medicinal products, which mandates a valid veterinary prescription before dispensing. If your cat requires pescription medication, the best first step is to consult your veterinarian and discuss recent blood work and symptoms. If you are unsure whether a product requires a prescription, feel free to contact us, we're happy to clarify what can be purchased directly and what requires veterinary authorization.

Each KidneyCo regimen is built around three core principles: 1. Clinical relevance — Products are selected based on established CKD nutritional guidelines, veterinary consensus, and ingredient composition. Regimens often contain references to clinical studies that demonstrate their effectiveness in practice. 2. Complementary roles — Every item has a purpose. Foods provide the foundation, while supplements are chosen to support specific needs like phosphorus control, Omega-3 intake, appetite and hydration without unnecessary overlap. 3. Real-world practicality — CKD cats are picky. Regimens are designed with flexibility in mind, allowing substitutions within the same nutritional framework if a cat refuses a specific item. Regimens are designed as structured starting points that can be adapted to your cat's preferences and veterinary guidance.

The right regimen depends entirely on your cat's preference and nutritional needs. A perfect starting point following a CKD diagnosis is the "CKD Gold" regimen that includes the best renal products from the best brands. If your cat refuses wet food then the "Dry Food Lover" regimen can be considered. If your cat is dehydrated, complete liquid food can be useful, which is included in the "Dehydrated But Lovely" regimen. Perhaps no regimen is right for you and your cat, which is perfectly fine. Look through KidneyCo's regimens, see which products are featured and why, do your own research, consult a veterinarian, and find what works best for your cat.