2yrs since my cat was diagnosed with ckd, these are the items improving his quality of life. My highest recommendations: Azodyl and fluids
Sections
5
Food
Essentials
and also
Treats & Toppers
Toys
Food
S is for savory, which seems to be exactly what my kitty likes. While I focus on feeding him wet food as much as possible, I feel good about Royal Canin dry food.
Feline Renal Support S (Prescription needed)
Dexter's favorite wet food. He got tired of his prescription Royal Canin food quickly, but has consistently eaten this Weruva flavor without issue.
2 pills a day for most cats, preferably on an empty stomach. Dexter gets 1 every morning and 1 every night. Store in fridge to extend shelf life. Keep an eye out for sales. For last 2 years, Nov/Dec was the best time to stock up.
Azodyl
Dexter gets fluids every 2-3 days depending on how dry the weather has been. I really attribute his good days to sub-q fluids and Azodyl.
Lactated Ringers Solution (prescription needed)
and also
Azodyl alternative. Azodyl is definitely preferred, but I keep a bottle of this as backup in case I can't get Azodyl in a timely manner.
Azovast Plus Kidney Health Supplement 120ct
This was a game changer at the start of our CKD journey. I can see exactly how much he eats, give him constant access to food, and keep the other cats from eating his prescription meals. (I use the Connect version so I can get updates on my phone)
The SureFeed Microchip Pet Feeder Connect from Sure Petcare
If you are providing your cat with sub-q fluids, it's good to have a safe way to dispose of the needles.
CVS Complete Needle Collection & Disposal System
Dexter has 3 favorite spots: A round cat bed, my shoulder, and this heating pad. He lays across this heating pad most of the day as it gentle warms when weight is applied. I'm considering getting 2 more since all my kitties love its warmth.
K&H Thermo-Kitty Mat - K&H Pet Products
If he's not on the heating pad or demanding shoulder time, Dexter is curled up in this heated bed. He loves to set his chin on the edge while surveying his domain (the living room.)
K&H Thermo-Kitty Fashion Splash - K&H Pet Products
Treats & Toppers
This is great when he's not getting enough hydration and we're between sub-q sessions.
Hydra Care Cat Hydration Supplement
Dexter loves these lickable treats. Great as a topper to get him interested in his prescription wet food.
WERUVA Wx Phos Focused Tuna Formula Grain-Free ...
Use sparingly since they contain no moisture. Still a quality treat I give after he's had a really tough time getting fluids. The Just Salmon treats are even better.
Freeze-Dried Just Chicken for Pets
Similar to the freeze dried chicken. Use sparingly, but very well loved by my cats. Dexter gets 2 of these after every fluids session. I think the slight moisture from fish oil helps him keep it down better than the chicken ones.
Freeze-Dried Just Salmon with Skin for Pets
Healthy treat that's often loved. While the freeze dried salmon/chicken is preferred, this treat comes in a close second.
Packed full of catnip AND there's mesh on the back to help clean their teeth. Dexter loves to rabbit kick the pickle.
Catstages Catnip Crinkle Pickle Teether Cat Toy - PetSmart
Absolutely a favorite toy. My 17 y/o ckd cat will still play sometimes and this is one of the few toys that gets him kicking! 🍌
YEOWWW! Catnip Yellow Banana Cat Toy, 3 count
I like to sprinkle a little catnip on this to encourage claw sharpening and playtime. Dexter has been less active the older he gets, but a little catnip on a scratcher helps keep him playful.