CKD in Pets: Cost, Prevention & Supplement Myths Explained by Dr. Hu Yu-Yen (Part 2)
Kidneys — The Silent Organ
When the kidneys become diseased, symptoms don’t always appear, and often no
signs are felt at all. This causes many pet parents to only discover their
beloved companions have developed chronic kidney disease (CKD) once the illness
has already reached the late stages.
This interview focuses on the “silent killer”
in dogs and cats — CKD. We visited Dr. Hu Yu-Yen, Director of the Nephrology
Critical Care Department at Chung Hsing Animal Hospital in Kaohsiung
(specializing in kidney research and dialysis treatment for dogs and cats), to
have him debunk the top 9 kidney disease myths that pet parents most often
have.
Q6: When a dog or cat is
diagnosed with CKD, how much does treatment typically cost per year (including
check-ups, prescription diets, and at-home care)?
Based on the CKD pets I’ve treated, along
with data from published studies, there are general treatment guidelines for
each stage, from stage 1 to stage 4. For example:
- Stage 2: switch to prescription diets
- Stage 3: begin subcutaneous fluid therapy
- Stage 4: possibly require tube feeding
Here is a cost estimate for a stage 3 CKD
pet:
-
Animal weight: 5 kg
-
CKD stage: Stage 3, stable condition
-
Treatment plan: regular check-ups,
lab monitoring (blood tests, kidney markers, red and white blood cells,
electrolytes, urine protein), subcutaneous fluids, prescription food, and
supplements
Estimated yearly costs:
-
Follow-up visits: NT$4,000/month →
NT$48,000/year
-
Medications: NT$4,000/month →
NT$48,000/year
-
Subcutaneous fluids:
NT$2,000–4,000/month → NT$24,000–48,000/year
-
Prescription diet:
NT$1,000–2,000/month → NT$12,000–24,000/year
-
Supplements:
NT$2,000–4,000/month → NT$24,000–48,000/year
Total: Approximately NT$156,000–216,000
per year
This estimate reflects only the most basic
treatments and diet, and actual costs will vary depending on each pet’s
treatment plan.
For acute kidney failure, initial
fluid therapy may cost at least NT$20,000–30,000 per week. In more severe cases
requiring hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis, costs may reach NT$50,000 to
even NT$100,000.
Q7: Since water intake is
closely related to CKD, what are effective ways to encourage dogs and cats to
drink more water?
Sometimes the solution comes from asking why
they aren’t drinking. For example, if a dog is in pain and less active, their
metabolism slows down and naturally, so does water intake. By keeping CKD pets
active, the brain receives signals to “drink more water,” which encourages
hydration. This is why we often advise owners to stimulate activity and boost
metabolism.
Other helpful tips:
- Observe whether your pet likes the water bowl’s material, depth, or
height. Adjust placement or increase the number of bowls if needed.
- Cats are often picky with water — a drinking fountain with flowing
water may help.
- Offer positive reinforcement after drinking: treats, cuddles, praise.
- Add a small amount of honey or bonito flakes to water for flavor
enhancement.
Q8: Besides water intake,
what other preventive measures can reduce the risk of CKD in dogs and cats?
Because kidney disease is irreversible, prevention is critical.
-
Understand the animal’s physiology, diet, and habits: Knowing these helps identify their predispositions and possible
triggers.
-
Regular check-ups: Early detection
through routine tests allows timely intervention and care. Owners should
also recognize CKD symptoms — for example, cats suddenly drinking and
urinating excessively, or having bloody/foamy urine — which signal kidney
dysfunction requiring immediate veterinary care.
-
Manage chronic diseases: For dogs, CKD
often arises from complications of other chronic illnesses, such as
periodontal disease, arthritis, or cardiovascular disease. Preventing and
managing these conditions is vital.
-
Use targeted supplements: For instance, RenoShield’s
3-in-1 exclusive golden formula uses advanced extraction and encapsulation
techniques to improve nutrient absorption, supporting kidney health and
normal metabolism.
Q9: Can dogs and cats
without CKD also take kidney supplements?
Yes. Taking supplements is like buying
insurance — it helps with prevention or delaying disease onset and doesn’t
place a heavy burden on the body.
For example, my own dog “Huazhiwan” (a
Maltese–Spitz mix) is now 11 years old and is currently taking RenoShield. His
kidney indices remain completely normal, with no abnormalities, and he stays
energetic. The key is building muscle mass early in life, reducing pain risks,
and slowing organ aging. This improves quality of life and, even if chronic
disease develops later, it can still extend lifespan.
That said, I recommend consulting a
veterinarian before starting any supplement. Dosage matters, and we tailor care
plans to each individual pet’s health condition.
Reference: https://lihi1.cc/dobQL
https://www.hiq-pets.com/article/88
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