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My senior cat pees a lot. Can she get kidney diet without tests?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 10 years and 8 months old | 8 lbs

My low income sister can't afford expensive treatment&the 10yo cat she took in likely has diminished kidney function(drinks/pees alot,at times out of the clean,conveniently located box)She acts normal otherwise. I've had cats diagnosed w/diminished kidney function, after painful,expensive tests they just recommended hills k/d & supportive care, so what's the harm trying that since she doesn't have money& a shelter isn't going to home her. She doesn't want euthanize her since she seems happy. Thx

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 28th, 2017

I forgot to mention that they will also require a urinalysis in addition to the blood test in order to confirm kidney malfunction exists, before proceeding with the recommended treatments that you mentioned.

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    Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    It is definitely recommended to get her on the diet and do supportive care (i.e. subcutaneous fluids and medications to lower phosphorus levels, if they are elevated. However you will at the very least have to get her diagnosed by having routine bloodwork ran in order to get the prescription for the food and supportive care medications. Routine bloodwork and an exam can be relatively affordable depending on where you live. Just give a call to your local clinics to weigh your options. It is good that Mary seems fine otherwise, and we want to keep her spirits up as long as possible. Here are also some financial resources that may be able to assist your sister www.carecredit.com redrover.org

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