My cat has CKD. Do they need Sub Q fluids or just more water?

Question

Hi is rehydration the sole purpose of sub Q fluid for cats with CKD and is reserved for cats that wont drink? Can't cats get water via oral syringe instead? Or from added water in food? I have never seen my cat drink out of the water bowl because I add plenty of water in the food; however he does urinate a lot-- 5 times a day. Would extra liquid intake in cats help with kidney disease or would it post any health problems? Pet's info: Cat | Korat | Male | neutered | 14 years and 2 months old | 9.6 lbs

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

I don't recommend giving them water via oral syringe because they can choke on it. Cats don't like having anything syringed in their mouth! You can give added water to food, but it's not enough. Sub Q fluids are recommended for any cat with CKD. As their kidney function falters, the kidneys must produce more urine in order to eliminate the waste products. Cats with kidney disease cannot consume adequate water to meet the needs of their compromised kidneys. The waste products begin to build up in the bloodstream, which ultimately cause affected cats to feel sick. These fluids produce extra urine, thus helping flush out the waste products. The extra fluid intake helps with the kidney disease.

My cat has CKD. Do they need Sub Q fluids or just more water?

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