A diagnosis of chronic kidney disease (CKD) can become part of a cat’s story in many different ways. For some families, it begins with subtle changes—a little more time at the water bowl, a change in appetite, or gradual weight loss. For others, the diagnosis comes unexpectedly during a routine veterinary visit or after a beloved cat suddenly becomes ill.
What comes next is different for every cat.
Some cats live with CKD for years, their families adapting routines, diets, medications, and care along the way. For others, the time after diagnosis is far too short. But behind every experience is a cat who is deeply loved and a person doing everything they can to give them the best life possible.
During EveryCat Health Foundation’s 2026 Cures4Cats campaign, we’ve invited people to share their experiences with feline CKD. The stories that follow are glimpses into those journeys—the challenges, the uncertainty, the difficult decisions, the treasured extra time, and the unforgettable cats at the heart of it all. Together, these stories also remind us why progress matters. Better ways to detect CKD earlier, understand how it progresses, and manage or treat the disease could mean more options, better quality of life, and more healthy time together.
These are their stories.
KOKO – Out of the blue, one day, no advance warning and at the human age of 8, Koko displayed some very unusual behavior, not eating, losing weight. After bloodwork at the vet, Koko ended up in the emergency department on fluids infused into his body. Recovery came about in a few weeks. Now he behaves very healthy, albeit with a strict special kidney-low protein diet. He has gained back the lost weight, and celebrates his 9th birthday on September 13th! Koko is dedicated to getting CKD off the map, and a donation will ensue, as we all share our absolute determination to find a cure for this Feline grand enemy. Thank you Every Cat for helping us beat this terrible affliction!
EXPRESSO – Chronic Kidney Disease has affected my cats. I have lost several cats due to CKD. Over the years I have spoken to many people that show their cats and no matter the breed, cats seem to get CKD when they get older. My cats have been to the vet and the vet’s recommended was putting them on prescription diets, however, it did not seem to help, over time they all got worse and eventually had to be put down or died. Currently I have a 15-year-old male with stage 2 kidney disease and he is on the prescription food. My cats are given moist food with a little dry on top; they have never been only on dry food. I have done some research to find that moist foods with low phosphorus is beneficial, and this was confirmed by my vet. Also, I give my boy with CKD a vitamin supplement powder that I add to his moist food. It would be nice for scientists to find a cure for CKD or how to prevent it. It is so difficult to watch a cat deteriorate with this disease. Thank you. ~ Jane
RAVEN– We were at her 6-year checkup when the vet asked if I wanted to do a senior blood panel. I agreed and was shocked her creatinine level was high. He wanted to do a recheck in a month, so she went back and her level increased to 1.7. I was told she had kidney disease and we started treatment with calcitrol twice a week. Took her back the following month and her level dropped to 1.4. That was 2 years ago and her creatinine at today’s visit was 1.3. Raven hates going to the vet, but she goes every 3 months and her creatinine has never been above 1.4 in 2 years. She still runs around the house, plays with her brothers and is still very feisty so I know she’s feeling well. I think early prevention is the key and I’m so glad she’s responded so well. ~ Carolyn
RAMESES– I wanted to let you know about Rameses, my sweet loveable cat who had CKD. I found him when he was very young. I don’t know how old he was at the time, but he was very friendly and slowly he became permanent in the house I had rented. When I moved, I made an appointment with my vet for a health check and to have him altered. When I picked him up, I made sure I had time to spend with Rameses. On the 1st day he seemed to be confused, so I grabbed the blanket and laid with him on the couch. We fell asleep and when I woke up his paws were around my neck. He was OK! From that point on he was fine. He even seemed to be the Ambassador of the 2 other cats I had found. That was 17 yrs ago and every time I type his name I tear up. I miss him very much. I love all my kitties, but as they say, there is always a special one. HE WAS THE SPECIAL ONE! My Prince Rameses. He was orange and white with golden eyes and had the softest fur. When I close my eyes, I can still feel his fur. When I used to trim his nails, he was so patient. ~ Maryanne
BANG BANG was his short name. Yyes he had a fancy registered name but he knew Bang Bang. Why? Because in the show ring if a judge said bang bang to him, he would just toss his body on the judging table. And I mean throw his body down and then smile at the judge. Many a judge felt I was kidding but after showing the judge his trick, they all became believers.
He was a Burmese cat. I call them the Velcro cats because they do love their people! The year I showed him all over he became a best breed winner but shortly after his show career he developed kidney disease. Special food & fluids helped extend his life, but he passed away in my arms with a smile on his face saying seeing you later in life.
He was a great spokescat for people to see how wonderful & loving cats can be.
Their Stories Are Why We Keep Searching
Each of these cats experienced CKD differently, but they share something important: they were deeply loved. Their stories remind us why we need better ways to detect, manage, and treat feline chronic kidney disease, and why every step forward matters.
Through EveryCat Health Foundation’s 2026 Cures4Cats campaign, you can help support research working toward better answers and more healthy time with the cats we love.
Thanks to the generous support of Zoetis, donations will be matched up to $23,000, doubling the impact of your gift.