Mission RENAL 3: Home Care for Pets with Chronic Kidney Disease

In Part 3 of Mission RENAL, a series on Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) in pets, Dr. JD Foster, small animal internal medicine and nephrology expert joins to explain ways cat and dog owners can help support their pet with chronic kidney disease at home through nutrition, hydration, and monitoring. Sponsored by Royal Canin and Elanco, this guide empowers pet owners with Real Education for Navigating Advanced Longevity in dogs and cats with chronic kidney disease.

• Prescription renal diets significantly improve survival and quality of life.

• Encourage hydration through food, fountains, and flavor additives.

• Subcutaneous fluids should be reserved for when other methods fail.

• Create a prioritized medication plan with your veterinarian.

• Regular rechecks every 3–4 months help catch issues early.

• Celebrate small wins — joy and connection matter as much as lab numbers.

Resources & Links:

• Episode page with pictures and video: Mission RENAL Part 3: Home Care for Pet with Chronic Kidney Disease

• Find a veterinary internal medicine specialist near you: Specialist Search Here

Our vision is for Your Vet Wants You to Know to be a resource for veterinarians to improve client communication by introducing a discussion about a common topic during the vet visit, then directing the client to a reliable source of engaging, understandable, and accessible information.

By doing so, we strive for:
1) increased pet health literacy among pet owners,
2) improved partnership between clients and the veterinary team,
3) improved medical outcomes for pets, and
4) improved quality of life and efficiency for veterinarians.

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Mission RENAL is sponsored by Royal Canin and Elanco™ makers of VarenzinTM-CA1 (molidustat oral suspension).

Varenzin-CA1 is indicated for the control of nonregenerative anemia associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD) in cats.

Important Safety Information

Varenzin-CA1 is for oral use in cats only and prescribed only by licensed veterinarians. Keep this drug and used syringes out of reach of children. Wash hands immediately after use. In case of accidentally swallowing, call a doctor immediately. Women who are or may become pregnant should use the product with caution. Do not give to pregnant, nursing or breeding cats. Before using Varenzin-CA1, talk to your veterinarian if your cat is allergic to molidustat, has a history of seizures or thromboembolic disease predisposition. Use with caution in cats younger than 1 year of age. Common side effects include vomiting and high blood pressure. Red blood cell proportion should be monitored. Click here for complete safety information.