Kidney disease in cats

Leading cause of mortality in older cats — renewal-age cap + ongoing-medication cover decide what's claimable.

What is feline CKD?

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is the leading cause of mortality in older cats. Typically presents in cats aged 10+. Management is symptomatic + supportive — prescription diet, sub-cutaneous fluids, phosphate binders, sometimes erythropoietin for anaemia. Ongoing, not curative.

Early warning signs

  • Increased thirst + urination
  • Weight loss + poor appetite
  • Vomiting
  • Uremic breath
  • Lethargy

NZ pet insurance considerations

  • Pre-existing handling. Any prior bloodwork showing kidney concerns flags CKD as pre-existing on a new policy. Insure cats young.
  • Renewal-age cap. Cats often live 16+ years; CKD typically presents at 10+. Cover that stops renewing past age 12-13 leaves the highest-risk period uninsured.
  • Ongoing-medication cover. Some policies cap chronic-medication spend annually.
  • Prescription diet. Often excluded even when vet-prescribed.

Use /find-my-policy with "older-pet-existing-conditions" to rank NZ policies on chronic-condition language.

Find my policy

Not personalised veterinary or financial advice. Speak to your vet; quote with each insurer for actual prices.