Owners’ experiences of caring for cats with chronic kidney disease in the UK

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of the present study was to describe current practices in the management of feline chronic kidney disease (CKD), and the experiences and emotions of caring for a cat with CKD, reported by UK cat owners. Methods: A survey study was conducted of UK owners of cats with CKD that included multiple-choice, Likert scale and open questions reported using descriptive statistics. Results: Responses from 100 UK owners of cats with CKD were included in the study. Of the owners, 73% had knowledge of their cat’s International Renal Interest Society stage and 76% were feeding their cat a renal diet, with 70% reporting that veterinary recommendation had influenced this decision. Of the owners, 35% were administering phosphate binders, 26% natural supplements and 25% antiproteinuric therapies to their cat. Of concern was the high number of owners reporting feelings of anxiety (99%) as well as other negative emotions associated with caring for their cat with CKD. Extreme worry, anxiety or concern were high at both the time of CKD diagnosis and survey completion, related to disease prognosis (72% and 50%, respectively) and cats’ quality of life (63% and 46%, respectively). Many owners agreed that their daily routine had changed a lot since their cat was diagnosed with CKD (66%) and that caring for their cat negatively impacted or restricted their own life (37%). Conclusions and relevance: Although owners’ knowledge and understanding of their cat’s CKD and appropriate management was generally in line with expert guidelines, the finding that many owners reported experiencing feelings of anxiety associated with caring for their cat, suggesting caregiver burden, was concerning. This highlights the impact that veterinary professionals, including veterinary nurses, may have in providing greater education and support to enhance the relationship and communication with owners of cats with CKD, thus helping to alleviate anxiety and ensure ongoing successful CKD management.