# A Real-World Data Analysis on Feline Chronic Kidney Disease in Greece: Clinical Profiles, Comorbidities, and Quality of Life

## TL;DR

This study analyzed over 200 cats in Greece with chronic kidney disease, finding that comorbidities like dental disease and anemia significantly reduce their quality of life.

## Contribution

The study provides real-world insights into feline CKD comorbidities and their impact on quality of life in Greece.

## Key findings

- 66.8% of cats with fCKD had at least one comorbidity, with dental disease and anemia being most common.
- HRQL scores declined significantly with advancing IRIS stage, especially with anemia and oral/dental disease.
- Comorbidities independently contributed to impaired quality of life in cats with fCKD.

## Abstract

Chronic Kidney Disease is a condition affecting cats, usually of older age, that has a severe impact on their health and daily life. In this study, more than 200 cats with CKD were investigated to evaluate their health problems and how the disease affected their wellbeing. The results showed that most cats (67%) had other health issues as well, like dental disease and anemia, and that this causes a significant reduction in the cat’s comfort and happiness. The quality of life of the animal significantly declines as the disease advances (according to the IRIS stage). These findings can help veterinarians and pet owners understand the impact of chronic kidney disease on a cat’s life, and the importance of early detection of the disease, as well as treatment of other health issues, in order to significantly improve the animal’s quality of life.

Feline chronic kidney disease (fCKD) is highly prevalent in geriatric cats, affecting up to 80%, and is a leading cause of morbidity in cats with a challenging diagnosis. This study aimed to characterize the clinical profiles, comorbidities, and quality of life of cats with fCKD in real-world clinical settings in Greece. Real-world data from 208 client-owned cats with fCKD were analyzed, including demographics, clinical findings, body and muscle condition scores, and practitioner-assigned stage according to International Renal Interest Society (IRIS) guidelines. Additionally, owners completed the VetMetrica™ Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQL) questionnaire. Associations between comorbidities, IRIS stage, and HRQL domains were assessed using appropriate statistical analysis. At least one comorbidity was present in 66.8% of cats, with oral/dental disease (29.81%) and anemia (15.38%) being the most common. HRQL scores declined significantly with advancing IRIS stage (p < 0.001). Notably, anemia showed the strongest association with reduced HRQL across all domains, including an 18.79-point reduction in Emotional Wellbeing (p < 0.001). Oral/dental disease was also significantly associated with poorer Comfort (OR 5.16) and Emotional Wellbeing (OR 7.10). Overall, comorbidities independently contributed to impaired quality of life in cats with fCKD. These findings highlight that early detection of fCKD and targeted management of comorbidities alongside renal care may substantially improve patient welfare.