Kidney health sometimes comes as an afterthought to cat parents. Only when something goes wrong do owners tend to take notice. However, by the time your vet detects a problem with your cat’s kidneys, damage has already begun. Your kitty’s best defense against chronic kidney disease is prevention with help of a couple of natural remedies.

The path to healthier kidneys begins at home. Good lifestyle habits and a balanced diet work together to ensure your cat’s kidneys are functioning at their best. Here are some natural tips that help prevent and treat chronic kidney disease in cats.

1. Herbal supplements: Many herbs are known for their restorative and supportive qualities—particularly in the kidneys. Herbal kidney support supplements deliver a natural, gentle blend of herbs that help the kidneys function as they should and minimize the effects of chronic kidney disease in cats.
2. Cinnamon: This spice isn’t just great for all your favorite fall treats. Cinnamon is a powerful antioxidant that banishes free radicals from the body. It also reduces inflammation in the kidneys. Getting your feline friend to eat cinnamon shouldn’t be a problem—it turns out that many cats like cinnamon just as much as humans do! Remember to only administer a little at a time to prevent stomach upset, and check with your vet to ensure proper daily dosage.
3. Mushrooms: For hundreds of years, medical practitioners in China and Japan have sworn by the healing properties of two mushroom species: Ganoderma lucidum and Cordyceps sinensis. Similar to cinnamon, Ganoderma also produces anti-inflammatory effects in cats. Cordyceps counteracts oxidative stress in the kidneys and is praised for its overall ability to preserve kidney health. These medicinal mushrooms are typically given to cats in the form of a powder that’s added to their food.
4. Hydration: This one sounds like a no-brainer, but it’s overlooked by many cat owners. When your cat is dehydrated, their kidneys have to work extra hard to rid the body of toxins. You can alleviate stress on the kidneys by increasing your cat’s daily water intake. Make sure they have access to plenty of fresh water 24/7. If your cat doesn’t like to drink, slowly transition them to a diet that mainly consists of wet food. Dry kibble can contribute to dehydration.
5. Acupuncture: Cats can get acupuncture, too! When done by a practiced professional, acupuncture needles can target specific areas to stimulate both renal and systemic blood flow—or, in simpler terms, increase blood circulation in and around the kidneys. Acupuncture also improves the kidneys’ ability to filter out toxins from the blood. Each kidney is filled with millions of glomeruli, which act as tiny filtration systems for the blood’s waste products. Acupuncture may increase the rate at which these glomeruli get rid of harmful substances.
6. Weight management: Cat owners should be concerned if their furry friends are carrying a few extra pounds. Many feline illnesses, including chronic kidney disease, can be traced back to obesity. Monitoring your cat’s weight is vital for protecting their kidneys because obesity often leads to diabetes, which often results in kidney disease. Your vet can give helpful advice on how to restrict your cat’s daily caloric intake and which foods to avoid altogether.

Why should I prioritize kidney health?

Chronic kidney disease is one of the most common ailments among cats. In fact, nearly 80 percent of all cats develop some type of kidney disease in their later years. While no pet owner likes to think about it, chances are, your cat will experience kidney problems during their lifetime. It’s better to take preventative action than attempt to reverse the effects of chronic kidney disease when your cat reaches their senior years.

The kidneys play a major role in regulating your cat’s overall health. They detoxify your cat by separating harmful substances from the blood, allowing helpful cells to cycle back into the bloodstream and guiding toxins safely out of the body. Since blood is constantly circulating through the kidneys, they’re also responsible for managing a cat’s blood pressure. For these reasons and more, the kidneys deserve special attention.

Even if you follow all these tips, there’s still a chance your kitty will develop chronic kidney disease. If this happens, your cat may be much better off than if you hadn’t taken preventative measures at all. Herbal supplements, dietary changes and other alternative methods are praised by vets around the world for their ability to slow the onset of kidney problems. Small adjustments to your furry feline’s daily routine will make huge strides toward a longer, more fulfilling life.