Chronic Kidney Disease (Aka. Chronic Renal Failure)
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is understandably worrying for pet owners. Early stages often go unnoticed, and symptoms may only appear once significant kidney function is lost. Many owners find themselves feeling overwhelmed with the ongoing management, dietary changes, monitoring, and uncertainty.
At Holistic Vet Care, our fully qualified vets are here to support both you and your pet, guiding you every step of the way. Our goal is to help support kidney function and ease symptoms with our gentle, whole-body therapies. With the right care and guidance, many pets continue to enjoy happy, active lives despite CKD.
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch to discuss whether holistic support may be appropriate for your pet.
Amber's Story
Book your free introductory consult
Not sure if we can help? Book a free 15min introductory consult with one of our holistic vets!
It’s a chance to get to know us, ask questions, and decide if you want to use our services with zero obligation.
Introductory consults can be in person or via Teams. Terms and Conditions apply.
What is CKD?
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a long-term condition in which the kidneys slowly and irreversibly lose their ability to function.
The kidneys help remove toxic waste products from the blood, regulate fluids and important minerals, and support healthy blood pressure.
As a result, CKD can lead to a build-up of waste products in the blood, high blood pressure, and changes in the body’s fluid balance.
Holistic treatment
Please be advised that conventional treatment is provided by your regular veterinarian, as we do not offer surgical or conventional medical interventions at Holistic Vet Care.
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can be a valuable part of supporting pets with chronic kidney disease (CKD). With acupuncture and carefully selected Chinese herbal medicine, we aim to support pets with CKD in the following ways:
- Help reduce inflammation.
- Help alleviate pain.
- Help support healthy blood circulation to the kidneys.
- Support the body’s natural healing processes.
- Help reduce nausea.
- Help promote a healthy appetite.
Through these gentle approaches, our qualified vets aim to help support kidney function, slow disease progression, ease clinical signs, and enhance quality of life – alongside conventional treatment.
Food therapy
Let food be thy medicine, and medicine be thy food.
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, food therapy is foundational in addressing underlying “patterns of disharmony” (the way disease presents within the individual). We aim to support the body’s natural balance with tailored whole-food diets, rather than heavily processed pet foods which may contribute to inflammation in some pets.
For CKD, our goals with food therapy are to reduce kidney workload and maintain overall health. We may recommend a diet low in protein and salt.
Every pet is unique, however, and more specific dietary recommendations are tailored to your pet’s individual TCM diagnosis. Specific guidance can be discussed with one of our qualified vets during your consultation.
Claiming insurance
Many pet insurance providers now offer cover for complementary and holistic therapies, including herbal medicine, acupuncture, and laser therapy. However, we recommend checking what is included in your plan as cover varies between policies. Please bear in mind that all consultations, treatments, and herbal prescriptions must be paid for at the time. We will then help you claim back from your insurer.
Frequently asked questions
What are common clinical signs of CKD?
In the early stages of CKD, many pets appear completely normal. Signs often only become noticeable once a large proportion of healthy kidney tissue has already been lost—typically around 75%.
When signs do become noticeable, they may include:
- Drinking and urinating more
- Fatigue and lethargy
- Eating less and losing weight
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Bad breath and/or mouth ulcers
Even small changes in your pet’s habits can be important – bringing them to your vet’s attention early helps your pet get the support they need.
How is CKD typically treated by conventional vets?
Please be advised that conventional treatment is provided by your regular vet, as we do not offer surgical or medical interventions at Holistic Vet Care.
Although CKD cannot be cured due to the irreversible nature of the damage, many pets can continue to enjoy a good quality of life with appropriate supportive care. Therefore, treatment focuses on supporting kidney function, managing clinical signs, and improving quality of life.
Conventional approaches may include:
- Dietary management: A prescription renal diet designed to reduce kidney workload, often with adjusted protein and salt levels can help reduce the workload on the kidneys and slow disease progression.
- Medications: Blood-pressure medications may be prescribed to treat hypertension. Other medications can help manage nausea, anaemia, or other complications of CKD.
- Fluid therapy: Given to pets requiring hospitalisation to prevent dehydration and support kidney function.
- Regular monitoring: Frequent check-ups, blood tests, and urine tests allow your vet to track kidney function, adjust treatment, and catch complications early.
Some advanced options, such as dialysis or kidney transplantation, are not readily available in veterinary medicine. With the right care, many pets continue to live comfortable, happy lives despite CKD.
Must I leave my current vets to seek treatment at Holistic Vet Care?
No – we work alongside your conventional vet. We don’t replace conventional or emergency treatment. Our aim is to support your pet’s whole body and to help you feel informed, supported, and confident in their care.
Many complementary therapies are used alongside conventional treatments to improve patient welfare and can help improve prognosis. While adverse herbal-drug interactions (HDIs) can occur, they are uncommon when therapies are prescribed appropriately and monitored carefully.
When interactions do occur, the most common scenario is the herb enhancing the effect of the drug – which may allow conventional treatment plans to be adjusted by the prescribing vet.
We always encourage open communication between you, your primary vet, and our team to ensure your pet receives safe, balanced, and well-coordinated care.
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch to discuss whether holistic support may be appropriate for your pet.
Can I fully replace conventional treatment with holistic treatment?
No, holistic treatment should not replace conventional diagnosis or medical care.
At Holistic Vet Care, we work alongside your regular veterinarian. Conventional treatment is essential for diagnosing the condition, assessing severity, and managing emergencies or complications. Our role is to support your pet’s comfort, overall health, resilience, healing, and long-term wellbeing.
We always encourage open communication between you, your primary vet, and our team to ensure your pet receives safe, balanced, and well-coordinated care.
Do I need a referral from my vets?
Yes – your primary vet signs the “Vet Care Agreement” and sends your pet’s history to us. This ensures your pet receives safe, coordinated care before your first appointment.
How Long Does Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Take to Show Results?
The rate and degree of improvement depend on your pet and the severity of disease. Some animals show marked improvement in a matter of weeks, whilst others may need months. With TCM, improvement is steady and sustained, so patience is required.
Are There Any Risks with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)?
TCM is generally safe when prescribed by a qualified person. Certain herbs may have side-effects and may have the ability to interact with conventional medications. Therefore, it is imperative that TCM is only used under professional guidance.
Will acupuncture hurt my pet?
It is unlikely. We find that most patients tolerate acupuncture very well, many end up falling asleep! Some points can be painful on some patients, but we take steps to minimise discomfort in these cases.
Can holistic treatments help older pets?
Absolutely! We see many geriatric patients, and they often demonstrate notable improvements (it may require several treatments before the benefits can be obviously appreciated). Some clients report that their older animals appear brighter, more comfortable, or more engaged again.
How do I know which holistic treatments are suitable for my pet?
Talk to your vet before trialling any new treatments.
Once registered with us, you can also ask our holistic vet.
Can I claim through my insurance?
Most insurance companies will cover/contribute towards our services. However, we always advise checking with your insurance company regarding your individual policy.
Get in touch
Where are we located?
Suite A, Blisworth Marina, Blisworth, Northampton, NN7 3FG.
We are located just outside of Blisworth, between Northampton and Towcester. Our clinic is at the Blisworth Marina, providing a peaceful, relaxing setting, with ample parking.
