8 Best Cat Kidney Supplements – 2024 Reviews & Top Picks
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As our beloved cats age, their bodies start to slow down and struggle to keep up with the tiresome demands of the life of a domestic cat. Organs become worn out by natural decline, and often the kidneys tend to be one of the first to begin struggling, with 30% of cats over ten years of age suffering from chronic kidney disease. If your cat battles with declining kidneys, your vet will arrange care that may involve special diets or medications, but this can also be supported with the use of supplements. Supplements can also be used for general health and preventative care for cats of all ages.
With a wide array of products on the market, it can be hard to know where to begin, and you want nothing but the best for your feline family member. We’ve compiled a list of the most effective cat kidney supplements for which many cat owners give glowing reviews.
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites in 2024
Rating | Image | Product | Details | |
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Best Overall | Vetoquinol Epakitin Urinary Supplement |
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Best Value | Vet's Best Chewable Tablets for Cats |
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Premium Choice | Pet Wellbeing Kidney Support |
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AminAvast Kidney Support Cat Supplement |
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Animal Essentials Tinkle Tonic Cat Supplement |
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The 8 Best Cat Kidney Supplements
1. Vetoquinol Epakitin Urinary Supplement – Best Overall
Supplement type: | Powder |
Primary active ingredient(s): | Chitosan (derived from shrimp and crab shells) |
Dosage: | 1g/11lbs of body weight, twice daily |
his product is highly reviewed with testimonials of excellent results in use as a kidney supplement. It is also suitable for dogs and cats, so if your dog tends to eat your cat’s leftovers when you aren’t looking, then no harm can be done!
- Naturally derived
- It can be used for life
- No reported side effects
- Must be mixed with food
2. Vet’s Best Chewable Tablets Urinary Supplement – Best Value
Supplement type: | Chewy tablets |
Primary active ingredient(s): | Cranberry, parsley, corn silk, marshmallow root |
Dosage: | 1 or 2 tablets a day |
Good reviews, proven ingredients, and agreeable prices make this product the best cat kidney supplement for the money available.
- Natural ingredients
- Does not interfere with medications
- Supports the entire urinary system
- Disliked by some pets
- May require crushing
3. Pet Wellbeing Kidney Support Supplement – Premium Choice
Supplement type: | Liquid |
Primary active ingredient(s): | Rehmannia root, astragalus root, dong quai root |
Dosage: | 1 drop per 2lb of body weight |
The low liquid dose disappears into your pet’s food virtually unnoticed; there are few reports of cats refusing this supplement.
- Palatable bacon flavor
- Natural ingredients
- Suitable for all ages
- Expensive
- Comes in a small bottle
4. AminAvast Kidney Support Cat Supplement
Supplement type: | Capsule |
Primary active ingredient(s): | AB070587, magnesium stearate |
Dosage: | 1-2 capsules twice daily |
It doesn’t have a very catchy name, but it is approved and patented and seems to produce excellent results in supporting cats with kidney issues.
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- Long shelf life
- Additionally supports coat and appetite
- Can cause allergies or sensitivities
5. Animal Essentials Tinkle Tonic Herbal Cat Supplement
Supplement type: | Liquid |
Primary active ingredient(s): | Couchgrass root, dandelion root, echinacea root, horsetail herb, marshmallow root |
Dosage: | ½ ml daily |
- Natural ingredients
- Safe for both cats and dogs
- Suitable for preventative supplementation
- Can upset sensitive stomachs
- Strong taste not ideal for picky eaters
6. UroMAXX Urinary, Kidney & Bladder Cat Supplement
Supplement type: | Liquid |
Primary active ingredient(s): | Cranberry, vitamin C, cornsilk, dandelion |
Dosage: | 5ml daily |
- Contains glucosamine
- Fast-acting
- Frequently used by vets
- Cats may not like the taste
7. VetClassics Cranberry Comfort Cat Supplement
Supplement type: | Chewable tablet |
Primary active ingredient(s): | Cranberry, echinacea, marshmallow root |
Dosage: | 1 tablet per day |
- Fortified with vitamin C to strengthen the immune system
- Affordable
- Extra inactive filler ingredients
8. PRN Pharmacal CranMate Cat Supplement
Supplement type: | Chewable tablet |
Primary active ingredient(s): | Cranberry |
Dosage: | 1 per day |
- Affordable
- Flavored with pork liver
- Contains soy and dairy, which may cause allergies
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Best Kidney Supplement For Your Cat
Kidney Disease in Cats
Kidney disease may arise in cats of any age but is more prominent in elderly cats over the age of 12. As a cat’s body ages, many organs can become tired and inefficient; the kidneys tend to be the most common. Cat kidneys keep their body in homeostasis by managing water and electrolyte levels and removing waste from the blood. Early signs include excessive thirst and strange urination habits such as frequent and large amounts. As the kidney and urinary health declines, toxins can build up in the blood and cause general illness and discomfort. Kidney supplements can provide support in preventing kidney disease by maintaining general health and vigor.
Combined with special vet care, medication, and diet change, supplements can also help treat kidney disease and failure. Supplements help cats by providing them with essential nutrients for normal healthy kidney functioning. Many supplements will lower the inflammation involved with poor functioning kidneys. While supplements certainly have their benefits, you should consult your veterinarian for specialized support if your cat displays signs of illness or discomfort.
What to Look for In Cat Kidney Supplements
- Low protein – while protein is vital for a healthy metabolism, excess protein can increase the workload on kidneys, contributing to the progression of kidney disease. Supplements should have no added protein sources.
- Low phosphorus – the link between kidneys and phosphorus is not apparent, but lower phosphorus levels tend to reduce the effects of secondary issues from kidney illness.
- No added sodium – extra sodium can increase the workload of suffering kidneys.
- Omega-3 – fatty acids play a part in reducing inflammation and assisting in slowing kidney decline. Fish oil is also proven to lower blood pressure and reduce unwanted proteins in urine.
- Phosphate binders – while specialized kidney health diets will have low phosphate (which damages the kidneys), your cat will also benefit from phosphate binders in supplements. Binders will reduce the absorption of phosphate in the diet.
- Vitamin C and vitamin B – both vitamins are water-soluble, so they are easily lost from frequent and improperly processed urine. They are both critical for general well-being and immune systems, so it is helpful to supplement them.
- Cranberries – cranberry is great for cats and contains properties that prevent harmful bacteria from sticking to the cells in the kidney and urinary tract lining and prevent UTIs.
- Alkalizers – kidneys play the lead role in regulating the acid-base balance in the body. Cats with kidney disease tend to be more acidic internally due to poor kidney function. Alkaline ions (sodium bicarbonate, potassium citrate, calcium carbonate) are recommended to help bring back the pH balance and reduce symptoms.
Final Thoughts
For cats suffering from kidney decline, disease, or failure, taking them to see a professional veterinary is essential. Kidney disease is irreversible, so your vet will help you support your cat comfortably to live with their condition. Alongside correct nutrition, hydration, and medication, supplements can be exceptional support for your cat’s kidneys. Our top pick is Vetoguinol Epakitin Powder for its active ingredient, chitosan. Our close runner-up and best value is Vet’s Best Chewable Tablets for their naturally derived ingredients for a holistic approach to your cat’s health. These products hold many high reviews, are successful for owners and their adored pets, and may help support your cat!
You might also be interested in:
- 10 Best Senior Cat Foods – Reviews & Top Picks
- 10 Best Cat Foods for Kidney Disease (Low Phosphorus)