A Concerning Trend in US CKD Care
Since its establishment, Greycoat Research has provided over 1,000 free, customized 1:1 consultations for cats suffering from chronic kidney disease (CKD), primarily in Korea, Japan, and the US. Greycoat Research works closely with Dr. Toru Miyazaki, the researcher who identified AIM and its role in cat CKD, integrating his findings into our care strategies to enhance treatment outcomes.
Dr. Toru Miyazaki delivers a lecture on AIM at a seminar on cat CKD in Korea.
As an expert advisor, Dr. Miyazaki plays an active role in guiding our consultations, ensuring that the latest advancements in CKD management are applied to help cats live longer, healthier lives. Through these consultations, we have identified a troubling pattern—many veterinarians in the US recommend euthanasia for CKD cats too soon and too frequently.
Cat CKD is progressive but manageable. With proper care, cats can live fulfilling lives even in the later stages. However, many US veterinarians view late-stage CKD as an insurmountable burden rather than a condition to be managed.
What's Different in Korea and Japan?
Dr. Kim Jae-young of Korea's Taeneung Cat Hospital with his cat Mingky, who lived to be 28 years old. Dr. Kim provides Greycoat Research with his expert counsel.
Korea and Japan have some of the highest populations of cats diagnosed with CKD. Ironically, this has led these nations to develop some of the most advanced cat CKD care in the world. Cats in Korea and Japan enjoy longer and better-quality lives compared to their counterparts elsewhere, particularly in the US. Three key factors contribute to this:
-
Longevity of Cats
CKD is more common in older cats, as kidney function naturally declines with age. In Korea and Japan, cats tend to live longer due to better veterinary care and a focus on preventive health measures, which also leads to earlier CKD detection and better long-term management.
-
Emphasis on Early Detection
Early detection plays a significant role in CKD management. Korean and Japanese veterinarians encourage regular screenings, leading to diagnoses at earlier stages (stages 1 and 2). In contrast, many US-based cat owners only receive a CKD diagnosis when their cats are already in stage 3 or 4, significantly reducing their treatment options and life expectancy.
-
Commitment to Prolonging Life
In Korea and Japan, the standard approach to cat CKD is active management rather than premature euthanasia. Veterinarians and pet owners work together to extend a cat’s lifespan while maintaining its quality of life. Cutting-edge treatments such as specialized diets, tailored supplements, and subcutaneous fluid therapy are widely utilized to help CKD cats live comfortably for years.
Too Early to Euthanize
A recurring theme in our consultations with US-based cat owners is that their veterinarians have already suggested euthanasia—often shortly after a late-stage diagnosis. While we acknowledge that not all US veterinarians hold this view, the pattern remains troubling.
The primary reason behind this approach appears to be a perception that CKD is a hopeless disease. Since kidney function cannot be restored and the disease is progressive, many believe that CKD cats live in constant pain. This belief leads to the assumption that euthanasia is the most humane option.
Greycoat Research strongly disagrees.
Many of the cat owners who seek our help do so because they reject their veterinarian’s recommendation. They believe their cats still have the will to live—and we agree. Our case studies show that, with proper management, even cats in stage 4 CKD can regain energy, eat well, and continue enjoying their lives.
Advancements in Cat CKD Care
Korea and Japan are at the forefront of recent advancements in cat CKD care, pioneering treatments that have shown late-stage CKD does not mean immediate decline. Greycoat Research provides consultations on care and supplements to help cat owners implement these cutting-edge strategies. These advancements include:
-
AIM-based protocols: Research by Dr. Toru Miyazaki has identified AIM as a key factor in clearing kidney waste, leading to new supplement protocols that slow CKD progression.
-
Stage-specific CKD supplements: Supplements tailored for each stage of CKD have successfully completed clinical trials, to ensure more effective management of cat CKD.
-
Stem cell therapy: Experimental treatments using stem cells have shown promise in reducing inflammation and improving kidney function.
- Optimized subcutaneous fluid therapy: Increased knowledge of how to select and administer the right subcutaneous fluids helps maintain electrolyte balance, improving overall stability in CKD cats.
These cutting-edge advancements are setting new standards for cat CKD treatment, giving cats better chances at longer, healthier lives. Research by Dr. Toru Miyazaki has identified AIM as a key factor in clearing kidney waste, leading to new supplement protocols that slow CKD progression.
The Case of Minky, the Oldest Cat in Korea
Minky was the oldest cat in Korea and lived to be 28 years old despite CKD.
Minky was a Persian cat who lived to be 28 years old, making her the oldest known cat in Korea. She was cared for by Dr. Kim Jae-young of Taeneung Cat Hospital and was diagnosed with CKD in her later years. Despite her diagnosis, Minky’s condition was managed with a structured care plan that included dietary adjustments, subcutaneous fluids, and other supportive treatments to maintain her kidney function.
In her final years, Minky also experienced significant vision loss. However, even after losing her eyesight, she continued to navigate her environment with confidence and remained engaged with those around her. Through careful monitoring and expert care, Minky lived comfortably for years after her CKD diagnosis. Her story highlights how proper CKD management, even in cases of vision loss, can help senior cats maintain a high quality of life.
Late-stage CKD Is Not the End
While CKD is undoubtedly a challenging condition, it does not have to be a death sentence. The right care—early detection, specialized treatment, and proactive management—can extend a cat’s life significantly while maintaining its well-being.
Unfortunately, too many CKD cats in the US are denied this chance due to a prevailing mindset that euthanasia is the only option. In Korea and Japan, however, the philosophy is different—care, not surrender, is the priority.
If your cat has been diagnosed with CKD, don’t give up hope. Greycoat Research is dedicated to providing innovative solutions and expert guidance to support both cats and their caregivers. Greycoat Research is here to provide the knowledge and support you need.
Your Cat Deserves Better
Greycoat Research has a 97% success rate in improving kidney health in stage 2 and 3 CKD cats through early detection and targeted interventions. By implementing structured care plans, we have helped countless cats stabilize their condition and maintain a higher quality of life.
Greycoat Research has helped over 1,000 CKD cats receive the care they deserve. If you’re unsure how to proceed with your cat’s diagnosis, don’t hesitate to reach out. We offer free, expert consultations to guide you through the best options available.
Your cat still has a chance to live happily. Let us help you make that happen.
