We are currently recruiting cats for a clinical study into a new treatment for kidney disease.

If your cat is over 5 years of age, and has symptoms such as weight loss, increased thirst or urination, or reduced appetite, they may benefit from screening for kidney disease and could be eligible for the study.

The study involves regular check-ups over 12 months free of charge, with financial compensation provided.

If you would like to find out more or arrange a screening appointment, please get in touch.

FAQs

• What is the study about?
  This study is looking at whether a new medication can help cats with chronic kidney disease (CKD) by slowing disease progression.

• What does the medication do?
  It helps support the tiny blood vessels in the kidneys, improving blood flow and helping protect kidney function.

• Is it safe?
  Yes—its safety has already been assessed. This study is focused on confirming how effective it is.

• Will my cat definitely receive the medication?
  Not necessarily. Cats are randomly assigned to receive either:
  • The study drug, or
  • A placebo (dummy tablet)
  Neither you nor the vet will know which your cat is receiving during the study.

• What would my cat need to undergo?
  • For cats with no confirmation of CKD yet : An initial pre-screen questionnaire will be sent to you first and if they fit the clinical criteria, we will arrange an appointment with our nurse to have a blood sample taken for one parameter - creatinine (a kidney biomarker). Creatinine must be over 140umol/L to proceed further.
  • For cats with confirmed CKD stage 2 or 3: A screening consultation with our vet including:-
    • Physical exam & thorough clinical history
    • Blood pressure check
    • Blood and urine tests
    • Brief kidney ultrasound
  • If enrolled, during the study period (12 months):-
    • A further 11 in-clinic visits
    • 3 remote check-ins
    • Blood tests at each visit
    • Occasional urine samples and blood pressure checks

• How often are the visits?
  • Every 2 weeks for the first 2 months
  • Then monthly for 5 months
  • Then every 2 months for the final 5 months

• Will my cat need sedation?
  Most cats cope without sedation. If needed, we can provide a mild oral sedative (gabapentin). We only enrol cats who are comfortable with the process without requiring injectable sedatives.

• What do I need to do at home?
  • Give a tablet twice daily
  • Keep a simple daily diary

• Are there any restrictions?
  Yes:
  • Some medications cannot be used during the study
  • General anaesthesia is not permitted during the study period
  If your cat needs these, they would leave the study.

• Can I withdraw my cat?
  Yes—at any time. We may also withdraw cats if:
  • Visits become too stressful
  • Their condition changes significantly
  • They develop another serious illness
  Your cat’s welfare always comes first.

Is there any financial support?

There are no costs to you for any of the visits and there is some financial compensation;

• €65 for the screening visit
• Up to €238 total if the study is completed
(Pro-rated if your cat leaves early, paid in British pounds equivalent)

• Who can take part?
  Cats with:
  • Diagnosed CKD (IRIS stage 2–3)
  • No significant other illnesses that would exclude them

• What are the benefits of taking part?
  • Close monitoring of your cat’s condition
  • Contribution to advancing treatment for feline kidney disease
  • Possible benefit from the study medication

• What are the downsides?
  • Frequent visits, especially early in the study
  • Daily medication and record-keeping
  • Your cat may receive a placebo