Every year, World Veterinary Day serves as a reminder of the critical role veterinarians play in safeguarding the health and well-being of our pets. However, beyond the appreciation posts and social media tributes, it’s also a timely nudge for pet parents to ask a simple question: When was the last time my pet visited the vet? When it comes to both cats and dogs, what you don’t see can often matter most.
Cats have earned a reputation for independence, and that independence extends to how they experience illness. Unlike dogs, who are often more expressive when something feels off, cats are biologically wired to hide discomfort.
“Myth-busting is important here,” says Dr Karien Brink from Hill’s Pet Nutrition. “Many pet parents assume that if their cat is eating and behaving ‘normally’, they are healthy. But cats are incredibly good at masking signs of illness, especially in the early stages.” This means that by the time visible symptoms appear, a condition may already be advanced.
Dogs, while generally more demonstrative, are not immune to this either. Subtle changes in behaviour, appetite or energy levels can go unnoticed.
Chronic kidney disease
One of the most significant health concerns, particularly in cats, is chronic kidney disease (CKD).
Research shows that one in three cats will develop CKD in their lifetime, making it one of the most common chronic conditions in ageing cats. It is also recognised as one of the leading causes of death in cats, underscoring the importance of early detection and ongoing care. The challenge? It develops slowly and silently.
“Kidney disease in cats develops gradually, which means many pet parents don’t realise there’s a problem until it has progressed,” explains Dr Brink. “With early detection and the right nutritional support, we can significantly improve both quality of life and longevity.”
While CKD is more commonly associated with cats, dogs can also develop kidney-related conditions.
Why annual vet visits are non-negotiable
If there’s one takeaway this World Veterinary Day, it’s this: annual check-ups are not optional, they are essential.
Routine veterinary visits allow for:
- Early detection of chronic conditions like kidney disease
- Monitoring of subtle changes in weight, hydration, and organ function
- Preventative care tailored to your pet’s age and lifestyle
- Nutritional guidance that supports long-term health
- Keeping vaccinations up to date to protect against preventable diseases
For senior pets (typically from around seven years of age and five years in large breed dogs), these visits become even more critical, as the risk of chronic disease increases significantly.
The signs you might be missing
Pets can’t tell us when something is wrong, so awareness is key. Subtle warning signs, especially in cats, can include:
- Increased thirst or urination
- Gradual weight loss
- Reduced appetite
- Lethargy or decreased activity
- Changes in coat condition
“These signs are often easy to overlook or attribute to ‘just getting older,” says Dr Brink. “But they can be early indicators of something more serious.”
Nutrition as part of long-term management
For chronic conditions such as CKD, treatment is less about reversal and more about management.
Targeted nutrition plays a central role. There are therapeutic diets formulated to reduce the workload on the kidneys, regulate key nutrient levels, increase appetite, and support overall condition.
“Nutrition is one of the most effective tools we have in managing chronic disease,” says Dr Brink. “When introduced early, it can help stabilise progression and maintain quality of life for longer.” Clinical studies have shown that Hill’s Prescription Diet k/d cat and dog food can extend and improve the quality of life in pets with chronic kidney disease.
A simple act of care that goes a long way
For pet parents World Veterinary Day can be seen as a prompt for action. Booking that annual check-up, asking questions and being proactive about your pet’s health can make the difference between catching a condition early or managing it too late.
Whether you share your home with a quietly resilient cat or an expressive, tail-wagging dog, the truth is the same: They rely on you to notice what they cannot say.
