Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive and common condition affecting both dogs and cats, particularly as they age. In the UK, CKD is one of the leading causes of chronic illness in senior pets.

While the condition is significantly more prevalent in cats — with studies suggesting up to 50% of cats over 10 years old and as many as 50–80% over 15 years showing some degree of renal dysfunction — it is also regularly diagnosed in older dogs, especially certain predisposed breeds.

Regardless of species, one important and often under-recognised complication of CKD is hypokalaemia, or low potassium levels. This electrolyte imbalance can have serious consequences for muscle strength, heart function, nerve signalling and overall vitality.

Understanding Potassium’s Role in the Body

Potassium is a vital mineral responsible for:

• Maintaining normal muscle contraction

• Supporting stable heart rhythm

• Enabling nerve impulse transmission

• Regulating fluid and electrolyte balance

• Supporting cellular metabolism

Healthy kidneys carefully regulate potassium levels in the bloodstream. When kidney function declines, potassium may be lost excessively through urine. Over time, this can lead to deficiency, particularly in pets with ongoing renal disease.

Hypokalaemia is especially well documented in feline CKD, but it is also seen in dogs with chronic renal insufficiency, gastrointestinal losses, or prolonged illness. Research from Colorado State University found that 37% of sick cats presented with low potassium levels, with prevalence increasing alongside age and disease severity.

Clinical Signs of Low Potassium in Dogs and Cats

Early signs may be subtle and easily mistaken for normal ageing. Pet owners and clinicians should be aware of:

• Generalised weakness

• Muscle tremors

• Reduced mobility or stiffness

• Difficulty jumping or climbing stairs

• Lethargy

• Decreased appetite

• Progressive weight or muscle loss

• Irregular heartbeat

• Delayed recovery following illness or surgery

In cats, severe hypokalaemia may result in ventroflexion of the neck (a dropped-neck posture). In dogs, weakness and exercise intolerance are more commonly observed.

Because CKD often develops gradually, pets may not show obvious clinical signs until significant kidney function has already been lost. Mild increases in thirst, more frequent urination, or small behavioural changes should prompt veterinary assessment — particularly in senior animals.

The Importance of Monitoring and Early Intervention

CKD management is multifactorial and typically includes:

• Prescription renal diets

• Routine blood and urine monitoring

• Blood pressure control

• Hydration management

• Correction of electrolyte imbalances

Maintaining proper potassium levels is essential to preventing secondary complications such as muscle wasting, fatigue and cardiac instability.

Early detection of hypokalaemia allows for targeted supplementation under veterinary supervision, helping to stabilise patients and improve day-to-day wellbeing.

How VBS Amino B+K Supports Dogs and Cats with CKD

VBS Amino B+K is a veterinary-formulated liquid supplement developed to provide potassium and key supportive nutrients for dogs and cats at risk of electrolyte imbalance due to CKD or other chronic conditions.

Key Nutritional Components

Potassium (as Potassium Gluconate)
Supports electrolyte balance, neuromuscular function and cardiac stability. Helps prevent and correct hypokalaemia when used appropriately.

Amino Acids
Provide essential building blocks for protein synthesis, muscle maintenance and tissue repair — particularly important in pets experiencing muscle loss.

Vitamin B Complex
Supports energy metabolism, red blood cell production and overall cellular function. B vitamins may be depleted in chronic disease states.

Iron and Spirulina
Assist with oxygen transport and antioxidant protection, contributing to improved vitality and recovery support.

The liquid formulation allows flexible dosing and easy administration, either directly or mixed with food, which can be particularly helpful in pets with reduced appetite.

Supporting Long-Term Quality of Life

Chronic kidney disease is progressive, but with appropriate veterinary management and nutritional support, many dogs and cats can maintain a good quality of life for extended periods.

Addressing potassium deficiency is a crucial part of that strategy. When combined with renal nutrition, hydration support and regular monitoring, targeted supplementation may help:

• Improve strength and mobility

• Support appetite and energy

• Enhance recovery

• Maintain cardiac stability

• Promote overall comfort

Supplements should always be used alongside — not instead of — professional veterinary care, with potassium levels monitored to ensure safe and effective management.

VBS Amino B+K is available at indarpet.co.uk/shop

Question for you: Is your dog or cat showing subtle signs of slowing down — and could an underlying potassium imbalance be contributing to it?