French firm Virbac launches first medicated kibble to treat kidney disease in cats

The world’s first medicated kibble for cats, designed to help owners treat chronic kidney disease without the struggle of forcing their pets to swallow them, has been unveiled by a French animal health company.

The innovation, announced on September 24 by Virbac, targets one of the most common and debilitating illnesses in ageing cats. 

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects an estimated one in three cats over the age of eight, and the risk rises significantly after the age of ten. 

While the condition cannot be cured, early diagnosis and consistent treatment can slow its progression and extend quality of life.

Until now, this treatment has often involved daily medication, which many cats resist. 

Getting a cat to swallow a pill can be so difficult that in some cases owners abandon treatment altogether. 

A widely-reported Virbac survey of 300 veterinarians in France, Spain and Germany found that up to 50% of owners considered stopping therapy because of the daily battle with their pets.

Medicated kibble

Virbac’s new product - named Vikaly - seeks to remove that obstacle. 

The kibble contains a standard veterinary medicine, validated for use in cats, coated around a specific nutritional base. 

The company says the taste and texture are designed to encourage cats to eat voluntarily, turning what was once a stressful task into part of a normal feeding routine.

“Combining a key medication with a complete food has been our goal for more than fifteen years,” said Bertrand Havrileck, Virbac’s group research and development director. “We are proud to see this vision become reality with the launch of the first medicated food for companion animals worldwide.”

The kibble will be manufactured at Virbac facilities in Carros (Alpes-Maritimes) and Vauvert (Gard), both of which already supply pet food and veterinary medicines. 

It will be available only by veterinary prescription and is expected to reach European markets by the end of 2025, with distribution planned in around 30 countries.

Chronic kidney disease in cats

Chronic kidney disease is one of the main causes of death in older cats, and symptoms can be subtle in the early stages. 

Increased thirst, weight loss, reduced appetite and lethargy are among the signs that should prompt a veterinary visit. Early intervention, combined with consistent treatment, can add years of good quality life.

Ensuring they drink enough water is essential, as dehydration accelerates kidney damage. Special low-phosphorus diets are also frequently recommended. 

For owners, the launch of Virbac may offer welcome relief, and - if the development proves successful - could lead to the development of more edible treatments for chronic illnesses in pets.