Last updated: March 25, 2026

Elura (Capromorelin) for Cats: The FDA-Approved Appetite Stimulant for CKD

Weight loss is one of the most heartbreaking signs of chronic kidney disease in cats. Watching a beloved feline companion slowly lose interest in food — and waste away despite your best efforts — is an experience no pet owner wants to face. Fortunately, Elura for cats offers a scientifically backed, FDA-approved solution specifically designed to manage weight loss in cats with chronic kidney disease. If your veterinarian has mentioned capromorelin or Elura, this comprehensive guide covers how it works, what to expect, proper dosing, potential side effects, and how it fits into a broader CKD management plan.

Table of Contents

• What Is Elura (Capromorelin)?
• FDA Approval and Why It Matters
• How Elura Works in Cats
• Understanding Weight Loss in Cats With CKD
• Which Cats Can Benefit From Elura?
• Dosing and Administration
• Potential Side Effects of Elura in Cats
• What the Clinical Studies Show
• Elura vs. Mirtazapine: Comparing Appetite Stimulants
• Elura as Part of a CKD Management Plan
• Frequently Asked Questions About Elura for Cats

What Is Elura (Capromorelin)?

Elura is the brand name for capromorelin oral solution, a prescription medication manufactured by Elanco Animal Health. It is the first and only FDA-approved medication specifically indicated for the management of weight loss in cats with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The active ingredient, capromorelin, is a ghrelin receptor agonist — meaning it mimics the action of ghrelin, a naturally occurring hormone that stimulates appetite and promotes the release of growth hormone.

Unlike many medications used in feline medicine that are prescribed off-label from human formulations, Elura was developed and tested specifically for use in cats. It comes as a flavored oral solution designed to be administered directly into the cat’s mouth using a provided dosing syringe, making it considerably easier to give than tablets or compounded medications.

FDA Approval and Why It Matters

Elura received FDA approval in 2021 through the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine, making it a landmark product in feline nephrology care. Prior to Elura, there were no FDA-approved appetite stimulants specifically for cats, which meant veterinarians relied on off-label medications with limited clinical data supporting their use in CKD patients.

FDA approval means the medication has undergone rigorous testing in controlled clinical trials to demonstrate both safety and efficacy in the target species. For Elura for cats, this included a large-scale, multi-site field study conducted in cats with naturally occurring CKD. For cat owners, FDA approval provides a level of confidence that off-label alternatives simply cannot match.

How Elura Works in Cats

Ghrelin is sometimes called the “hunger hormone” because it stimulates appetite and promotes the release of growth hormone. In cats with chronic kidney disease, the buildup of uremic toxins, nausea, and systemic inflammation often suppresses natural appetite signals. Cats may feel nauseated from elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels and lose interest in food entirely.

Capromorelin works by binding to the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R1a) — the same receptor ghrelin targets. By activating these receptors, Elura for cats effectively tells the brain that the cat is hungry, even when the effects of CKD are suppressing natural appetite. Additionally, the growth hormone release triggered by capromorelin may help counteract muscle wasting that commonly accompanies CKD-related weight loss.

This dual mechanism — appetite stimulation plus growth hormone release — is what makes capromorelin particularly promising for CKD cats. It does not simply make the cat eat more; it also addresses some of the underlying hormonal imbalances that contribute to the wasting syndrome seen in advanced kidney disease.

Understanding Weight Loss in Cats With CKD

Chronic kidney disease is one of the most common conditions affecting older cats, with some studies estimating that up to 30–40% of cats over the age of 10 have some degree of kidney impairment. Weight loss is among the earliest and most consistent signs of CKD progression and is directly linked to poorer outcomes and shorter survival times.

The causes of weight loss in CKD cats are multifactorial:

• Decreased appetite (anorexia): Uremic toxins that accumulate when the kidneys can no longer filter properly cause nausea and a diminished interest in food.
• Muscle wasting (sarcopenia): CKD triggers metabolic changes that break down muscle protein for energy, even when cats are still eating some food.
• Chronic inflammation: The inflammatory cytokines associated with CKD increase metabolic rate while simultaneously suppressing appetite — a devastating combination.
• Altered taste and smell: Uremic toxins can change how food tastes and smells to a cat, making previously favorite foods unappealing.
• Gastrointestinal complications: CKD can cause gastritis, mouth ulcers, and acid reflux, all of which make eating uncomfortable.

Many owners first notice that their cat is becoming pickier about food, eating smaller amounts, or losing weight despite appearing to eat normally. Because cats are masters at hiding illness, weight loss may be gradual and go unnoticed until it becomes severe. Regular weigh-ins at home or at veterinary visits are essential for catching changes early. Certain breeds may be more predisposed to kidney issues — explore our cat breeds directory to learn about breed-specific health considerations.

Which Cats Can Benefit From Elura?

Elura is specifically indicated for cats diagnosed with chronic kidney disease who are experiencing unintended weight loss. It is generally considered appropriate for cats in IRIS (International Renal Interest Society) stages 2 through 4 of CKD who have documented weight loss or declining body condition scores.

Your veterinarian may recommend Elura if your cat:

• Has been diagnosed with CKD through blood work (elevated creatinine, BUN, and/or SDMA) and urinalysis
• Is losing weight or has a declining body condition score
• Shows decreased appetite or is eating less than usual
• Has not responded adequately to dietary changes alone
• Needs support maintaining lean body mass

Elura is not a cure for CKD, nor does it slow the progression of kidney disease itself. Its role is to manage the weight loss that accompanies CKD, helping cats maintain body condition and quality of life. Cats with known hypersensitivity to capromorelin, certain endocrine disorders, or cats that are pregnant or lactating may not be suitable candidates. Your veterinarian will evaluate your cat’s full medical history before prescribing.

Dosing and Administration

The medication is supplied as a flavored oral solution at a concentration of 15 mg/mL, packaged with a calibrated dosing syringe. The recommended dose is 2 mg/kg (0.9 mg/lb) body weight, administered orally once daily.

Practical tips for administering Elura:

• Give at the same time each day to maintain consistent drug levels.
• Administer before meals when possible, as the appetite-stimulating effects work best when food is available shortly after dosing.
• Store properly: Keep the bottle at room temperature and use within the timeframe specified on the label.
• Use the provided syringe: Insert into the side of the mouth, between the cheek and teeth, and dispense slowly.

Important: Never adjust the dose without consulting your veterinarian. If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, but do not double up on doses.

Potential Side Effects of Elura in Cats

Like any medication, Elura for cats can cause side effects, though the majority of cats tolerate it well. In clinical trials, the most commonly reported side effects included:

• Vomiting: The most frequently observed adverse reaction, occurring in some cats during the first days of treatment. It is often mild and transient.
• Hypersalivation (drooling): Some cats may drool shortly after receiving the oral solution. This is usually brief and resolves on its own.
• Diarrhea: Loose stools were reported in a small percentage of cats during clinical studies.
• Elevated blood glucose: Because capromorelin stimulates growth hormone release, it can temporarily raise blood sugar levels. This is particularly important to monitor in cats with concurrent diabetes mellitus.
• Lethargy or inappetence: Paradoxically, a small number of cats may show reduced activity or continued poor appetite despite treatment.

Serious adverse reactions are uncommon. However, because Elura stimulates growth hormone, your veterinarian will likely recommend regular blood work monitoring — including glucose levels — especially during the initial weeks of treatment. If you notice any unusual symptoms, contact your veterinarian promptly. Do not discontinue the medication abruptly without veterinary guidance.

What the Clinical Studies Show

The FDA approval of Elura was supported by a pivotal field study enrolling cats with naturally occurring CKD across multiple veterinary clinics. Key findings include:

• Cats treated with Elura maintained or gained body weight compared to placebo-treated cats, who continued to lose weight.
• The weight difference was statistically significant, demonstrating that appetite stimulation translates into meaningful clinical outcomes.
• Improvements in body condition scores were observed, suggesting the weight gain included lean body mass.
• The medication was well tolerated, with adverse event rates comparable between treatment and placebo groups.

Elura has not been shown to reverse CKD or alter kidney function parameters such as creatinine or BUN. Its benefit lies in managing progressive weight loss and muscle wasting that erode quality of life.

Elura vs. Mirtazapine: Comparing Appetite Stimulants

Before Elura became available, mirtazapine was the most commonly used appetite stimulant for cats with CKD. A transdermal formulation (Mirataz) received FDA approval for weight management in cats, though its mechanism and indications differ from Elura. Here is how the two compare:

• Mechanism: Elura works through the ghrelin pathway, directly stimulating hunger signals and growth hormone release. Mirtazapine works through serotonin and histamine receptor antagonism.
• FDA indication: Elura is approved specifically for weight loss in cats with CKD. Mirataz is approved for unintended weight loss in cats more broadly.
• Administration: Elura is an oral liquid given by syringe. Mirataz is a transdermal ointment applied to the inner ear pinna.
• Growth hormone effects: Elura uniquely stimulates growth hormone release, which may help preserve lean muscle mass. Mirtazapine does not have this effect.
• Side effects: Both can cause vomiting. Mirtazapine may also cause vocalization and agitation. Elura may affect blood glucose levels.

Your veterinarian will recommend the most appropriate option based on your cat’s stage of CKD, concurrent conditions, and practical considerations such as ease of administration.

Elura as Part of a CKD Management Plan

Effective management of chronic kidney disease in cats requires a multifaceted approach. Elura for cats is an important tool, but it works best as one component of a comprehensive care plan that may include:

• Renal prescription diets: Therapeutic diets formulated with reduced phosphorus, moderate protein, and added omega-3 fatty acids remain a cornerstone of CKD management.
• Fluid therapy: Subcutaneous fluid administration helps maintain hydration and flush out uremic toxins, often improving appetite and overall well-being.
• Phosphorus binders: If phosphorus levels are elevated despite dietary management, binders like aluminum hydroxide may be added to reduce phosphorus absorption.
• Anti-nausea medications: Drugs such as maropitant (Cerenia) or ondansetron can help control the nausea that contributes to appetite loss in CKD cats.
• Blood pressure management: Many CKD cats develop hypertension, which requires its own treatment to prevent organ damage.
• Regular monitoring: Frequent veterinary visits with blood work, urinalysis, and blood pressure checks help track disease progression and adjust treatment as needed.
• Environmental comfort: Ensuring easy access to fresh water, multiple litter boxes, warm resting spots, and low-stress feeding areas supports overall quality of life.

The introduction of Elura into a CKD management plan should be viewed as a proactive step to prevent severe weight loss before it becomes a crisis. Starting appetite support early — when weight loss is first documented — may yield better outcomes than waiting until a cat is severely emaciated and debilitated.

If you are caring for a cat with CKD, or thinking about welcoming a rescue cat that may have health needs, consider exploring the cats available through our adoption page. Many cats with manageable chronic conditions like CKD make wonderful, loving companions and deserve a second chance at a comfortable life.

Frequently Asked Questions About Elura for Cats

Is Elura the same as Entyce?

Both contain capromorelin, but they are different products for different species. Entyce is approved for dogs, while Elura is formulated for cats with CKD. The two have different concentrations and should never be used interchangeably.

How quickly does Elura start working?

Most cats show increased interest in food within the first few days of starting Elura. Some owners report their cats eating more within 24 to 48 hours of the first dose. However, meaningful weight gain typically takes several weeks of consistent daily administration. Patience and consistency are key.

Can Elura be used in cats without CKD?

Elura is FDA-approved specifically for managing weight loss in cats with chronic kidney disease. While capromorelin may have appetite-stimulating effects in cats with other conditions, using it outside its approved indication would be considered off-label. Your veterinarian can advise whether Elura or another appetite stimulant is more appropriate for your cat’s specific situation.

Does Elura cure chronic kidney disease?

No. Elura does not treat, cure, or slow the progression of CKD itself. It is a supportive medication that manages one of the most impactful consequences of the disease — weight loss. CKD remains a progressive condition that requires ongoing management with diet, fluids, and other treatments as appropriate.

Can Elura be given with other CKD medications?

Elura is generally considered compatible with other medications commonly used in CKD management, including phosphorus binders, anti-nausea drugs, antihypertensives, and renal diets. However, because capromorelin can affect blood glucose, extra caution is warranted in cats that are also receiving insulin or other diabetes medications. Always inform your veterinarian of all medications and supplements your cat is receiving.

What should I do if my cat vomits after taking Elura?

Occasional vomiting is the most common side effect and often resolves within the first few days of treatment. If your cat vomits shortly after dosing, do not re-dose. Simply resume the normal dosing schedule the following day. If vomiting persists or is severe, contact your veterinarian, as they may need to adjust the treatment approach.

How long can my cat stay on Elura?

Elura is designed for long-term use as part of ongoing CKD management. In clinical studies, cats received the medication for extended periods. Your veterinarian will monitor your cat’s weight, bloodwork, and overall condition to determine whether continued treatment is appropriate. As long as the benefits outweigh any risks, many cats remain on Elura indefinitely.

Is Elura expensive, and where can I get it?

The cost of Elura varies depending on your location, veterinary clinic, and your cat’s weight. It is a prescription medication that must be obtained through a licensed veterinarian — it is not available over the counter. Pet insurance plans that cover prescription medications may help offset the cost. Discuss pricing with your veterinary team.

Caring for a cat with chronic kidney disease requires dedication, but modern veterinary medicine has given us more tools than ever to help these cats live longer, more comfortable lives. Elura for cats represents a meaningful advancement in CKD care — a targeted, FDA-approved medication that addresses one of the most challenging aspects of the disease. If you think your cat could benefit from Elura, talk to your veterinarian about whether it is the right choice for your feline companion. And if you have room in your heart and home for a cat in need, visit our adoption page to meet cats waiting for their forever families.