Semintra (telmisartan) is the most widely prescribed treatment for chronic kidney disease (CKD) in cats. Manufactured by Boehringer Ingelheim, it is an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) that reduces protein loss through the kidneys and helps control blood pressure. It is available as a palatable oral solution, making it easier to administer than tablets.

Price Comparison

Semintra oral solution (4mg/ml, 30ml bottle — approximately 1 month supply for an average cat):

  • From your vet: £25–£45
  • Online pharmacies (with prescription): £15–£28
  • Prescription fee: £10–£25

Savings of 35–50% are typical when buying Semintra from online pharmacies. Given that CKD is a lifelong condition, these savings are substantial over time.

What Does Semintra Treat?

Semintra is licensed for the reduction of proteinuria (protein in the urine) associated with chronic kidney disease in cats. It is also used to manage systemic hypertension (high blood pressure) in cats, which commonly occurs alongside CKD. CKD affects approximately 1 in 3 cats over the age of 15.

Species and Forms

  • Cats: Oral solution (4mg/ml) in 30ml or 100ml bottles. Dosed at 1mg/kg once daily using the supplied syringe
  • Dogs: Not commonly used — ACE inhibitors like benazepril are typically preferred for canine kidney disease

Side Effects

  • Generally well tolerated
  • Occasional vomiting or diarrhoea, particularly when starting treatment
  • Mild decrease in red blood cell count in some cats
  • Rare hypotension (low blood pressure) — blood pressure monitoring is advisable
  • Regular kidney blood tests (every 3–6 months) are needed to monitor kidney function

Prescription Requirements

Semintra is POM-V. A written prescription from your vet allows you to purchase from online pharmacies at significant savings.

How to Save

  • Written prescription: Save 35–50% by buying from online pharmacies
  • 100ml bottles: Larger bottles are cheaper per ml than 30ml bottles if your cat is on a stable dose
  • Compare pharmacy prices: Use VetCost to compare prices across online pharmacies
  • Kidney diet combined: A prescription kidney diet (which slows CKD progression) may reduce the amount of medication needed over time

Last updated: March 2026. Sources: VMD product datasheet, CMA provisional decision (October 2025), VetCost pharmacy data.