If your dog has been diagnosed with kidney disease, they likely require a special diet. Thankfully, this can be beneficial for him in both the short and long run – it will help them live longer and feel better!
Pets with kidney disease must be fed a diet low in phosphorus, sodium and protein. Furthermore, they should receive supplements of omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil for added support.
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Prescription Diets
Your dog’s kidneys filter waste from their bloodstream and keep a balanced level of water and minerals within their body. Furthermore, they help them stay at a healthy weight by aiding with digestion.
A lower protein diet is necessary for dogs with kidney disease to prevent the buildup of waste products in their urine. Additionally, it helps improve perfusion (movement of fluids through the kidneys), so toxic wastes can be flushed from the system and eliminated through your dog’s pee.
Your dog’s food should contain the appropriate balance of protein, phosphorus and sodium; as well as soluble fiber, antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids. Clinical studies have demonstrated that these diets can decrease episodes of uremic crisis and extend your dog’s life with chronic kidney disease.
Hill’s Prescription Diet k/d Kidney Care Dry Dog Food is highly recommended by veterinarians as a therapeutic food that supports kidney function and helps keep muscle mass in your pup. With this dry dog food, Hill’s can guarantee your furry friend a happy, active lifestyle.
Commercial Diets
If your pup’s renal condition is early on, dietary management may help slow its progression. Therapeutic kidney diets usually contain less protein, phosphorus and sodium while providing omega-3 fatty acids, soluble fiber and antioxidants for maximum benefit.
Dogs typically tolerate moderately reduced protein concentrations in their diets. However, when this becomes too restrictive and their bodies struggle to maintain adequate muscle mass levels, they can become hyporexic – leading to both pain and decreased quality of life as well as lower survival rates. This condition is known as hypoplasia.
Commercial renal diets are designed by veterinarian nutritionists with the necessary restrictions in protein, phosphorus and sodium for supporting your dog’s kidney health. Furthermore, these diets contain added soluble fiber and omega-3 fatty acids to support the body’s natural ability to reduce uremia.
Home Cooking
Your dog’s kidneys are essential to their health as they filter waste out of the bloodstream. When these organs don’t function correctly, toxins can build up within the body and lead to serious health issues.
Unfortunately, kidney disease in pets is usually treatable if caught early and properly. There are a few steps you can take to promote their wellbeing and increase their lifespan.
Home cooked foods are an excellent option if you want your pup to receive a high quality diet but lack time or funds for commercial diets. When formulating your homemade food, ensure sodium and phosphorus levels remain low, as well as adding in omega 3 fatty acids for extra nourishment.
Vet approved homemade recipes for renal dogs are easy to prepare. Options include boiled white meat chicken, white rice, plain yogurt and carrots – all packed full of essential nutrients beneficial to the pup’s wellbeing. Just be sure to adhere to your vet’s advice on what you can and cannot feed your pup when following these guidelines.
Treats
Kidney-friendly dog treats can be an invaluable aid in keeping your furry friend feeling well. Many of them are specifically made for dogs with kidney disease and contain a formula designed to support the kidneys and enhance appetite.
Most dog treats are low in protein and sodium, making them safe to feed your pup with a kidney condition. But before giving him any treat, be sure to consult your veterinarian about which one is best suited for him and how much can be given without damaging his kidneys.
In addition to specialized food, other treatments for your dog’s kidney disease include medication to control blood pressure and prevent vomiting. Your vet may suggest a diet or appetite stimulant in order to help your pup maintain his weight during treatment and boost his energy levels. Finally, ensure they get plenty of water during this time so as not to dehydrate themselves.
