What not to feed a dog with kidney disease
What To Feed a Dog With Kidney Disease
Nutrition plays a big role in the management of dogs with kidney disease. Because dogs with kidney disease usually arent feeling well, the first step is often to merely get your dog to eat anything.
Kidney disease can make dogs nauseated, and they can also develop ulcers in their mouth or stomach, which makes eating painful. A feeding tube may be necessary to get dogs with severe kidney disease the nutrition they need.
Once your dogs condition is more stable, you can turn your attention to providing more optimized nutrition. Kidney diets for dogs have to tick a lot of boxes. Heres a guide that explains nutritional needs and what to feed a dog with kidney disease.
What To Look For in a Kidney Diet for Dogs
Kidney diets for dogs are significantly different from regular dog foods. However, no single kidney diet is going to be best for every dog throughout the rest of their life.
For example, a dog in the early stages of kidney disease could thrive on a kidney diet with more protein, but as their disease progresses, a diet lower in protein and phosphorus might better control their symptoms.
As a rule of thumb, good kidney diets for dogs tend to have anutrient profilethat looks like this:
Nutrient | Grams/1000 kcal |
Protein | 31-41 |
Phosphorus | 0.5-0.8 |
Sodium | 0.4-1.2 |
EPA and DHA | 0.4-1.2 |
Unfortunately, it can be hard tofind this information on dog food labelsor on pet food manufacturers websites. If you are having trouble getting the numbers, your veterinarian can help you pick a good kidney diet based on your dogs needs.
Here are several important elements to look for in kidney diets for dogs:
Taste
The most important characteristic of a kidney diet for dogs can be the hardest to achieve: It has to be delicious! Thats because the metabolic and physical changes associated with kidney disease can lessen a dogs appetite.
To counteract this effect, kidney diets need to smell and taste great. After all, a kidney diet that isnt eaten isnt going to do a dog any good. Kidney diets should also be calorie- and nutrient-dense, so dogs can eat less and still get a lot of nutrition.
Hydration and Water Content
Kidney diets should also contain a lot of water. Dogs with kidney disease struggle to maintain their hydration. All dogs always need to have access to bowls of fresh clean water, but a diet that has high water content is a great way to boost a pets water intake when they have kidney disease.
Wet foods are almost always a better option for dogs with kidney disease than dry foods. If you are feeding your dog kibble, ask your veterinarian about adding water to the dry food or other ways you can supplement their water intake.
It's also important to keep an eye on the sodium levels in kidney diets for dogs. Too much sodium increases the chances that your dog will becomedehydrated.
The Right Amount of the Right Protein
Next comes the balancing act that is protein. Dogs with kidney disease need protein, but not too much. The breakdown products of protein digestion are responsible, in large part, for making dogs with kidney disease feel yucky.
The goal is to feed just enough protein to meet a dogs needs for muscle maintenance, immune function, and the other vital jobs proteins have in the bodybut not to feed too much more. Extra protein will only be turned into calories that can be more safely provided by carbohydrates and fats.
Protein quality is also important. Proteins should be highly digestible and supply all the essential amino acids dogs need.
Low Phosphorus Levels
Theres a close relationship between protein intake and blood phosphorus levels. Dogs with kidney disease gradually lose the ability to excrete phosphorus in their urine, so it backs up in the bloodstream. Reducing phosphorus intake has been shown to slow the progression of kidney disease in dogs and increase their lifespan.
An important way to reduce phosphorus levels in the diets of dogs with kidney disease is to not overfeed protein and to ensure thatproteins relatively low in phosphorusare included in the diet. Plant-based sources of protein tend to be lower in phosphorus than animal-based sources of protein.
Supplements
Nutritional supplements can also help dogs with kidney disease. Supplements often included in kidney diets for dogs include:
Omega-3fatty acids:eicosapentaenoicacid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which can reduce inflammation in the bodyincluding in the kidneysand possibly improve kidney function
Antioxidants,which neutralize free radicals that can further damage the kidneys
Fermentable fiber,which helps get rid of protein digestion waste products in poop. This allows dogs to eat more protein than they might be able to otherwise.
Prescription Kidney Diets vs. Homemade Kidney Diets for Dogs
What abouthomemade kidney diets for dogs? Astudypublished in 2012 showed how hard it is to find nutritionally complete and balanced kidney diet recipes in books and online. Of the 39 recipes evaluated, none met all the National Research Councils recommended nutrient allowances for adult dogs.
In contrast, prescription kidney diets produced by reputable dog food manufacturers undergo testing to ensure they are safe for long-term feeding and have a positive effect on a dogs health.
How To Cook for Dogs With Kidney Disease
One big benefit of homemade kidney diets, however, is taste. If your dog simply wont eat anything else, a homemade kidney diet is worth considering. To avoid nutrient deficiencies or excesses, make sure a veterinary nutritionist or a service likeBalanceIT, which requires veterinarian approval, is involved in formulating recipes for your dog.
Common Prescription Kidney Diets for Dogs
After a dog has been diagnosed with kidney disease and their condition is stabilized, veterinarians typically recommend switching over to a prescription kidney diet. Your veterinarian may have recommended a particular food based on the details of your dogs case. Here are three popular options:
Hill's Prescription Diet k/d Kidney Careis available in wet and dry formulations and different flavors:
How To Transition Your Dog to a Kidney Diet
special attention to how you make the transition. Do notchange your dogs foodwhile they are still nauseated or feeling bad. They may associate their symptoms with their new food and refuse to eat it.
Once your dog has a good appetite, start making the switch very slowly. Give them lots of time to get used to the new flavors, textures, and ingredients. This reduces the chance of food refusal and lets your dogs digestive system adapt.
Here is a timetable for taking two weeks to switch your dog to a new diet:
Days 1 and 2:Mix 5% of the new food in with 95% of the old food
Days 3 and 4:Mix 10% of the new food in with 90% of the old food
Days 5 and 6:Mix 20% of the new food in with 80% of the old food
Days 7 and 8:Mix 40% of the new food in with 60% of the old food
Days 9 and 10:Mix 60% of the new food in with 40% of the old food
Days 11 and 12:Mix 80% of the new food in with 20% of the old food
Days 13 and 14:Mix 90% of the new food in with 10% of the old food
Day 15:Try 100% of the new food
If at any point your dog turns their nose up at their food or develops signs of digestive upset, move back a step in the timetable and proceed more slowly.
Signs to Watch for After Starting Your Dog on a Kidney Diet
Dont give up if you initially have trouble switching your dog to a kidney diet. Call your veterinarian if your dog wont eat the recommended food. They can help by:
Recommending an appropriate food topper to make the food more appealing. Avoid products that are high in phosphorus and salt.
Prescribing medications to reduce nausea, stomach inflammation, ulcers, or other symptoms that may be reducing your dogs appetite
Recommending a different prescription kidney diet or, if necessary, a suitable over-the-counter food
Referring you to a veterinary nutritionist to get recipes for homemade kidney diets
Talking to you about the benefits of a feeding tube
Many dogs with kidney disease live happily for quite a long time, particularly if they get the right kind of nutrition. Onestudyshowed that on average, dogs who were fed a kidney diet lived 13 months longer than those who ate regular dog food. Thats certainly a goal worth striving for!
Featured image: iStock.com/RichLegg
WRITTEN BY
Jennifer Coates, DVMVeterinarian
Dr. Jennifer Coates is an accomplished veterinarian, writer, editor, and consultant with years of experience in the fields of veterinary...
Dog With Kidney Failure Not Eating
[ad_1]Dog With Kidney Failure Not Eating: What You Need to Know
Kidney failure in dogs is a serious and often life-threatening condition that requires prompt attention and treatment. One of the most common symptoms of kidney failure in dogs is a loss of appetite, which can be concerning for pet owners. In this article, we will explore the reasons why a dog with kidney failure may not be eating, as well as provide tips and advice on how to encourage your furry friend to eat. We will also address common concerns and provide answers to help you navigate this difficult situation.
Reasons Why a Dog With Kidney Failure May Not Be Eating
There are several reasons why a dog with kidney failure may not be eating. One of the primary reasons is the build-up of toxins in the body due to the kidneys inability to properly filter waste products. This can cause nausea and a general feeling of malaise, which can lead to a decreased appetite.
Another reason why a dog with kidney failure may not be eating is due to the medications they may be taking to manage their condition. Some medications can cause side effects such as nausea or stomach upset, which can make it difficult for your dog to eat.
Additionally, dogs with kidney failure may experience changes in their sense of taste and smell, which can affect their appetite. They may find food less appealing or appetizing than they used to, leading to a decreased interest in eating.
Lastly, the stress and discomfort of having a chronic illness like kidney failure can also contribute to a dogs loss of appetite. Dogs may feel anxious or depressed, which can further decrease their desire to eat.
Tips for Encouraging Your Dog to Eat
If your dog is not eating due to kidney failure, it is important to take steps to encourage them to eat and maintain their strength and energy levels. Here are some tips to help stimulate your dogs appetite:
1. Offer a variety of foods: Try offering your dog a variety of different foods to see if they have a preference for certain flavors or textures. You can also try adding some warm water or low-sodium broth to their food to make it more appealing.
2. Feed smaller, more frequent meals: Instead of feeding your dog one large meal, consider breaking their meals up into smaller, more frequent feedings throughout the day. This can help stimulate their appetite and prevent them from feeling overwhelmed by a large amount of food.
3. Keep mealtime stress-free: Create a calm and quiet environment for your dog during mealtime to help reduce their stress and anxiety. Avoid loud noises or distractions that could disrupt their eating.
4. Consult with your veterinarian: If your dog is consistently refusing to eat, it is important to consult with your veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues or complications. They may be able to recommend appetite stimulants or other medications to help improve your dogs appetite.
5. Consider homemade or specialty diets: In some cases, dogs with kidney failure may benefit from a homemade or specialty diet that is tailored to their specific dietary needs. Your veterinarian can provide guidance on the best diet for your dogs condition.
6. Monitor your dogs weight and hydration: Keep a close eye on your dogs weight and hydration levels to ensure they are maintaining a healthy balance. Dehydration can exacerbate kidney failure and make it even more difficult for your dog to eat, so be sure to provide plenty of fresh water at all times.
7. Be patient and consistent: Encouraging a dog with kidney failure to eat can be a challenging and frustrating process, but it is important to remain patient and consistent in your efforts. Keep trying different strategies and techniques until you find what works best for your furry friend.
Trends Related to Dogs With Kidney Failure Not Eating
1. Increase in kidney failure cases: There has been a noticeable increase in the number of dogs being diagnosed with kidney failure in recent years, which has raised concerns among veterinarians and pet owners alike.
2. Growing demand for specialty diets: As more dogs are diagnosed with kidney failure, there has been a growing demand for specialty diets and nutritional supplements that are tailored to meet the specific dietary needs of dogs with this condition.
3. Rise in popularity of holistic treatments: Pet owners are increasingly turning to holistic and alternative treatments to help manage their dogs kidney failure, including acupuncture, herbal remedies, and massage therapy.
4. Focus on early detection and prevention: Veterinarians are placing a greater emphasis on early detection and prevention of kidney failure in dogs, through regular screenings, blood tests, and monitoring of kidney function.
5. Importance of hydration: Proper hydration is crucial for dogs with kidney failure, as dehydration can worsen the condition and lead to further complications. Pet owners are being encouraged to provide plenty of fresh water for their furry friends at all times.
6. Emotional support for pet owners: Dealing with a dog with kidney failure can be emotionally challenging for pet owners, who may feel overwhelmed and stressed. There is a growing focus on providing emotional support and resources for pet owners to help them cope with the demands of caring for a sick pet.
7. Advances in medical treatment: There have been significant advances in medical treatment options for dogs with kidney failure, including new medications, surgical procedures, and dialysis techniques that can help manage the condition and improve quality of life.
Common Concerns and Answers for Dog Owners
1. Concern: My dog is not eating, should I be worried?
Answer: It is important to monitor your dogs eating habits closely and consult with your veterinarian if they are consistently refusing to eat. Loss of appetite can be a sign of an underlying health issue that needs to be addressed.
2. Concern: Will my dogs kidney failure improve with treatment?
Answer: While kidney failure is not curable, it can be managed through a combination of medications, dietary changes, and supportive care. With proper treatment, many dogs with kidney failure can live a comfortable and fulfilling life.
3. Concern: Can I give my dog human food to entice them to eat?
Answer: It is not recommended to feed your dog human food, as it can be harmful and may not provide the necessary nutrients they need. Stick to a balanced and nutritious diet recommended by your veterinarian.
4. Concern: How can I tell if my dog is dehydrated?
Answer: Signs of dehydration in dogs include dry gums, sunken eyes, lethargy, and excessive panting. If you suspect your dog is dehydrated, be sure to provide them with plenty of fresh water and consult with your veterinarian.
5. Concern: My dog is on medication for kidney failure, could this be affecting their appetite?
Answer: Some medications used to treat kidney failure can cause side effects such as nausea or stomach upset, which can impact your dogs appetite. Consult with your veterinarian if you have concerns about your dogs medication.
6. Concern: Should I force-feed my dog if they are not eating?
Answer: It is not recommended to force-feed your dog, as this can cause stress and further decrease their appetite. Instead, focus on offering a variety of foods and creating a calm and inviting mealtime environment.
7. Concern: Will my dogs quality of life be affected by kidney failure?
Answer: While kidney failure can be a serious and potentially life-threatening condition, many dogs with this condition can still enjoy a good quality of life with proper treatment and care. Be sure to work closely with your veterinarian to develop a comprehensive care plan for your furry friend.
8. Concern: How can I help my dog feel more comfortable and relaxed?
Answer: Providing a comfortable and safe environment for your dog, along with plenty of love and attention, can help them feel more relaxed and at ease. Consider creating a cozy spot for them to rest and relax, away from noisy or high-traffic areas.
9. Concern: Is there anything I can do to stimulate my dogs appetite?
Answer: Try offering your dog a variety of different foods, feeding smaller, more frequent meals, and creating a stress-free mealtime environment to help stimulate their appetite. Consult with your veterinarian for additional tips and recommendations.
10. Concern: What are the long-term effects of kidney failure in dogs?
Answer: The long-term effects of kidney failure can vary depending on the severity of the condition and how well it is managed. With proper treatment and care, many dogs with kidney failure can live for several months to years after diagnosis.
11. Concern: Should I be monitoring my dogs weight and hydration levels?
Answer: Yes, it is important to monitor your dogs weight and hydration levels closely, as these can impact their overall health and well-being. Be sure to provide plenty of fresh water and consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns.
12. Concern: Can stress and anxiety affect my dogs appetite?
Answer: Yes, stress and anxiety can have a significant impact on your dogs appetite and overall health. Creating a calm and comforting environment for your furry friend can help reduce their stress levels and encourage them to eat.
13. Concern: Is it normal for my dog to have changes in their sense of taste and smell?
Answer: Yes, dogs with kidney failure may experience changes in their sense of taste and smell, which can affect their appetite and interest in food. Be patient and try offering different foods to see what your dog prefers.
14. Concern: Will my dogs appetite improve over time?
Answer: With proper treatment and care, many dogs with kidney failure can experience improvements in their appetite and overall well-being. Be patient and work closely with your veterinarian to develop a plan that works best for your furry friend.
15. Concern: How can I ensure my dog is getting the nutrients they need?
Answer: It is important to provide your dog with a balanced and nutritious diet that meets their specific dietary needs. Consult with your veterinarian for recommendations on the best food options for your dog with kidney failure.
In conclusion, dealing with a dog with kidney failure not eating can be challenging and stressful for pet owners. It is important to monitor your dogs eating habits closely, consult with your veterinarian for guidance, and provide a supportive and loving environment to help your furry friend through this difficult time. By following the tips and advice provided in this article, you can help encourage your dog to eat and maintain their health and well-being despite their condition. Remember, patience and consistency are key when it comes to caring for a dog with kidney failure.[ad_2]
