Understanding Diets For Kidney Problems In Dogs
Although kidney disease can be a scary diagnosis, it is possible for a dog with this condition to live comfortably for years. Of course, this depends on whether kidney disease is detected early and whether diets for kidney problems are applied correctly in sick dogs.
In the following lines, we will talk about what elements of the diets usually consumed by domestic dogs are the most important to cope with these conditions. Do not miss it.
Understanding kidney disease
Kidney disease and general kidney failure are becoming a common condition in dogs. One of the first signs of the presence of any of these pathologies is that your dog drinks and urinates more than before and, therefore, asks to be taken outside several times a day.
This is because dogs with kidney disease cannot concentrate their urine, which results in a large volume of fluid produced – and urinated – and subsequent thirst and dehydration.
As kidney function declines, the dog retains ammonia, nitrogen, and other chemical wastes in its blood. This is called uremia. The degree of uremia is determined by measuring blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, and electrolytes.
How are the kidneys affected?
The kidneys are vital organs, as they have the main task of removing waste from the blood, balancing body fluids, and producing urine. In this way, the kidneys act by filtering the body’s blood, regulating blood pressure and maintaining the concentration of red blood cells circulating in the blood.
Kidney disease occurs when the kidneys are damaged and cannot filter the blood properly. Over time, the damage accumulates and causes waste to be stored in the body. As kidney disease worsens, toxin levels rise in the blood and the animal feels sick.
Kidney problems can also lead to high blood pressure, low iron in the blood (anemia), weakening of the bones, nerve damage, and nutritional malabsorption.
The value of diets for kidney problems in dogs
Most of the medications used to treat pets with kidney disease only claim to reduce symptoms. On the other hand, the implementation of the correct diet can have dramatic effects on the survival of the patient, hence its importance.
The nutritional changes that must be made depend on the severity of the pathology. Generally speaking, pets with kidney disease should be on diets reduced in phosphorus, protein, and sodium. Equally important is supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids, which come from fish oil.
Water, more vital than ever
If your canid has kidney disease, you want to make sure it has easy access to water. The proper level of hydration prevents the concentration of toxic compounds in the bloodstream.
As kidney disease progresses, your dog may not be able to drink enough water on his own. At this point, you may need to administer fluid intravenously, always at a veterinary clinic.
At home, encourage your dog to drink. Kidney disease can make a dog so sick that it doesn’t want to drink. To cheer him up, give him some flavored, low-sodium broth. Many experts recommend, if possible, that you make sure your pet’s water is fresh and free of contaminants. Therefore, filtered water is the best.
Components of diets for kidney problems in dogs
In the early stages of kidney disease, the goal is to prevent further damage and to compensate for increased urination. For most dogs, the idea is to feed them roughly 2-3% of their body weight.
If you decide to cook at home for your pet, remember that a high humidity level is critical in a kidney diet. Consult your veterinarian to adjust the amounts depending on the weight and size of your dog. As canine disease progresses – measured by the increased level of protein in the urine – meat intake should be reduced.
What to look for in the commercial offer of diets for kidney problems in dogs?
Quality commercial food should consist of animal protein, whole fruits and vegetables, little processing, and a moisture content between 80-85%. Proteins should be of the easily digestible type. In addition, it is necessary that everything I think complies with the following premises:
- Low Phosphorus Level : In order to keep the phosphorus level in the pet’s blood low, which is believed to slow the progression of kidney disease and improve survival.
- Low in salt: Foods high in sodium can raise blood pressure and worsen kidney damage, which is why diets designed for pets with kidney disease are low in this compound. Low sodium treats include fruits and vegetables, but be sure to avoid grapes, raisins, onions, and garlic.
- Low protein level : Protein is a large and complex molecule that can be difficult to digest. Protein is broken down into amino acids, which are essential for your dog. Chicken, turkey, or egg whites are recommended.
On the other hand, nitrogenous waste also comes from protein metabolism and its excess is unwanted in canines with kidney disease. The key is to reduce — but not eliminate — the protein your dog is getting.
In addition to feeding him a low-protein diet, you should also avoid giving your dog high-protein treats. The treats that you should avoid are the following: meat, snacks, cheese, rawhide, pig ears, etc.
What supplements are recommended in diets for kidney problems in dogs?
Here is a list of recommended dietary supplements for these dogs:
- Omega-3 fatty acids : There is some evidence that these fatty acids contained in fish oil may be beneficial for dogs with kidney disease. Ask your vet about whether fish oil is right for your pet, and if so, about the optimal dosage and a brand that has high-quality control.
- Potassium citrate: potassium citrate induces an increase in the concentration of bicarbonate in the blood. In kidney disease, the level of bicarbonate in the blood decreases and makes the pH of the blood more acidic.
- Vitamins : due to kidney malfunction, vitamins contained in food are not reabsorbed in the kidney. Taking vitamin supplements will help offset losses.
Finally, whether it is a commercial or homemade diet , you should choose foods that are not exposed to preservatives, pesticides, fertilizers, genetically modified organisms or ionizing radiation. If you give your pet meat, it should come from animals that do not receive antibiotics or growth hormones.
This distinction is important in diets for kidney problems in dogs, because it means that the food does not contain toxins. This will mean that the dog’s daily feeding will put less pressure on the current function of the damaged organs.
There is still much to learn about the nutritional needs of dogs with kidney problems. The challenge is to maintain an adequate intake, since dogs with kidney disease tend not to have a great appetite. Therefore, it is advisable to monitor weight loss, vary the flavors and feed the dog several times a day.
