One of the diseases that can most complicate and endanger the lives of our cats is chronic renal insufficiencyThis disease develops progressively, compromising the kidneys' ability to eliminate toxins from the body. This leads to a buildup of toxins that affect the cat's overall well-being.
If your cat suffers from chronic kidney failure, it is essential to provide certain special cares, especially when it comes to their diet. In addition to ensuring that they receive essential nutrients, it is also important to avoid excess elements such as proteins, phosphorus and sodium, which can worsen kidney function. Below we provide a detailed guide on how to feed a cat with chronic kidney failure.
Dietary adjustments for cats with chronic renal failure
Diet adjustment is key to preventing the progression of kidney failure, but this must be accompanied by appropriate medical treatment prescribed by a veterinarian. Here are the most important nutritional recommendations:
- Protein reduction: Although it is necessary to reduce the amount of protein your cat consumes, it is crucial that the protein you give him is of high quality. Low-quality protein can lead to muscle loss, as well as skin and coat problems. Reducing protein intake helps control the symptoms of the disease, but it is not a cure.
- Phosphorus and its role in kidney failure: Phosphorus reduction is essential for treating kidney failure in cats. Reducing phosphorus can help slow the progression of the disease by reducing kidney inflammation. For this purpose, the use of foods containing low-phosphorus proteins is recommended.
- Fish oil and Omega 3: Including fish oil in your cat's diet with kidney failure can be beneficial. This food is rich in Omega 3, a compound that helps protect the kidneys and improves the palatability of food, which is crucial if your cat experiences a loss of appetite.
What foods should you avoid?
If your cat suffers from kidney failure, there are certain foods you should avoid. These foods can aggravate the condition of the kidneys and should be left out of their diet completely. Here are some of them:
- Sodium-rich foods: Excess sodium can worsen hypertension, a condition that often accompanies kidney failure. Make sure your cat's food is low in sodium.
- Foods rich in phosphorus: As we mentioned before, phosphorus damages the kidneys. Avoid foods with high levels of this mineral, such as certain types of fish and meat.
- High fat food: Although cats require fats in their diet, these should be of high quality and in moderate amounts. Excessive fats do not provide any benefit and can put an additional burden on the kidneys.
Wet or dry food?
One of the first debates that will arise when adjusting your cat's diet is whether to opt for wet or dry foodThe answer will depend on your feline's specific needs and what your veterinarian recommends.
For cats with kidney failure, wet food is generally preferred. It contains more water, which is essential for cats that have lost the ability to concentrate urine. In addition, wet food tends to be more palatable due to its texture, which helps cats that have lost their appetite.
However, some cats prefer dry food. If this is the case for your pet, look for dry foods specifically formulated for kidney problems. These contain less protein and phosphorus, which helps prevent the progression of the disease. It is ideal to supplement dry food with water or unsalted broth to add hydration.
Homemade food: A viable option
If you prefer to prepare your cat's food at home, you can do so as long as you make sure the diet is well-balanced. Homemade food can be a healthy alternative, but it should be done under the supervision of a veterinarian.
Here are two simple recipes that can satisfy the nutritional needs of a cat with kidney failure:
- Chicken and rice recipe: Cook 100g of boneless, skinless chicken with 50g of rice. Make sure both are cooked thoroughly and mix them together. You can add a little fish oil to enhance the flavour, but avoid spices and salt.
- Tuna and rice recipe: Choose canned tuna in water, never in oil. Cook 50 g of rice and mix it with about 50 g of tuna. It is a simple but effective recipe for cats with kidney failure.
Commercial products for kidney failure
There are numerous commercial options for cats with kidney problems. Among the most recommended are products from Hill's Prescription Diet y Royal Canin Veterinary Diet, which have specific formulations for kidney failure. Both offer wet and dry versions, so you can choose the one that best suits your pet's needs.
These formulas are low in protein and phosphorus, and have a good balance of fatty acids such as Omega 3 to protect the kidneys. It is important to consult with your veterinarian before switching to these diets, as they will help you choose the best option for your cat's condition.
- Hill's Prescription Diet Feline k/d Chicken: A food low in phosphorus and high quality protein.
- Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Renal: Specifically formulated to improve the quality of life of cats with kidney failure, helping to reduce the progression of the disease.
Importance of hydration
One of the biggest risks for cats with kidney failure is dehydrationFailing kidneys lose the ability to concentrate urine, leading to increased fluid loss. Keeping your cat hydrated is crucial to slowing the progression of the disease.
Make sure your cat always has access to fresh, clean water. Also, consider installing water fountains in your home. Moving water is appealing to many cats and encourages them to drink more. If your cat has trouble staying hydrated, talk to your veterinarian about introducing subcutaneous fluids into their treatment.
Ultimately, a balanced diet and special care can greatly improve the quality of life for your cat with kidney failure. Always maintain open communication with your veterinarian to ensure you are providing the best for your pet. Working together will help manage symptoms and provide your cat with the longest, healthiest life possible.