Diet for cat w kidney failure
Different protein sources have different types of amino acids, and if the composition of amino acids in the food do not match the needs of the body, the unused ones must be broken down, thus creating toxins. During this process, toxic by-products are produced that normally leave the body via the urinary system. For these reasons it is important for owners to understand how kidney foods work to support their beloved cat. Fresh or frozen unprocessed food, or as a second choice canned food, should be the diet of choice. The amount of dietary proteins which is used to satisfy basic body protein needs does not create these toxins, but dietary protein in excess of these needs do. As problems progress, the kidneys cannot handle the breakdown products of excess protein, leading to the buildup of toxins in the blood (azotemia). This means avoiding dry food (the reason here being that cats on dry food tend to be chronically dehydrated, but there is another important reason regarding protein sources which we will discuss in just a bit). The predominant effect of the low protein diet is to minimize production of uraemic toxins so that the cat feels better. There are two primary mechanisms by which these foods work. Therefore there is less protein to cause the toxic waste effect in the blood, but the protein that is within the diet is able to be used to greater effect by the cat. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning that their natural diet would consist almost entirely of protein and fat. Therefore, reduced phosphate content will help to protect the kidneys from further damage, thereby slowing the progression of kidney disease. Problems occur as the kidneys can no longer reabsorb water, leading to excessive urination and chronic dehydration. In my opinion, the most basic first step in mild to moderate cases is to increase water consumption. This is reflected in an increased BUN and creatinine on blood work. Low quantity, high quality protein content Dietary protein is broken down in the gut to make the building blocks that make up the body and help it to function.
In cats restricted phosphate content helps to reduce the incidence of a secondary syndrome called Renal Secondary Hyperparathyroidism. Restricted phosphate content High phosphorus accelerates renal failure, and restricted phosphorus slows it down. The goals of therapy for renal failure are to increase hydration, decrease the buildup of toxins in the blood, treat any possible underlying reversible disease (infection, hyperthyroidism), maintain good blood flow to the kidneys, and minimize any further damage. Guest post by Darren Hawks, DVM Renal insufficiency, or kidney failure, is very common as our cats age. In some cases the other condition also requires a special diet, and should take precedence over dietary modification specific to the kidney problem. Secondly, the source of protein in the diet is crucial. The advent of these foods in recent years has had a significant and positive impact on the lives of vast numbers of cats suffering from renal disease, and vets almost universally advise their use as an essential part of the treatment regime. Protein therefore tastes good to cats and stimulates their appetites - this is one of the reasons cats with kidney disease must continue to have some protein in their diet. Home About Books Consultations Reiki Reading List Awards Events Contact Shop. Many cats with mild to moderate disease will improve with this step alone. More advanced signs are weight loss, poor appetite, vomiting, and dull coat. Special kidney foods contain less protein than regular foods, however, although present in lesser amounts, the protein that is used in them is of a higher quality than that in a normal diet. Most vets will also have some preference for a specific brand or brands. Blood toxicity (uremia) from kidney failure occurs because toxins are created when excess protein is broken down. Early signs are subtle, seen only as increased drinking and urination.
