diet for old dogs with kidney failure

Kidney Failure In Old Dogs

[ad_1]As our furry companions age, its important to be aware of the potential health issues they may face, including kidney failure. Kidney failure in old dogs can be a serious and potentially life-threatening condition, but with proper care and management, many dogs can still enjoy a good quality of life. In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, treatment options, and prevention strategies for kidney failure in old dogs. We will also discuss interesting trends related to this topic, as well as common concerns and answers that pet owners may have.

Kidney failure, also known as renal failure, occurs when the kidneys are no longer able to function properly and filter waste products from the blood. This can lead to a buildup of toxins in the body, which can cause a range of symptoms and complications. There are two main types of kidney failure in dogs: acute kidney failure, which develops suddenly and is often caused by toxins or infections, and chronic kidney failure, which develops slowly over time and is commonly seen in older dogs.

One interesting trend related to kidney failure in old dogs is the increasing prevalence of the condition in senior canine patients. As dogs are living longer thanks to advances in veterinary care, they are more likely to develop age-related health issues such as kidney failure. This trend highlights the importance of regular veterinary check-ups for senior dogs, as early detection and intervention can help improve outcomes for dogs with kidney failure.

Another trend in the field of kidney failure in old dogs is the growing popularity of alternative and complementary therapies for managing the condition. While traditional treatments such as fluid therapy and dietary management are still commonly used, many pet owners are exploring options such as acupuncture, herbal supplements, and massage therapy to support their dogs kidney health. While more research is needed to determine the effectiveness of these therapies, they may offer additional benefits for some dogs with kidney failure.

Many pet owners are seeking out alternative therapies to complement traditional treatments for kidney failure in old dogs, says a holistic veterinarian. While these therapies may not be a substitute for medical intervention, they can help support the overall health and well-being of dogs with kidney failure.

One concerning trend in the field of kidney failure in old dogs is the increasing prevalence of risk factors such as obesity and poor diet. Factors such as obesity, high blood pressure, and a diet high in protein and phosphorus can all contribute to the development of kidney failure in dogs. As pet obesity rates continue to rise, it is important for pet owners to be aware of the impact that lifestyle factors can have on their dogs kidney health.

Obesity is a major risk factor for kidney failure in dogs, as it can put added strain on the kidneys and increase the risk of developing complications, says a veterinary nutritionist. Maintaining a healthy weight through proper diet and exercise is crucial for preventing kidney failure in old dogs.

Another concerning trend in the field of kidney failure in old dogs is the lack of awareness among pet owners about the signs and symptoms of the condition. Many dogs with kidney failure may not show obvious symptoms in the early stages of the disease, which can make it challenging for pet owners to recognize when their dog is in need of medical attention. Common symptoms of kidney failure in dogs include increased thirst and urination, weight loss, lethargy, and poor appetite.

Early detection is key when it comes to managing kidney failure in old dogs, says a veterinary internal medicine specialist. Pet owners should be vigilant for signs of kidney disease, such as changes in drinking and urination habits, and seek veterinary care promptly if they notice any concerning symptoms.

One positive trend in the management of kidney failure in old dogs is the development of specialized diets and supplements designed to support kidney function. These diets are low in protein, phosphorus, and sodium, which can help reduce the workload on the kidneys and slow the progression of the disease. Supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants may also be beneficial for dogs with kidney failure, as they can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.

Specialized diets and supplements can play a crucial role in managing kidney failure in old dogs, says a veterinary nutritionist. These nutritional interventions can help support kidney function and improve the overall quality of life for dogs with kidney disease.

Despite the challenges of managing kidney failure in old dogs, there are many common concerns and questions that pet owners may have about the condition. Here are 15 common concerns and answers related to kidney failure in old dogs:

1. What are the causes of kidney failure in old dogs?

Kidney failure in old dogs can be caused by a variety of factors, including age-related changes, infections, toxins, and underlying health conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes.

2. What are the symptoms of kidney failure in old dogs?

Common symptoms of kidney failure in dogs include increased thirst and urination, weight loss, lethargy, poor appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea.

3. How is kidney failure diagnosed in old dogs?

Kidney failure in dogs is typically diagnosed through a combination of physical exams, blood tests, urine tests, and imaging studies such as x-rays and ultrasounds.

4. What are the treatment options for kidney failure in old dogs?

Treatment for kidney failure in old dogs may include fluid therapy, dietary management, medications to control symptoms, and supportive care to help maintain kidney function.

5. Can kidney failure in old dogs be prevented?

While some risk factors for kidney failure, such as age and breed, cannot be changed, pet owners can help reduce the risk of kidney disease by maintaining a healthy weight, feeding a balanced diet, and providing regular veterinary care.

6. How can I support my dogs kidney health?

To support your dogs kidney health, it is important to provide a balanced diet, plenty of fresh water, regular exercise, and routine veterinary check-ups to monitor kidney function.

7. Can alternative therapies help manage kidney failure in old dogs?

While alternative therapies such as acupuncture and herbal supplements may offer additional benefits for dogs with kidney failure, they should be used in conjunction with traditional treatments under the guidance of a veterinary professional.

8. How long can a dog live with kidney failure?

The prognosis for dogs with kidney failure depends on the underlying cause, the stage of the disease, and the management plan. With proper care and treatment, many dogs with kidney failure can still enjoy a good quality of life for months to years.

9. Are there any breed-specific risks for kidney failure in dogs?

Some breeds, such as Cocker Spaniels, Doberman Pinschers, and Shih Tzus, may be more prone to developing kidney disease. Pet owners of these breeds should be especially vigilant for signs of kidney failure as their dogs age.

10. What role does genetics play in kidney failure in dogs?

Genetics can play a role in the development of kidney failure in dogs, as some breeds may have a higher risk of inheriting genetic mutations that predispose them to kidney disease. Pet owners should be aware of their dogs breed and family history when monitoring for signs of kidney failure.

11. Can kidney failure in old dogs be reversed?

While kidney failure is a progressive and irreversible condition, early detection and intervention can help slow the progression of the disease and improve outcomes for dogs with kidney failure.

12. How can I help my dog manage symptoms of kidney failure?

To help manage symptoms of kidney failure in dogs, pet owners can work closely with their veterinarian to develop a treatment plan that includes medications, dietary changes, and supportive care to help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.

13. Are there any complications associated with kidney failure in dogs?

Complications of kidney failure in dogs can include electrolyte imbalances, high blood pressure, anemia, and fluid retention. Regular veterinary monitoring and management can help prevent and address these complications.

14. Can kidney failure in dogs be fatal?

Untreated kidney failure in dogs can be fatal, as the buildup of toxins in the body can lead to severe complications such as uremic poisoning and organ failure. Early detection and intervention are crucial for improving the prognosis for dogs with kidney failure.

15. How can I provide the best care for my dog with kidney failure?

To provide the best care for a dog with kidney failure, pet owners should work closely with their veterinarian to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses their dogs individual needs and helps maintain their quality of life for as long as possible.

In summary, kidney failure in old dogs is a complex and challenging condition that requires careful management and ongoing support to help dogs maintain a good quality of life. By staying informed about the causes, symptoms, treatment options, and prevention strategies for kidney failure, pet owners can help ensure that their senior canine companions receive the best possible care. With early detection, appropriate interventions, and a holistic approach to treatment, many dogs with kidney failure can continue to enjoy happy and healthy lives for years to come.[ad_2]

Dietary Guidelines for Dogs with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

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How to Feed Dogs With Kidney Disease

How to feed dogs with kidney disease? What should they avoid?

One of the more common serious health problems for dogs is kidney disease, which affects more pets than people realize.

According to WebMD, dogs may experience either acute or chronic kidney issues.

While chronic kidney failure develops slowly over time, acute kidney failure occurs suddenly over a few days.

The most frequent cause of acute renal issues in dogs is toxin ingestion.

It might be a chemical, such as antifreeze, cleaning supplies, or contaminated food.

Older dogs are more likely to develop chronic renal disease, and because it usually manifests slowly, it can be challenging to identify the specific cause.

A proper dog kidney disease diet will be one of the crucial treatments to get your pooch on the path toward recovery.

What is Kidney Disease?

Kidneys are organs with the basic function of eliminating waste and toxins from the dog's body.

Any health issue that affects this process can be classified as kidney disease.

It can be referred to as kidney failure in dogs, renal failure, renal disease, chronic kidney disease (CKD), and similar.

Many things can cause kidney disease in dogs, including birth defects, poor diet, high blood pressure, bacterial infections, and diseases associated with the canine's immune system (Ettinger, Feldman; 2010).

Symptoms of kidney disease include drinking more, frequent urination, weight loss, vomiting, and decreased appetite.

If you suspect that your dog is suffering from a kidney-related problem, take him to your vet to get the right diagnosis.

This article will not explain kidney disease.

To learn more, read other vet's science-based guides on Kidney Failure in Dogs for symptoms, diagnosis, treatments (including at-home remedies), and more.

Instead, I will walk you through the most crucial part of dealing with this problem.

Proper dog kidney disease diet, what it entails, and how to feed dogs with kidney disease, including a homemade kidney diet for dogs.

How to Feed Dogs With Kidney Disease

The two are closely related (Polzin et al. 2013); therefore, a dog kidney disease diet is a big part of essential treatment that's often required for any canine with kidney problems to get better.

Remember that it's very important for you to discuss this with your vet.

Listen to the vet's advice because every pet is different, and not every homemade kidney diet for dogs will work for your pooch.

Dietary Guidelines for Dogs with Kidney Disease

There is a very specific evidence-based set of guidelines and dietary plansdeveloped by vets that need to be followed to treat dogs with kidney disease.

While you can follow the below guidelines to understand the concept of a dog kidney disease diet, make sure to go over this dietary plan with your vet.

I will also make it easy for you to understand.

We cannot advise here the exact amount of food needed for your specific dog, but your vet can help you determine the best portion sizes daily.

The vet can also help you choose the kidney-friendly dog food brand or go over this homemade kidney diet for dogs if cooking yourself to see if it's the right and safe fit for your Fido.

The current scientific and veterinary consensus on the treatment diet for dogs with kidney disease is as follows (Jacob et al. 2002):

Reduce phosphorus

Phosphorus is one of the most common minerals in the dog's body, and it's essential to many health functions.

However, it can also stress the dog's kidneys, and when dealing with chronic renal failure, the stress needs to be reduced.

Less protein

Based on the above, reducing the amount of protein intake will subsequently reduce the amount of phosphorus in the dog's body.

Less salt

Sodium (salt), similar to phosphorus, will put extra pressure on kidneys by forcing them to work more.

Therefore, including less salt in your dog's diet will relieve some of the work from his kidneys.

Include omega-3s

Studies have shown that supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids can help the function of kidneys and assist with dog kidney disease in general.

This includes feeding foods higher in omega-3 fatty acids or using fish oil dog supplements.

A regular dosage can be used as indicated on the supplement.

Calcitriol supplementation

This will likely be administered by your vet if needed.

The calcitriol is specifically used for patients with kidney problems, both humans and dogs.

Your veterinarian will recommend how to use this supplement, if at all.

Furthermore, dogs with kidney disease should stay in shape, and you must relieve stress from digesting food and processing liquids.

The best thing to do is lower the amount of food in a single portion and increase the number of meals per day (4-5 times a day).

That will make digestion easier and faster for a dog with kidney disease.

Most dog foods for kidney disease are developed with the above science-based instructions in mind.

They will be low in protein, low in phosphorus, and low in salt and include different supplements and ingredients shown to alleviate the stress on the kidneys.

However, commercial food isn't essential if you know how to make a dog kidney disease diet yourself, following the vet's guidelines (as outlined in this TVP article).

Healthy water intake should be encouraged. Thus, water needs to be accessible to your Fido at all times.

Use purified or distilled water because tap or well water can sometimes be high in added minerals that are bad for dogs with kidney disease.

You can also use bottled water, but keep in mind that it is extremely important that your dog is hydrated at all times.

Dehydration will further complicate the kidney disease problem.

Important Nutrients

Protein

Debate is still on when it comes to the amount of protein that dogs with kidney disease should have (Foley, 2008).

Today, most vets generally agree that an extremely low-protein diet is unnecessary unless your canine is uremic, but they would often recommend slightly lowering the protein intake anyway.

The safest bet is a dog kidney disease diet that has a moderate level of protein (not too high and not too low).

However, it is important that you feed high-quality protein to your dog.

Meat is always a great place to start, whether raw (safe) or cooked/prepared meat for your homemade kidney diet for dogs.

Eggs are a good source of high-quality protein, but egg yolks are also very high in phosphorus, so it is best to stick to egg whites and limit egg yolks.

Fat

The amount of fat you should feed your dog will depend on his weight and activity level.

If he is overweight or inactive, stick to moderate fat intake.

If he is in good shape and really active, you can increase his fat intake because fat is a healthy source of energy (but high in calories) and is low in phosphorus.

Keep in mind that increasing fat, especially containing sources of omega-3 fatty acids, has been shown to help with kidney disease in dogs.

Too much fat can be bad for some pets, especially for their digestive system.

An increased amount of fat may cause diarrhea or mucus in stools.

Dogs with a predisposition to pancreatitis cant handle a lot of fat in their dog kidney disease diet.

If you want to increase your dogs fat intake, you need to do it gradually and carefully, hopefully, as your vet monitors your pet's health.

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are not nutritionally necessary for dogs as they get their energy from fat and protein, but for dogs with kidney disease, you must include carbs.

Research shows that vets recommend a dog kidney disease diet with up to 50% of carbs.

They're a good source of calories for dogs with CKD because most foods are low in phosphorous.

These foods will include vegetables and fruits, as well as appropriate grains.

Phosphorus and Calcium

As discussed above, studies show how a low-phosphorus diet had positive results in slowing down the progression of kidney disease in dogs.

Foods high in phosphorous include dairy products, bones, fish with bones, egg yolks, and organ meat (among others).

When structuring a dog kidney disease diet, these foods should be highly limited or avoided completely, depending on the stage of the kidney disease.

You also need to keep track of the phosphorous in the grains and vegetables that you give your dog.

While most carb sources will generally contain low to none of it, some foods still may be a source of phosphorus minerals.

It is best to stick to 10 mg per pound of bodyweight phosphorous in your dogs daily diet.

Calcium is very important because it acts as a phosphorus binder.

Lack of calcium in the dog's diet will often lead to an excess of phosphorus minerals in the body, which then can cause problems with the kidneys.

You can simply add half a teaspoon of ground eggshell per pound of food in each meal or use calcium supplements or other calcium-heavy foods.

Dont use bones as a source of calcium because they are high in phosphorus.

SIMILAR:Guidelines and Diet for Dogs with Struvite Crystals

Structuring Dog Kidney Disease Diet

Even though dogs with kidney disease can eat almost anything in moderation (with a few adjustments discussed above), some foods are better than others for your dog (Yabuki et al. 2010).

You can use the above-mentioned guidelines to understand better how to make your own homemade kidney diet for dogs.

But here are some foods specifically that you should probably include and others to avoid altogether.

Foods to Include

There are many foods you can include in a dog kidney disease diet, but here are some ideas to get you started.

Meats

Include fatty meats like lamb, pork, or beef.

You can also include dark meat turkey or chicken since they contain more fat than white meat and dont avoid the skin as well.

Chicken has the highest amount of phosphorus of all these meats, so be careful with it.

Dairy

Dairy products can be included, but they must be given in moderation.

Use cottage cheese or ricotta cheese, and go for the low-salt option.

Yogurt is also good, especially if your dog also has digestive problems.

Yogurt has good bacteria, which can help regulate his digestion, but probiotic supplements will have a much higher concentration of bacteria.

Vegetables

Include cabbage in your dogs diet because it can be good for ulcers, which are a common occurrence in dogs with kidney disease.

Include other vegetables like asparagus, beet, broccoli, pumpkin, squash, celery, carrots, and other vegetables that contain fiber.

Fruits

Fruits like apples, mango, peach, pineapple, and pear are also good for your dog.

Cranberries are good for dogs that often develop urinary tract infections, and they can also be good for their kidneys.

Bananas are high in potassium, which is good for your dogs water balance.

Wheat/Grain

In this instance, white rice is better than brown rice because it is lower in phosphorous.

Most other grains should be avoided or extremely limited because of their phosphorus levels.

Pasta, especially if you add a bit of butter to make it tastier for your dog, is a great choice for a dog kidney disease diet-friendly meal with low-phosphorus calories.

Omega-3s

Fish oil is great for your dogs kidneys because it contains large amounts of omega-3 fatty acids.

Fish itself is also a great source of omega-3, but you should avoid fish with bones since bones are high in phosphorous.

Avoid fish liver oil as well. Coconut oil can also be good for your dog.

Treats

Dog treats are fine in moderation.

Make sure they are NOT a regular part of your dogs diet, and carefully pick those that are friendly for your structured dog kidney disease diet; choose healthy dog treats with beneficial ingredients.

Natural treats are good choices, too rice cakes, for example, are a great option you can give to your dog because they are low in phosphorous.

Other options

Adding a bit of alfalfa or kelp can also be good, but you should do it once or twice a week only because alfalfa can act as a diuretic, and kelp contains sodium.

Green tripe is an excellent addition to your dogs diet because it is really low in phosphorous, and dogs usually enjoy it.

It can even help anorexic dogs develop an appetite.

Foods to Avoid

Sodium (salt) is dangerous for dogs with kidney disease, and many vets recommend a low-sodium diet and generally carefully monitor your pet's salt intake.

However, removing salt from the dog's diet is also harmful to your Fido.

I would recommend a diet with a medium sodium intake, around 3.2 grams of sodium per 1,000 calories, which has been supported by studies mentioned in the above references.

Remember that reducing sodium should be done gradually, or it can cause dehydration or even a renal crisis.

Avoid vegetable oils because they are high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can be inflammatory and are generally not a good source of fat for dogs.

The same goes for fish liver oils, especially cod liver oil.

If your dogs diet is based on raw and meaty bones, you should consider lowering the amount of bone fed.

If your dogs kidney disease progresses, you should completely eliminate bones from his diet.

Bones are really high in phosphorous and other minerals, and that can be hard on a dog's kidneys.

ALSO READ:How to Feed Dogs With Renal Disease and Kidney Problems

Best Dog Kidney Disease Diet

When planning a diet for a dog with kidney disease, you can choose between homemade meals (see below), commercial dog foods, or a combination of both.

Discuss with your veterinarian what would be an appropriate option in your pet's case.

Some of the best dog food for kidney disease brands currently are:

Homemade Dog Kidney Disease Diet

Commercial dog food brands are an easier option, and most vets agree that it's the safest way to structure a dog's kidney disease diet because you don't need to do any guesswork.

However, if you'd rather cook for your pooch, then you can do that as well.

Whether you choose to feed your dog raw meat or cooked meat, making a homemade meal for him means that you know exactly what he eats and how much of everything he consumes.

I'll include my personal favorite dog kidney disease diet recipe below, but you can also take a look at these four recipes from Samantha (they have videos with instructions):

Ground Beef with Rice Recipe

This homemade kidney diet for dogs recipe is full of good protein sources and low in phosphorous, which makes it great for dogs with kidney disease.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds lean ground beef
• 12-15 egg whites
• 1 pound of green beans
• 2 cups of rice
• 2 of acorn squash
• 3 tablespoons coconut oil
• 1/2 cup of fresh parsley
• 1 apple
• Pinch of fresh ground pepper

Preparation

The first thing to do is to cook rice. Put it in boiling water and let it simmer for 15 minutes.

While the rice cooks, you can wash and chop the parsley.

When the rice is done, just add parsley to it and mix.

Cut the squash in half and get rid of the seeds.

Then, cut it into strips and peel the skin off.

Cut the squash into small cubes and put it in a pot with water. A medium pot filled to half is best.

Let the water boil, and then let the squash simmer for 20 minutes. Steam the green beans.

Fry the ground beef in a frying pan for 10 minutes and season it with ground pepper.

Let the meat cool off, and dont drain the fat.

When all ingredients cool off and become warm, put the squash, meat, and green beans in a blender or food processor and puree the mixture until it becomes smooth. Add the puree to the rice mixture. In the same pan where you fried the beef, melt the coconut oil, and then add the egg whites and scramble them for around 4 minutes.

Add the egg whites to the other ingredients and stir them in.

Let it cool off a bit, and serve it to your pooch.

Dog Kidney Disease Diet: Key Takeaways

• You can prepare a diet for a dog with kidney illness that combinescommercial dog food and homemade meals.
• If the main component of your dog's diet is raw, meaty bones, you might want to reduce the quantity you feed him.
• For your homemade kidney diet for dogs, meatwhether raw (safe) or cooked/preparedis always a fantastic place to start.

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