non prescription kidney diet dog food

Best Non-prescription Dog Food For Kidney Disease

Tips On Switching Your Dog To A Renal

BLUE Natural Veterinary Diet KS Kidney Support Dog Food | Chewy

If kidney disease is discovered at an early stage, it may not be necessary to place your dog on a restricted diet. However, certain considerations need to be taken into account. For starters, switch to formulas made with limited ingredients.

Consult your vet to find out if it is the right time to change to a specified renal diet. Make sure the transition is very slow, as most options with restricted protein levels may not be as tasty for your pup. Rotating the formula and gradually adding the new food to his meals will encourage him to eat.

In case you are having a hard time with your pooch, consider seasoning the food with natural additives or delicious wet food options to make it more enticing. Just make sure you do not counter the benefits of special renal diets by adding foods high in sodium or other harmful ingredients.

What Are The Symptoms Of Kidney Disease

A: Some symptoms of kidney disease may include lethargy, a need to drink often and frequently urinate, and decreased interest in food. If your dog has not been diagnosed with kidney disease but is experiencing these symptoms, it would be a good idea to take them to the vet to be assessed for kidney disease.

What Human Food Can I Feed My Dog With Kidney Disease

When choosing human food to feed your dog with kidney disease, remember to avoid sodium and phosphorus and stick to lower quantities of protein. Good options include green beans, baby carrots, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, bananas, apples, broccoli, blueberries, watermelon, and air-popped popcorn. When in doubt about whether your dog with renal disease can eat a type of human food, check its phosphorus and sodium content to ensure they are low. Feel free to give your dog high-fat, low-phosphorus foods in moderation, such as butter and whole milk yogurt.

You May Like: How To Transition Dog Food Brands

Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet

Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet is a specially formulated dog food that improves kidney function and overall health. The low phosphorus levels in this meal control can help to reduce the work your pups kidneys have to do, which means they will be less tired after eating it! It also offers omega-3 fatty acids as well as antioxidants for the betterment of animal general wellbeing all without having an adverse effect on their urinary system like you might expect with some other products out there today.

This brand is also grain-free. One of the reasons why a dogs diet can be beneficial to them is because they could limit allergic reactions and inflammation from those kinds, soy being an irritant for many dogs included in this case too!

Pros

What Are The Risks For Senior Dogs

Risks of renal failure increase the older your pooch gets. Generally, it affects anywhere from 0.3 and 4% dogs. Lifestyle can also be a contributing factor, as most chronic kidney failures are caused by bacteria in their mouth entering the bloodstream.

Kidneys also filter artificial ingredients and chemicals from, normally found in dog food, from canine bloodstream, and extended exposure to such elements can and will cause damage. So, a balanced lifestyle and food devoid of harmful ingredients can reduce the risks of renal failure.

Dont Miss: What Are The Best Ingredients For Homemade Dog Food

At The End Of 2019 During Our Yearly Vet Check We Received The Horrible News That Our Dog Was In Stage 4 Kidney Failure

Honestly, I was in total shock, how did we miss this?! He is with me all day, every day!! He just seemed like he was dealing with some symptoms of old age frequent urination, sometimes excessive water drinking, and I would notice occasionally that he would have a mild case of diarrhea. It definitely didnt feel like life threatening symptoms to us! As much as the diagnosis was a shock, the price tag of the prescription diet that we were told he would need to eat for the remainder of his life was pretty horrifying too! When I asked our vet how long we had left with him the prognosis wasnt good, 3-6 months maybe 9 if we were lucky. We had to wait 6 weeks for a follow up blood panel to really know what kind of timeline we were looking at.

Our Backstory: Common Food Allergies For Dogs

After Rascal turned a year old or so, he started developing really strange eating habits. He wasnt finishing his food, had loud intense stomachaches and frequently threw up. We went through a number of blood tests. He had been diagnosed with things like pancreatitis, anxiety and one vet even thought he had parvo. We were stressed and at a loss at how to move forward. That is until we did an allergy test.

We uncovered that Rascal was allergic to a dozen different food items, one being beef, the main ingredient in his traditional dry dog food. Our vet introduced us to an all-natural human-grade dog food company called Just Food for Dogs. The company sells premade food and teaches people how to make a homemade dog food recipe at home. Once we started this all-natural diet, the stomach aches subsided and he was the happiest we had ever seen him.

Recommended Reading: When Was Dog Food Invented

How To Choose The Best Meal With Low Protein And Phosphorus

Canned pet food has been known to have the varying nutrient level and the best diet is highly dependent on the pet.

The pet here refers to everything about the pet from the breed to the size and age.

Phosphorus content plays a very large role in pet food.

Phosphorus is responsible for growth generally in the bones and tissue of animals.

The kidney controls phosphorus level in the blood but due to some factors, the kidney can be damaged.

That means the control of the phosphorus level must be controlled through careful measurement of phosphorus level in the canines diet.

The pets health is very important with regard to the quantity of phosphorus it will be consuming.

Finding the right pet meal mix is very important especially for those with kidney problems.

One of the best ways to slow down kidney problems is by reducing the amount of phosphorus in older pet food.

Being proactive is very important and one must avoid waiting till the pet comes down with renal failure before acting.

This is why it is advisable to be the best friend for him too by taking steps in the interest of the canines wellbeing.

What Is Kidney Disease In Dogs

Prescription Diets for Kidney Disease in Dogs & Cats

Your dogs kidneys operate as a filtration system and help keep his body in balance. This includes executing a whole range of tasks, but some of the most important include:

• Filtering Waste from the Bloodstream The kidneys work to remove waste from the bloodstream, and then dispose of these wastes via your dogs urine.
• Maintaining Water and Mineral Concentration Levels Kidneys help maintain a balance of salt and water in the body. For example, if your dogs body fluids are currently too diluted, the kidneys may signal the body to excrete more urine.
• Controlling Blood Pressure Kidneys partially maintain blood pressure by aiding in calcium metabolism, maintaining appropriate phosphorus levels, and adjusting the amount of water in the body.
• Manufacturing Some Hormones The kidneys produce hormones that encourage red-blood-cell production which helps carry oxygen throughout the body.

Kidney disease occurs in two different ways: acute kidney disease and chronic kidney disease.

Acute kidney failure usually occurs as a result of ingesting toxins like antifreeze or medications. This can cause an abrupt decline in kidney function.

Chronic kidney disease, on the other hand, develops slowly and presents itself more over time. It can be caused by a variety of genetic and environmental factors .

Read Also: What To Mix With Dog Food

Dr Harveys Canine Health

This pre-mix from Dr. Harveys is a great option if you want more control of what your dog eats. It contains a collection of healthy grains, dehydrated vegetables, and plenty of herbs to provide your pup with a balanced diet.

To prepare your dogs meal, all you have to do is add meat and water. You can choose what type of protein source your dog eats. This gives you the opportunity to introduce low-phosphorus ingredients into your pups diet.

The pre-mix only has 0.35 percent phosphorus in it, so theres plenty of wiggle room to keep meals healthy. Beets are used for digestion while calcium is added to act as a phosphorus binder.

The Limited Ingredients Diet from Natural Balance provides your dog with the essentials and nothing more.

Its free of unnecessary ingredients. This puts less stress on the kidneys without depriving your dog of the protein, vitamins, and nutrients they need to thrive. Overall, the formula is made up of about 20 percent protein.

Phosphorus levels are significantly lower than traditional kibble options at 0.6 percent. This is due to the use of venison, which has about the same amount of phosphorus as ground bison and chicken.

The formula also has pea protein and potato protein to give your dog plenty of amino acids without having to worry about too much phosphorus.

Should I Choose Prescription Or Non

Both options have their advantages and disadvantages. Veterinarians often recommend prescription dog foods for kidney problems.

These products have been specifically developed to treat these diseases. This can be reassuring for you as you dont have to worry about the right phosphorus level.

However, these recipes often have deficient protein and sodium levels. This can be a problem in the long run. Also, these products are more expensive.

Please dont misunderstand what Im saying. I dont want to talk you out of prescription dog food. Of course, if your veterinarian has recommended such a product, be sure to listen to it.

However, if you have the opportunity to get the most out of your dog with over-the-counter food, it will be much more beneficial to both of you in the long run.

The point is to consult your veterinarian about all the options available.

Recommended Reading: Is Iams Dog Food Good For Dogs

Recipe Variations: What Natural Foods Can I Feed My Dog

Home-cooked dog food diets can be one of the best ways to keep your best friend happy and healthy. As always, check with your vet before testing a new dog diet, but here are some of my best recommendations:

• Protein: Rascal digests ground turkey really well but you can try ground beef, pork, chicken, lamb, and Rascals personal favorite: venison. If you dont have a meat grinder, you can ask your butcher to grind it for you or cut it up super fine before cooking.
• Vegetables: Spinach, butternut squash, cranberries, cauliflower, apples, green beans. Here is an entire list of AKC approved fruits and vegetables you can give your dog.
• Grains & Carbs: Rice, quinoa, barley, whole grain pasta, and potatoes can be great options. If you can believe it, Rascal is actually allergic to rice. I wish I were kidding.

What Should A Kidney Dog Food Diet Entail

You may be wondering what you should feed your dog specifically and whether you should make your dogs food or look for a commercially made brand. There is certainly more control when you make your dogs food in your kitchen since you know exactly what your dog is eating . However, there are some commercial diets that could work as well. Whether you plan to feed your dog a homemade diet or use commercial food, its imperative that the food meets their dietary needs. For dogs with renal health issues, feed them a diet of high-quality protein with low phosphorus and sodium, and added omega-3 fatty acids, such as a mix of good quality meat, veggies like bell peppers, and either a supplement of omega-3s or fish, flax, sardines, or anchovies. You want a good variety of protein, ideally raw. Avoid kibble, also known as dry food because it can cause dehydration. Making your own dog food can be time and labor intensive, but if you do make it follow a formula so that you do not overlook any crucial ingredients. To provide a complete and balanced diet, in addition to the primary food components, there are additional nutrients that need to be added. And providing those nutrients in the right quantities and an effective manner can be difficult to do at home.

• 12-15% meaty bone
• 30-50% muscle meat
• 5% fish

Additionally, keep extra fats low, starch non-existent, and above all, offer your dog variety. Fish is always a good idea, but only once or twice per week.

Dont Miss: What Is In Purina Dog Food

Feed Your Dog An Intelligent Design Prescription Meal For Dogs

At Darwins Pet Products, our number one goal is to help keep your pets healthy and active for as long as possible. Thats why weve worked with leading veterinarians to develop a diet specifically to meet the nutritional needs of dogs with kidney disease. With Darwins Intelligent Design KS Kidney Support for Dog you can rest assured that youre serving your pet the best possible combination of proteins, calcium, vitamin B, and Omega-3 fatty acids to aid in managing their disease. We produce affordable, high-quality raw dog and cat meals which we ship directly to consumers so they are as fresh and convenient as possible. Our meals are high in protein, gluten-free, wheat free, and are created to provide complete and balanced nutrition. We also provide a library of articles in the hope of providing consumers with useful information to help their pets.

We encourage you to learn more about our meals for dogs and meals for cats. If you think you might want a trial of Darwins , we would love to send you our meals and hear how much your dog or cat loves them.

What Is The Life Expectancy Of Sufferers

According to a recent study, the median life expectancy from diagnosis to death, including from euthanasia, was at 226 days. The vast majority was somewhere in the range between 112 to 326 days.

While that may seem bleak, with a proper diet to slow the advance of the disease, your dog can live even longer, some even years if the failure is caught on time.

Dont Miss: Is Canned Dog Food Better Than Kibble

Low Phosphorus Dog Food: 5 Recommended Options

Just like humans, a dogs kidneys play a vital role in their overall health. Unfortunately, research shows that approximately 10 percent of geriatric dogs suffer from chronic kidney disease , which can manifest as significant weight loss, vomiting, lethargy, and more.

Kidney disease should always be taken seriously, and there are several things that you can do to help your dogs kidney health. Monitoring your dogs phosphorus intake is one of them, and some veterinarians may recommend a low phosphorus dog food. Heres what you need to know.

Which Is Better: A Diet High In Protein Or Low In Protein

Hills Prescription Diet k/d Kidney Care Dog Food | Chewy

Low phosphorus diets may be high or low in protein. While it is important that your dog continues to have protein in their diet, the amount needed will be dependent on factors such as the progression of the kidney disease.

Although high protein diets can be beneficial for some dogs with kidney disease, others may not be able to tolerate them. Dogs with more advanced kidney disease may not be able to handle low phosphorus foods that are high in protein because the dogs kidneys may be unable to filter out the protein.

Ultimately, it is best to consult with your vet to find out whether your dog would benefit more from a low or high protein diet.

Read Also: What Dog Food Is Good For Your Dog

Best Low Phosphorus Dog Foods

You should never change your dogs dietespecially to a low-phosphorus foodwithout consulting your veterinarian. If youve decided together that a low phosphorus diet might be right for your dog, the following are some good options to discuss.

All featured products are chosen at the discretion of the author. However, Great Pet Care may make a small affiliate commission if you click through and make a purchase.

The A in this food option stands for aromatic. The goal of this food is to help stimulate your dogs senses and help with their appetite.

Highlights:

• Nutrient-dense food packs a punch with smaller portions, which might help if your dog is suffering from a decreased appetite due to kidney issues
• A veterinarian-approved combination of fish oil, low phosphorus, and targeted protein levels help support overall kidney function

Things to Consider:

• As a prescription diet, you will need veterinarian approval to purchase
• There are multiple versions of the Royal Canin Renal Food for dogs, differentiated by letters. Make sure to pay attention when ordering to avoid choosing the wrong food for your dog.

This low-phosphorus dog food was made with your dogs ultimate digestion needs in mind, with a real focus on sensitivities and allergies. This is a good non-prescription option, but you should speak to your veterinarian if youre interested in trying this food.

Highlights

What to consider:

• The bland taste might not be for every dog

How Long Would My Dog Live With Kidney Failure

According to a study, the average life expectancy of a dog diagnosed with kidney failure can range between 112 to 326 days. However, as bleak as it may seem, the right diet and proper care can show the progression of the disease and your dog may live several years if the diagnosis and treatment are taken care of on time.

You May Like: Who Makes Ol Roy Dog Food

What Should I Expect From My Dog If He Has Kidney Disease

While you can ensure a long and comfortable life for your dog even with kidney disease, it can cause certain problems. In addition to changing your dogs diet, you must also consider your pets lifestyle and water consumption. Also, you can expect different behavior and mood from them. Kidney disease can lead to poor appetite, which causes lethargy and constant tiredness. Maintain your poochs muscle mass and keep up with weight maintenance by adding food toppers on his regular food such as fish oils, tuna juice, and chicken stock.