Dietary Management for Renal Disease In Cats
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is the persistent decline of kidney function.
CKD is one of the most common conditions affecting mostly older cats. Kidneys are responsible to maintain fluid balance in the body, maintaining salt balance, acid balance, producing hormones and excreting waste products (urine)
Once a cat has developed CKD it is important to understand that this is not a curable disease, therefore, it is important to ensure it will not develop or that if CKD has developed proper support and treatment can postpone further decrease of kidney function and as such increase the quality of life.
The earliest signs of kidney disease are an increase in thirst, increased urination, weight loss, lethargy, bad breath, ulceration in the oral cavity, regular vomiting and poor appetite.
When kidney failure is diagnosed often already 70% of the kidney function is lost. It is therefore important to action directly by hospitalizing the cat for dialysis treatment, flushing the toxins build-up, out of the body and initiating a maintenance diet which reduces the accumulated waste products in the bloodstream, allowing the kidneys to halt the process of deterioration and to manage the washing out of waste products. Once you have been able to reach this new balance, most cats adapt well to the new situation and regain their appetite as they no longer get nauseous due to the build-up of toxins in their blood. Managing a cat with kidney failure can be made easier with a prescription diet with the above mentioned, efficacy which will help improve quality of life and prevent further damage to the kidneys. A restricted protein and low phosphorous content will prevent excessive protein and phosphorus in the blood whereas essential fatty acids help maintain the blood flow through the kidney and reduce inflammation, added potassium will prevent hypokalemia (low blood potassium) as low potassium level weakens the muscles (chin on chest in extreme situations) and anti-oxidants help protect the kidneys against further damage.
If you have doubts that your cat might be suffering from early-stage kidney failure, there are several tests available that can help us determine this and initiate a plan to prevent further damage.
Switching your elderly cat to an age-appropriate diet, as well as encouraging water intake by placing a water fountain, have water plants in pots outside, from which cats can drink, or adding water to their food will also improve the cat’s health.
Do not hesitate to contact us at Al Barsha Veterinary Clinic should you have any questions regarding kidney disease.
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