Cats with CKD require special care to manage their condition and slow disease progression. One crucial aspect is providing an unlimited supply of fresh, clean water to compensate for the kidneys’ reduced ability to concentrate urine. As the kidneys lose their filtering capacity, cats with CKD need to drink more water to remove waste products from their body. Encourage water intake by:
- Changing the water several times daily
- Cleaning the water bowl daily
- Feeding canned kidney support foods high in moisture
CKD Dietary Considerations
Limiting dietary phosphorus is essential to delay disease progression. Phosphorus content is linked to protein content, so reducing protein intake can help restrict phosphorus levels. However, finding the right balance is crucial to avoid muscle breakdown. Cats with CKD require a specific amount of protein to maintain their overall health, and excessive protein restriction can lead to malnutrition.
For cats with uremia, decreasing dietary protein can alleviate clinical signs such as bad breath, nausea, and vomiting. Uremia occurs when creatinine and blood urea nitrogen build up in the bloodstream, causing a range of symptoms. By reducing protein intake, the kidneys don’t have to work as hard to filter the blood, which helps preserve kidney function.
Potassium levels in kidney support diets should be elevated to compensate for losses in the urine. When the kidneys are functioning normally, they actively retain the amount of potassium needed for health. However, in cats with CKD, the kidneys lose their filtering capacity, and too much potassium gets lost in the urine. This loss of potassium can worsen CKD, making it essential to include elevated levels of potassium in kidney support diets.
The Role of Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Dietary omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, can help slow CKD progression by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. These fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties that can help mitigate the damage caused by CKD. When added to kidney support diets, omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce the production of inflammatory compounds that create oxidative stress on diseased kidneys.
Choosing the Right Food for CKD
Your veterinarian will help you select a suitable formulation for your cat. Commercial therapeutic diets for “early” or “advanced” kidney disease are available in various forms, including kibble, canned, and liquid diets. These products are designed to be palatable and help maintain a stable body weight and condition.
When choosing a diet for your cat with CKD, consider the following factors:
- Phosphorus content: Look for diets with reduced phosphorus levels to help delay disease progression.
- Protein content: Ensure the diet provides the right balance of protein to maintain overall health while restricting phosphorus levels.
- Potassium content: Choose a diet with elevated potassium levels to compensate for losses in the urine.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Consider diets that include EPA and DHA to help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.
Tips for Feeding Your Cat with CKD
- Add water, tuna juice, or low-sodium broth to enhance flavor and palatability
- Monitor your cat’s weight and adjust food portions as needed
- Regular veterinary check-ups will help track your cat’s progress and adjust their diet accordingly
- If your cat loses interest in food, your veterinarian may prescribe medication to manage nausea or vomiting, or recommend a feeding tube for nutritional support.
By working closely with your veterinarian and making informed nutritional choices, you can help manage your cat’s CKD and improve their quality of life. With the right diet and care, cats with CKD can live comfortably and maintain their overall health.