Diets for kidney needs
Diet
In order to feed a dog with kidney problems the best diet, it is important to be aware of your dog's current blood work numbers. Different stages and types of kidney problems require different diets.
Phosphorus and Sodium
One of the first things you should do if your dog's blood work indicates kidney problems is to evaluate whether or not the level of phosphorus in his diet needs to be reduced. This can be as simple as substituting dark chicken meat for white chicken meat and omitting high phosphorus foods like raw meaty bones and canned fish.
Protein
Research has shown that high-protein diets don't cause renal problems and continuing dogs on good protein is important for renal disorders.
Fat
More fat in the meat means less protein, and therefore less phosphorus. So keep up the fat, but be aware that dogs with renal conditions are more prone to pancreatitis. Keep an eye and analyze the lipase levels in your dog's bloodwork, as they can indicate the first signs of pancreatitis.
Carbohydrates
Certain grains tend to be high in phosphorus and are best avoided.
Phosphorus contents of some low-phosphorus foods
(per cup)
Tapioca, Pearl ------ 10.6 mg
Rice, white, glutinous, cooked ----- 14 mg
Rice noodles, cooked ----- 35.2 mg
Couscous, cooked ----- 35 mg
Potato, white, cooked ------ 68 mg
Sweet potato, cooked ------ 105 mg
Dogs with renal issues may do better on several small meals a day. As always offer plenty of variety.
SAMPLE DIET 1
11 ounces cooked sticky rice (sushi rice)
2 teaspoons unsalted butter
11 ounces high-fat ground beef
2 cooked egg whites (no yolk)
1 teaspoon ground eggshell
Mix the rice, butter and ground beef. Add the egg whites and ground eggshell. Mix well and serve.
SAMPLE DIET 2
12 ounces cooked unflavored Malt-O-Meal
1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter
8 ounces cooked dark meat chicken
1 egg
2 tablespoons heavy cream
Grated cheese, such as parmesan, ricotta, or cheddar (optional)
Mix together Malt-O-Meal and butter and set mixture aside to cool. Add chicken, egg, cream, and cheese (if using). Mix well and serve.
SAMPLE DIET 3
8 ounces cooked sticky rice
2 teaspoons unsalted butter
6 ounces boiled sweet potatoes (substitute potatoes, if desired)
8 ounces ground pork and lamb
3 egg whites
1 teaspoons ground eggshell
Stir together rice, butter, sweet potatoes, ground meat, egg whites, and eggshell. Mix well and serve.
OTHER RECOMMENDED FOODS
Green tripe is another low-phosphorus choice that can be substituted for meat.
Drained mackerel or salmon can be substituted for the meat for variety. (remember not to add calcium if you are feeding fish with bones). Because of the bone, fish is high phosphorus and should be used sparingly. Avoid tuna, which is high in mercury.
Because of high fat content, pork and lamb are great choices for dogs with kidney issues. Do monitor for symptoms of pancreatitis, as dogs with renal issues frequently develop this condition.
Beef kidney, liver, and egg yolks, in small amounts, are also good additions to the diet. While these are high in phosphorus, they also provide nutrients your dog needs.
SUPPLEMENTS
* Fish or salmon oil (omega-3 fish and salmon oils have been proven to protect the kidneys. Offer 1000 mg per 10 pounds of body weight)
* COQ10 (recent studies show that COQ10 helps reduce creatine levels and restore normal kidney function. Offer 2 mg per pound of body weight)
* Vitamins A, B and E (these are great for supporting the kidneys and should be given regularly)