If you're reading this, chances are you're a dedicated cat parent considering every possible avenue to ensure your feline friend's health, especially if they're battling kidney disease. Kidney disease, a common ailment in cats, often necessitates changes to their usual diet. This article will discuss the specifics of what constitutes an appropriate cat food for kidney disease, the nutritional adjustments required, and how dietary changes can potentially slow the progress of kidney failure.
Reviewing the implications of kidney disease in cats
As kidney disease progresses in cats, the small filtering units inside the kidneys, called nephrons, start to become damaged. Over time, fewer healthy nephrons are left to do the important work of filtering waste from the blood. Ultimately, this makes it harder for the kidneys to do their job properly.
Because the kidneys are less effective, several problems can arise:
- The build-up of harmful substances in the blood, as they're not being filtered out well.
- Difficulty in getting rid of waste products in the urine.
- Unbalanced levels of important minerals and salts, like potassium and sodium.
- Loss of important proteins that the body needs.
- Disruption in the production of certain hormones that help regulate bodily functions.
These issues can have a ripple effect, causing complications in other parts of the body. To recognize these and other symptoms early, make sure to read our article on the symptoms of kidney disease in cats.
What to look for in a good quality renal diet for cats
If your cat has been diagnosed with kidney disease, one of the best ways to manage their health is through diet. Specialized "renal diets" are often recommended by vets for cats in certain stages of kidney disease. These diets can actually extend your cat's life and improve their quality of life. Here's what you should look for when choosing a renal diet for your cat:
1. Less protein, but high-quality
Special kidney diets often contain less protein than regular cat food, but don't worry, they are not protein-deficient. The protein is usually of high quality, which means it's easier for your cat's body to use. Feeding high levels of protein increases the possibility of loss in the urine. The aim is to have at least 24% protein on a dry matter basis.
Please also note that reducing protein too much can cause your cat to lose muscle and negatively affect their overall well-being due to not getting enough calories from protein. Reducing protein too much can risk it not getting the energy it needs, which is counterproductive.
The goal is to find a balance. A moderate reduction in protein, along with lowering phosphorus levels, seems to be the best approach for most cats with kidney disease. It provides benefits to the kidneys without causing other health issues.
2. Low phosphorus levels
Many cats with kidney disease have elevated blood levels of phosphorus or hyperphosphatemia. Phosphorus levels are usually reduced in a renal diet, and this is a good thing for cats with kidney issues. Lowering phosphorus can slow down the disease's progression and may even extend your cat's life.
3. High potassium levels
Potassium is often depleted in cats with kidney disease. A good renal diet should have higher levels of potassium to compensate for this loss and maintain a healthy balance.
4. Omega-3 fatty acids
Look for foods that have added omega-3 fatty acids. These are beneficial because they can reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and have antioxidant effects. Although specific studies on cats are limited, diets high in omega-3s have been linked to longer survival times.
5. Balanced sodium and fiber
A good renal diet has less sodium but may contain more soluble fiber compared to standard diets. This helps in managing your cat’s overall health.
6. High caloric density
Cats with kidney disease often have progressive weight loss. So, a diet that's higher in calories can help maintain their weight.
7. High moisture content
Cats with kidney disease are at a higher risk of dehydration, so it's essential to ensure they're getting enough fluids. Look for foods with high moisture content or consider transitioning them to a primarily canned diet or adding moisture to their dry food.
8. Palatable and easy to eat
If your cat doesn't like the food, they won't eat it, and that's a problem. Experiment with different options to see which one they prefer. Some cats like their food heated to room temperature, or you can try adding a little water or tuna juice to make it more appealing.
Evidence that diets for kidney disease in cats work
Studies show that the right diet can make a substantial difference in both the quality and length of life for cats with stage 2 or more advanced kidney disease. Here's how:
Longer life expectancy
In a carefully controlled study, cats with stage 2 or 3 kidney disease who were fed a renal diet lived significantly longer compared to those on regular cat food. Specifically, the median survival time for cats on a renal diet was 633 days, while for those on a regular diet, it was only 264 days. Another study showed similar results, with a median survival time of 480 days for cats on a renal diet versus just 210 days for those on a standard diet.
Better management
One of the scary aspects of kidney disease in cats is the risk of a "uremic crisis," which is a severe worsening of kidney function that can be fatal. Remarkably, in the same controlled study, none of the cats fed a renal diet experienced this type of crisis or died due to kidney disease. On the other hand, 6 out of 23 cats on a standard diet faced a uremic crisis, and five of them passed away as a result.
Expert tips on feeding a kidney diet to your cat
Switching your cat to a renal diet is a significant step in managing kidney disease, but it's important to do it right. Here are some pointers for a smooth transition:
1. Slow and steady introduction
Ease into the new diet over a 2-4 week period. A sudden change could upset your cat's stomach or make them resistant to the new food.
2. Wait until you're home
If your cat has been hospitalized, wait until you're back home to start the new diet. The familiar environment will make the change less stressful for them. Additionally, even if your cat was eating a particular diet in the hospital, we recommend against feeding the same when you get home to avoid food aversions. That is, there is a good chance it will not eat the same diet at home, even though it was eating it in the hospital.
3. Special care for advanced cases
For cats in stage 4 of kidney disease, eating can be a struggle no matter what food is offered. To entice them, try warming the food to room temperature or adding a splash of water or tuna juice for extra flavor.
4. Consult a veterinary nutritionist for homemade diets
If you're considering making your own renal diet at home, consult a board-certified veterinary nutritionist. Some homemade recipes can lack the essential nutrients your cat needs.
By following these tips, you're doing your best to make the diet transition as comfortable as possible for your cat, while ensuring they get the specialized nutrition they need. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized guidance tailored to your cat's condition.
In conclusion, managing kidney disease in cats involves a specialized diet that balances various nutrients. Key elements of this diet include moderate protein levels, low phosphorus, high potassium, omega-3 fatty acids, balanced sodium and fiber, high caloric density, high moisture content, and palatability. Evidence shows cats with kidney disease on such diets have increased life expectancy and better disease management. Transitioning your cat to this diet requires patience and careful planning. Consultation with a veterinary nutritionist is advised for preparing homemade diets. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized guidance for your cat's condition.