How Can Kidney Diseases In Dogs Be Prevented
Acute kidney failure can be prevented by taking a few steps in making sure your dog is protected from accidental ingestion of toxic substances. Make sure all medications, household cleaning chemicals, insecticides, antifreeze, and other chemicals are all properly resealed and stored in an area that they cannot reach.
Ensure that containers or such substances are also disposed of properly and away from your pups. The garbage can is another thing that bored dogs can easily get into. Here is where they can find a treasure trove of bottles of cleaning materials, discarded chemical-soaked rags, and contaminated food.
The smell of leftover food can definitely attract pups who always have food in their minds. Rotten food thrown in the trash is contaminated with harmful bacteria and possibly other chemicals present in the trash. Make sure that it is covered and not easily accessed by your dogs.
Avoid feeding your pets foods that can be harmful to them. Human foods such as chocolates, raisins, alcohol, coffee, artificial sweeteners, etc.
@click=open = Open & & Hideaccordionondesktop > ingredients
Whole Grain Corn, Brewers Rice, Dried Egg Product, Animal Fat Preserved with Mixed-Tocopherols, Sugar, Dried Whey, Sodium Caseinate, Animal Liver Flavor, Calcium Carbonate, Vegetable Oil, Potassium Chloride, L-Lysine Monohydrochloride, Fish Oil, Salt, Potassium Citrate, Mono and Dicalcium Phosphate, Vitamin E Supplement, Choline Chloride, Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Niacin , Manganese Sulfate, Vitamin A Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate , Thiamine Mononitrate , Vitamin B-12 Supplement, Copper Sulfate, Riboflavin Supplement , Pyridoxine Hydrochloride , Garlic Oil, Folic Acid , Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex , Vitamin D-3 Supplement, Calcium Iodate, Biotin, Sodium Selenite. C262917.
When To Start A Prescription Dog Food Diet
Many health problems in dogs can be managed, at least in part, through their diet. A veterinarian familiar with the specifics of a dogs case is in the best position to determine if a prescription dog food is appropriate. Talk to your veterinarian about prescription dog food if any of the following apply to your dog.
Read Also: My Dog Attacked My Other Dog Over Food
What Is Prescription Dog Food
Prescription dog foods are made with ingredients and nutritional supplements combined in just the right proportions to support the health of dogs who have a particular disease or illness.
For example, a veterinarian might prescribe prescription dog food for a dog with arthritis that contains high levels of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants to reduce inflammation, glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate to protect joint cartilage, and added L-carnitine to keep muscles strong.
Before a prescription dog food can be sold, the manufacturer must put it through extensive testing to show that its safe and effective for dogs with specific diseases. Manufacturers also adhere to rigorous safety and quality control standards when making these special diets. All of this helps ensure that prescription dog foods are worth the extra money.
Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets Nf Kidney Function Canine Formula Dry Dog Food
SEE PRICE IN CART
Every time a new member signs up, we will donate a FREE membership to a Best Friends adopted animal.Best Friends is America’s largest animal sanctuary.
Get all these benefits with $99 annual membership
Our customers typically save close to $200/yr when purchasing preventatives as members of PetPlus.
PetPlus is a membership plan that gives you wholesale pricing on preventatives, supplements and speciality foods.With Free Shipping always, no minimums.
You May Like: Best Dog Food For Dachsunds
What To Feed Dogs With Kidney Disease
The dietary changes that need to be made will depend on the severity of the dogs kidney disease. In general, most vets would prescribe a diet that is lower in phosphorus, sodium, and protein.
Working with your vet is the best way to determine the specific diet and nutrient levels that are appropriate for your dog.
Your Dog Has Arthritis
Arthritis is very common in dogs, particularly as they get older. Combining different forms of treatment, including diet, can decrease a dogs discomfort and increase their mobility.
Therapeutic dog foods that veterinarians prescribe to dogs with arthritis are usually enriched with omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and antioxidants to reduce inflammation and promote joint health. These foods are also often slightly calorie-restricted to help dogs stay slim and supplemented with L-carnitine, an amino acid that helps dogs build and maintain muscle. Hill’s Prescription Diet j/d and Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets JM Joint Mobility are both excellent prescription foods for dogs with arthritis.
And these arent the only conditions that can be managed with prescription dog food! For example:
-
Veterinarians may prescribe dental diets like Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets DH Dental Health to help reduce the development of tartar on teeth.
If you think your pet could benefit from prescription dog food, talk with your vet.
Also Check: Is Soft Dog Food Bad For Dogs
Characteristics Of Foods For Dogs With Kidney Disease
There are a couple of key guidelines to keep in mind when finding food for a dog with kidney issues. Keep in mind that all foods designed to treat kidney disease that are currently on the market require veterinary authorization.
Here are a couple of characteristics of foods for dogs with kidney disease.
- Theyre typically lower in protein. These foods are usually lower in protein content which reduces the strain on the kidneys, which must filter out protein waste products. This can help preserve kidney function and prevent further damage. The recommended protein range for dogs with kidney disease is less than or equal to 14 to 20 percent on a dry-matter basis.
- Kidney-supporting foods feature reduced salt content. Sodium and salt levels are reduced in foods specialized for kidney issues as this reduces the workload on the kidneys. In addition, it can help affected doggos maintain a reasonable blood pressure level.
- Kidney-supporting foods feature reduced phosphorus. Though its reasoning is unclear, limiting the amount of phosphorus along with protein in a dogs diet can help delay the progression of chronic kidney disease. The recommended phosphorus content for dogs suffering kidney disease is somewhere between 0.2 and 0.5 percent on a dry-matter basis.
- The best kidney-friendly foods contain plenty of omega-3s. Omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation which can ease the progression of chronic kidney disease.
Attention We Can Not Ship This Product To You Unless
- You upload a Prescription using the above “UPLOAD PRESCRIPTION” button.
- You or Your vet can fax a prescription to us at 866-352-8812
- Your vet can call in a prescription to us at -340-5704.
- You or Your vet can email a picture of a prescription to us at
*This item requires a prescription through your Vet, please fax us a copy at 866-352-8812. This will not be shipped until we receive that information *
Nutrition Facts
Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets NF Kidney Function Canine Formulas are made with a restricted amount of high-quality protein and restricted phosphorus. The science behind our therapeutic diets represents a collaboration between Purina nutritionists, researchers and veterinarians.
- Restricted amount of high-quality protein for the unique nutritional needs of dogs with kidney conditions
- Restricted phosphorus to nutritionally manage dogs with kidney conditions
Ingredients
Guaranteed Analysis
Also Check: Where To Buy Primal Dog Food
Why Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets
Purina is committed to the health of every petespecially those who have unique nutritional needs. When veterinarians recommend these formulas, its because they trust Purinas expertise. The science behind these therapeutic diets represents a collaboration between Purina nutritionists, researchers and veterinarians.
Your Dog Needs To Lose Weight
Extra body fat makes life shorter and less enjoyable for overweight dogs. It can cause or make many health problems worse, too, including:
Your veterinarian can design a weight loss plan tailored to your dogs individual needs, help you monitor how its working, and make necessary changes as your dogs body condition changes.
Also Check: How To Make Home Cooked Dog Food
Your Dog Has Food Sensitivities Or Gi Problems
Dogs with food allergies typically have chronically itchy skin and, sometimes, gastrointestinal problems. Food intolerances and sensitivities, on the other hand, are usually associated with diarrhea, vomiting, a poor appetite, or excessive gassiness.
Two types of veterinary diets are available for dogs with food allergies.
-
Novel protein diets like Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet NP Novel Protein Alligator and Hill’s Prescription Diet d/d Potato & Duck are made with protein sources that most dogs have never been exposed to before and carbohydrates that usually dont provoke an immune response.
-
Other prescription dog foods are made with hydrolyzed proteins that have been broken into tiny fragments so they can evade detection by the immune system. Hill’s Prescription Diet z/d is a good example of a hydrolyzed dog food. Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EL is a new food that is made with individual amino acids.
Other types of GI health problems can also be treated with prescription dog foods. For example, some types of dog diarrhea respond to highly digestible prescription dog foods like Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric and Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Adult Gastrointestinal. In other cases, high-fiber dog foods like Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Adult Gastrointestinal High Fiber or Hill’s Prescription Diet w/d work better. Talk to your veterinarian to determine what type of food would be best for your dog.
Your Dog Has Kidney Disease
Dogs with chronic kidney disease can live for many months with appropriate treatment. Prescription dog foods for kidney disease can be an important part of therapy.
These diets usually contain a moderate amount of high-quality protein and are low in phosphorous and sodium to reduce the workload on the kidneys. Omega-3 fatty acids, essential amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants may all be supplemented to promote kidney function and overall health and wellness. Whenever possible, dogs with kidney disease should eat wet dog food to help prevent dehydration.
Because dogs with kidney disease often have a reduced appetite, its important to find a kidney diet that your dog enjoys eating. You might need to try several options before finding the one that works best for your dog. Some go-tos include:
Recommended Reading: How To Get Dog Food Cheap
@click=open = Open & & Hideaccordionondesktop > features
Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets NF Kidney Function Canine Formulas are made with a restricted amount of high-quality protein and restricted phosphorus. The science behind our therapeutic diets represents a collaboration between Purina nutritionists, researchers and veterinarians.
- Restricted amount of high-quality protein
- Restricted phosphorus to help support kidneys
How To Transition Your Dog To Prescription Food
If your veterinarian has recommended prescription dog food, your next question is probably how to switch to the new diet. In most cases, its best to make the transition slowly.
Gradually mix increasing amounts of the new food in with decreasing amounts of your dogs old diet over a week or two. This gives your dog a chance to get used to the taste of the new food and gives their GI tract time to adapt. Go even more slowly if your dog is finicky or initially turns up their nose at the new food.
But there are times when your veterinarian may recommend making a quick transition to a new food, so always follow your vets instructions. If you cant get your dog to eat their new prescription diet, talk to your veterinarian about other options that may be available.
Prescription dog foods can reduce and sometimes even eliminate the need for a dog to be on medications or receive other forms of treatment. Ask your vet how diet can play a role in your dogs healthcare.
Featured Image: iStock/Chalabala
Recommended Reading: What Is The Best Dry Dog Food For Diabetic Dogs
Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets Nf Kidney Function Dry Dog Food
**S.O.**THIS PRODUCT IS A SPECIAL ORDER AND MAY TAKE 1-5 DAYS TO SHIP**
Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets NF Kidney Function Canine Formulas are made with a restricted amount of high-quality protein and restricted phosphorus. The science behind our therapeutic diets represents a collaboration between Purina nutritionists, researchers and veterinarians.
What Is Kidney Disease In Dogs
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: When To Stop Soaking Puppy Food
Your Dog Has Bladder Stones
Symptoms of bladder stones in dogs include bloody urine, straining to urinate, and discomfort. Some types of bladder stones can be dissolved with prescription dog foods or medicine, while others need to be physically removed via surgery or other treatments. But an appropriate diet can almost always reduce the chances that bladder stones will return.
For dogs who are prone to bladder stones, wet foods are usually preferable to dry because they help keep the dogs urine dilute, which reduces the chances that stones will form. Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Adult Urinary SO and Hill’s Prescription Diet c/d Multicare dissolve struvite stones and help reduce the formation of struvite and calcium oxalate stones. Hill’s Prescription Diet u/d Urinary Care helps dissolve and prevent the recurrence of urate and cystine stones.
Your veterinarian can determine what type of bladder stones your dog has and how they should be treated.
How Do Nutritional Requirements Differ For Dogs With Ckd
Water. Diseased kidneys are not as effective at excreting waste products from the body through the urine. One consequence of CKD is a decreased ability of the kidneys to concentrate the urine. In order to continue to rid the body of its toxins despite more dilute urine, the body compensates by stimulating greater thirst. This makes it critical for you to provide your dog with an unlimited supply of fresh water. Canned food can help increase your dog’s intake of moisture. To encourage more water intake, change your pets water several times a day and clean your pets water bowl daily.
Protein. Decreased dietary protein appears to slow the progression of CKD by decreasing the workload on the kidneys to excrete protein waste products. Less protein also means less need for the excretion of protein itself through the filtration mechanism of the kidney, which helps preserve kidney function. The recommended range of protein on a dry matter basis for dogs with CKD is less than or equal to 14-20%.
Phosphorus. Limiting dietary phosphorus in dogs with CKD appears to help delay the progression of CKD, although the precise mechanism is unknown. The recommended phosphorus range on a dry matter basis for dogs with CKD is 0.2-0.5%. Since phosphorus content is related to protein content, it is impossible to achieve these lower levels of phosphorus without limiting protein content.
Recommended Reading: How Many Cups In One Pound Of Dog Food
Pro Plan Veterinary Diets Canine Nf Renal Function Dry Formula
A complete diet to support kidney function in case of chronic kidney insufficiency in adult and senior dogs. Formulated with restricted levels of high-quality proteins and phosphorus, this diet helps to slow the progression of the disease. This diet is also enriched with omega-3 fatty acids to help support renal function and the natural anti-inflammatory processes.
- Low level of phosphorus to help slow the progression of renal disease
- Restricted amount of high-quality proteins to help minimise loss of muscle and toxin formation
- Omega-3 fatty acids to help support renal function and natural anti-inflammatory processes.