Diet for Chronic Kidney Disease 

The use of an appropriately formulated diet is the only treatment that has been shown to prolong survival times and improve quality of life in pets with Chronic Kidney Disease. I have seen the best results with freshly fed pets on a specific formulated raw diet whether it be home cooked or raw. Cooking tends to reduce phosphorus levels and is often preferred over raw food. I recommend to do half and half to keep vitamin intake from raw ingredients.

Dry food is a big ‘No No’ in CKD. Dry foods are dehydrating to the bowel, this delivery system can increase thirst and tax the kidneys further. Fresher and more bioavailable proteins are more effective as the kidney’s don’t have to work quite so hard. The protein in dry food can be cross-linked and not very easily assimilated. Dry foods are often higher in sodium and contain a large content of starch, both inappropriate for cats and dogs and kidney disease.

Restricting dietary protein is controversial as testing and research was mostly based on processed food fed cats and dogs with limited solid findings. There isn’t a clear consensus as to what level protein intake should be reduced to in the diet of pets with CKD. In stage 1 and 2 CKD, we find moderate levels of fresh and more bioavailable proteins, low in phosphorus and reduced sodium and potassium is the best.pu

The type of protein you feed a dog with CKD should also be considered. Protein with high biological values leaves less waste behind. For this reason, protein derived from sources such eggs, fish and meats are preferable to vegetable-derived protein such as tofu.

In pets with CKD, the excretion of phosphorous is impaired, which can result in further damage to the kidneys. Therefore, while an important component of a healthy pet’s diet, phosphorous should be restricted somewhat. In fact, dietary restriction of phosphorous has been shown to slow down the progression of CKD.

Foods highest in phosphorus include raw bones, dairy products, organ meats, and egg yolks. That does not mean not to feed these foods at all, as they are an important component of a healthy diet, but they should be fed in moderation.

When it comes to sodium, there are clear benefits to restricting it in the diet. The calcium and phosphorus levels have to be finely tuned for this very reason. Calcium is especially important because it binds to phosphorous and therefore helps to remove excessive amounts of phosphorous from your pet’s body. They are both incredibly important minerals for your pet’s health.

It’s recommended that sodium levels should be restricted moderately. This is because excessive levels of sodium can over work the kidneys but still required for other important bodily functions.

Sodium, potassium and magnesium can put a high strain on the kidneys and needs to be considered carefully when formulating a diet.

Water

Urination is frequent and thirst can be common in CKD as the body wishes to rid itself of toxins. Giving fresh filtered water is essential. Unfortunately, a lot of tap water contains toxins such as chlorine, fluoride, aluminum, nitrates, insecticides, herbicides, prescription medications and more. This will only further put pressure on the system.

There’s a fine balance between keeping hydrated and not over taxing the kidneys. We find a fresher diet and balanced diet for the kidneys may reduce excessive thirst.

To keep things more interesting a broth could be a great alternative to water. However, be careful the broth doesn’t contain high levels of sodium. Would highly recommend to make own. 

Supplements to consider

B vitamins such as methylated forms of folate (B9) and cobalamin (B12) are essential in this case.  B complex is best to support kidney function. I often find food alone doesn’t offer enough support.

Omega-3 fatty acid are essential in supporting CKD patients. In particular, it’s recommended to include EPA and DHA for their anti-inflammatory effects. Polyunsaturated omega fatty acids such as olive oil can slow the decline of kidney function associated with CKD but omega-6 fatty acids have been found to be harmful. I prefer certain types of clean fish oil such as sardines and algae oil. Frozen sardines are better than canned as this can pose mercury problems if fed frequently.

CoQ10 (Co Enzyme Q10) in CKD does amazing job. Researchers have found evidence that a milligram of CoQ10 per pound of body weight daily may help reduce creatinine levels.

• A fresh and unadulterated fresh food diet
• Low in Phosphorus 
• Moderate in protein
• Omega fats and antioxidants
• Low in salt (added salt in particular)
• Super tasty and easily delivered(hunger can decrease in CKD)
• No leftovers fed off the plate