Chronic renal (kidney) failure in cats is a common problem as pets age, especially those who have been fed a diet of primarily dry cat food. Switching to homemade cat food may provide the best chance for recovery.
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requirements
Cat food specifically designed for the needs of cats with renal failure should contain high quality protein to reduce stress on the kidneys. At first it may be important to feed a low protein diet, depending on the animal’s illness and your veterinarian’s recommendations. A low-phosphorus diet can reduce mineral deposits in the kidneys. Food should be low in sodium and contain omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E to slow the progression of the disease. Cats need supplemental taurine. Vitamin B complex will increase appetite and energy.
Low protein
Low-protein foods might use cooked brown rice as a base, with the addition of high-quality omega-3 fish oil, vitamin E, and a bit of brewer’s yeast for flavor and nutrients. Reduce the amount of oils if your cat has loose stools. Mixing canned tuna in water may help tempt pets to eat it.
Once your cat is on the staple food, add cut vegetables for fiber and nutrients. Steamed mashed carrots, potato peelings, frozen peas, and fresh spinach or kale are acceptable. Do not use cooked spinach, and do not give your cat onions.
Spirulina is a blue-green algae nutrient that some cats love. Others will take small amounts mixed with food. Baby food, while not prepared with a cat’s nutritional need in mind, is sodium-free and can be used to optimize calories.
High quality protein
If kidney failure is not severe or advanced, high-quality protein is a better choice than low protein, which can make wasting and malnutrition worse over time. Try to imitate a cat’s natural diet to find the best ingredients.
The cat usually eats fish, birds, and small rodents that have partially ingested greens, seeds, and other plant materials in their crops, stomach, and intestines. They were swallowing the flesh of organs and bones. None of the meat or vegetables would be cooked through.
Try chicken hearts and bars, eggs and turkey mixed with wheatgrass or spirulina juice, non-dairy probiotic and enzyme supplements, and alfalfa sprouts. Experiment with what the cat will accept, especially if it is used to dry kibble. To lower phosphorus, avoid milk and beef. Offer fresh filtered or distilled water to drink.
advice
Cats prefer food that is body temperature and fresh (just killed). To entice cats with a piece of raw chicken soup, wave it as if it were alive and stir before throwing it at the cat. Pieces of wild cat can be added to food to make it more interesting. Be sure to practice safe handling methods when using raw meat.
