Feline Renal Failure Diet – What To Feed To My Cat?

 

What is Renal Failure?

Feline renal failure is a term used for kidney failure. This is a common ailment among cats; one cause is thought to be heightened ph from large amounts of ammonia. That’s what makes cat urine smell so bad. Cat kidney failure creates a snowball effect of toxin build up in their body. A large number of symptoms can be caused by this, mostly weight loss from not eating. Most importantly, though, is that these toxins are poison, poison that will cause the failure of other important organs if not kept in check.

Diet Change as Treatment

Because kidney failure in cats is almost always a chronic condition, treatment is a lifelong necessity. Treatment will consist of fluids, both intravenous and subcutaneous. This will help flush out the toxins built up in your pet’s body. Feline renal failure is also treated with supplements like potassium. These help replace those lost from the toxins and aid in kidney function. Just as important, if not more, is a new diet with moderate levels of protein and low levels of phosphorous. Most cat food manufacturers have a food that is specially formulated for this purpose.

Along with changes in diet, it is important to maintain strong eating habits. Cat illness symptoms make your pet feel horrible. Just like us, they don’t want to eat when they feel that way. Not eating can add to the problem since your cat needs fluids in every form they can get them. Food is a major source of these fluids, and eating encourages your cat to drink. An appetite enhancer can be obtained from your vet if your cat continues to refuse food. Not eating can also cause acid build up in the stomach, leading to acid reflux, another side effect of feline renal failure. This is easily treated with antacid medications like famotidine.

Other Problems

Chronic cat urinary tract infections are a common problem with renal failure. These need to be treated quickly with antibiotics to avoid any more strain on the kidneys. This can be avoided by with the same treatments used for feline renal failure. Just remember, food low in phosphorous and protein and lots of water.