High Protein Diets Do Not Cause Kidney Disease
High protein diets do not cause kidney disease. In humans and dogs, a reduced phosphorus diet helps manage symptoms when kidney disease is already present. This effect is less clear in cats. Protein and phosphorus are found together in meat, so in order to reduce phosphorus, protein also has to be limited. However, many experts feel that—especially for cats—it is much more important for the cat to eat and maintain body weight than to try to feed any particular food. If the cat doesn’t like a food and won’t eat it, the resulting loss of weight and body condition can be as deadly as kidney disease itself. — Dr. Jean Hofve, Holistic Vet
Hello, I am recently on a very confusing and scary quest for the “right” food for my feline friend that has kidney disease. The more I read and the more I learn, the more confused I am. Whatever food I give her is going to be a result to her health or …..this scares the crap out of me. Everyone has a different opinion,so I thought I’d ask yours. Have a good day, Lisa
Hi, Lisa,
Oh, I wish I were a vet! Dr. Hofve is not affiliated with this blog, I’m just quoting her. But I know that the holistic vet for my preferred pet food often says the same thing… i.e., keep the cats eating, that’s the most important thing.
It’s really a matter to discuss with your vet. I did have a cat with kidney cancer who thrived on a holistic canned food — I didn’t feed him dry at all because it’s so hard for kitties to get enough fluids, especially once they start getting sick. His quality of life was very good.
One thing you should ask your vet is about the use of fish oil to supplement whatever your kitty eats. Fish oil is a hugely effective anti-inflammatory, which somehow protects the diseased kidneys and could extend the life of your pet.
Bless you!
Teresa
http://holisticpetfood.wordpress.com