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
my 6 month old white shepard has kidney problems that
she has had since birth. is white fish with rice and other carbs okay for her ?? Thank You
Hello, My cat Chelsea who is 9 yrs. old was just diagnosed with early stages of kidney disease.Even though she’s still very active, she does drink copious amt’s of water about every other day..not every day & urinates quite often. The vet put her on prescribed cat food which she will not eat even when mixed with her regular food. We’ve tried mixing a bit of tuna water, cat nip and she still will not eat. I know this is a danger. She must eat and not lose more weight. Normally she weighed 10lbs. now she’s lost 2 1/1 lbs. Please, can you help with her non-eating problem? I would appreciate it very much. Thank You, Jo Dean
My cat, Hallie, has been diagnosed with kidney disease. She is only 12. I have been administering fluids for two weeks and I do not believe that her tissues are absorbing the fluid like in the beginning. It is difficult to see a beloved pet go through a difficult time and only those who love animals can understand the bond you have with your pet. Through the book, Natural Cat, I have found several helpful tips. (even a kidney disease food you prepare- 4 parts carb, 2 parts protein, 1 part vegetable, 2 tsp butter) Prayer helps and patience. I am getting her B.U..N. levels checked and creatine (sp?) last time she was down to 32 from 159 and 2.8,but I am sure she has worsened due to not eating. (liquified foods with my assistance now) My vet also prescribed an antacid that will help her feel less nauseous. Prayers at all facing this difficult challenge–I am sure your pets know you love them to try so hard to make their lives better. I’d appreciate some prayers too for anyone willing out there for Hallie. I will try some of the tips I read here and see if it helps. God Bless.