There is a rash of dogs with kidney problems these days. If you’re dealing with this, your vet may have recommended low-protein dog food and treats to reduce the amount of work your dog’s kidneys have to do to process food.
Here’s what to look for in a low-protein dog food and treat:
1. Uremic toxins
Uremic toxins are byproducts of normal kidney function. These toxic materials are usually released during urination, but if your dog has kidney problems, this can be more difficult. A low-protein dog diet will limit the production of uremic toxins, making your dog’s kidneys have to work a little less.
2. Nausea
If these uremic toxins build up in your pet, your dog will begin to feel tired or nauseous. She could vomit. Giving your dog low-protein foods will help limit nausea.
3. Low phosphorus content
If your dog suffers from kidney problems, he may not be able to consume much phosphorus (which is found in protein, hence the restriction of the low-protein diet).
If your pet continues on his typical diet, he could develop hyperphosphatemia. This condition ends up in electrolyte imbalances in the dog and if left untreated can also cause kidney failure. Along with kidney problems, this can lead to dialysis.
The kidneys do much of the heavy lifting in removing toxins from your pet’s body. Any chemicals in food, contaminants, insecticides, food dyes, anything that is not necessary for health is eliminated by the kidneys.
Once your dog is diagnosed with kidney problems, you need to find a way to manage it. Veterinarians will generally recommend limiting protein and placing dogs on low protein diets.
However, it is a good balance. According to veterinarian Dr. Pitcairn, you don’t want to cut protein completely, as that can be harmful. But do you want to provide enough good-quality protein (like real meat) so your pet gets the nutrients he needs?
It also says that your dog will need more vitamins A, B and C. These will nourish your pets immune system and help the kidneys.
Many pet owners have opted out of prescription foods and started cooking for their pets.
You can even make homemade low-protein dog treats. They are fun and easy.
If you are interested in learning more about low protein dog treat recipes, please visit my website where I share homemade dog treat recipes for your dog.
