Tailored nutrition can support feline renal health, especially diets low in protein, sodium, and phosphorus, but high in potassium and omega-3 fatty acids.
Kidney health is a common concern in feline patients, which is one of the reasons it’s so important to discuss renal health with clients. One of the most effective ways to support renal health is with tailored nutrition. Generally, renal diets include lower levels of protein, sodium, and phosphorus compared to traditional diets and more potassium and omega-3s. Let’s examine the research and why this type of nutritional approach to feline renal health can be successful.
Why the Right Diet Supports Feline Renal Health
Nutrition is a cornerstone of kidney health in cats. Recent clinical trials demonstrate the efficacy of renal diets, which include higher levels of potassium and lower levels of protein, sodium, and phosphorus. Additionally, diets with higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids can also be beneficial. There are myriad ways such diets can have therapeutic benefits for the kidneys, including by:
- Reducing the workload on the kidneys
- Managing waste product accumulation
- Addressing dehydration
- Balancing electrolytes and minerals
- Supporting overall health and wellbeing
Higher Potassium Levels May Help the Body Maintain Healthy pH Levels
Potassium plays a critical role in maintaining fluid balance within the body. It helps regulate cellular hydration and osmotic pressure, which is essential for proper kidney function. Adequate potassium levels help the kidneys manage fluid levels effectively, supporting better overall kidney health.
Beyond that, the kidneys also play a crucial role in maintaining the body’s pH balance, and additional potassium in the diet may assist in neutralizing excess acids.
Supporting Feline Renal Health with Orally Fed Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Recent research demonstrates promising results regarding supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids to support feline renal health. Cats who were given fish oils enriched with docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) for 28 days showed:
- Decreased blood levels of arachidonic acid
- Higher ratios of DHA to arachidonic acid
- Improved ratios of urine protein and creatinine
Beyond that, omega-3 fatty acids support healthy renal inflammation levels and renal blood flow.
The Importance of Choosing Protein Quality Over Quantity
The kidneys filter out nitrogenous waste products, such as urea, which is primarily produced during protein metabolism. As such, diets formulated for renal support generally feature reduced protein content compared to typical adult cat foods. However, the goal is to provide high-quality protein that’s easier to digest and easier for the kidneys to process rather than simply limiting a diet’s protein quantity.
Balancing Sodium and Fluids to Prevent Dehydration
Dehydration is a common concern in all cats, especially ones needing additional renal support. The kidneys require proper hydration levels for optimal functioning, and low-sodium diets may help prevent fluid retention and reduce the workload on the heart and kidneys.
Phosphorus Restriction for Kidney Support
The kidneys excrete excess phosphorus from the body. In patients who require additional support, it can be difficult to maintain proper mineral balances. As such, feline renal support diets have lower phosphorus levels compared to regular diets.
Supplementing the Feline Diet for Renal Support
Feline Renal Support from Standard Process is an oral supplement for cats that helps support the kidneys, urinary system, and natural rehabilitation of the kidneys. It includes high-quality protein, New Zealand green mussel, organic alfalfa, organic beet, and other whole foods and nutrients that support feline renal health.
Visit Standard Process to learn more.
AUTHOR PROFILE
IVC Journal is a division of Redstone Media Group. Innovation is the key to veterinarians staying competitive and being able to provide their clients with the absolute best care possible. IVC Journal delivers the most up to date and compelling information available by bridging the gap between the traditional worlds of allopathic and integrative veterinary care.
