Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
The nutritional management of feline chronic kidney disease
- Journal:
- Companion Animal
- Year:
- 2015
- Authors:
- Danks, Lee
- Affiliation:
- Veterinary Scientific Support Manager, Royal Canin, Crown Pet Foods Ltd, Oak Tree Meadow, Blackworthy Road, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7PH
- Species:
- cat
Plain-English summary
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a common issue in older cats, and while it gets worse over time, there are ways to help slow it down. One of the most important strategies is changing their diet to meet specific needs. This includes making sure they get enough energy to stay healthy, reducing symptoms related to waste buildup in the body, balancing fluids and minerals, and slowing the disease's progression. The article emphasizes that starting a special renal diet early can help your cat feel better and accept the new food more easily. Overall, managing your cat's diet can make a significant difference in their health and comfort.
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a frequent disease seen in older cats and while it is a progressive condition, the veterinary practice team can play a key role in delaying the inevitable. Dietary modifications are key to slowing the progression of renal disease and alleviating its metabolic consequences. There are four main objectives of nutritional management. These are: a) provide sufficient energy to maintain a good body condition; b) alleviate the clinical manifestations of uraemia; c) minimise fluid, electrolyte and acid-base disturbances; and d) slow disease progression. This article reviews the nutritional concepts employed in the management of CKD, and demonstrates why a renal diet should be implemented early in the disease to maximise both its benefits and acceptance by the feline patient.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://doi.org/10.12968/coan.2015.20.3.162