Things You'll Need
- Prescription renal diet cat food
Instructions
Consult with your veterinarian to choose a diet for your cat that reduces the amount of waste entering its system. There are special cat foods designed for kidney failure that are only available through your veterinarian. A diet low in salt, protein and phosphorus will assist in balancing your cat's electrolytes.
Introduce the new diet by replacing small amounts of your cat's current food with the prescription diet food. Gradually increase the amounts of the new food as you decrease your cat's current food until you are feeding the prescription diet food only.
Because of the lower protein level in prescription foods for kidney failure, the food may be less flavorful and so be unappealing to the cat. Add the water from canned tuna or sardines to your cat's food to boost the taste. Make sure it has no added salt. If you have been using a dry food option, try the canned version of the prescription food.
Heat your cat's food in the microwave to help make it more appetizing. Don't overheat it; it should be just warm enough to eat comfortably. Warm food will have an aroma that can help encourage your cat to eat. Smell arouses the cat's appetite.
Make sure your cat has continuous access to water. Provide chemical-free spring water in various bowls throughout the house. Keeping plenty of water bowls available will create a power of suggestion, encouraging your cat to drink.
Elevate food bowls so your cat doesn't strain to eat. Provide a stress-free, calm, warm and comforting environment for your cat. Create easy access to your cat's usual hang-out spots by providing steps. Making your cat's routine spots accessible will lesson pain and strain on their muscles.