Maintenance Diet for Dogs With Renal Failure

Dogs with renal failure commonly present at the vet clinic suffering from symptoms of excessive urination, weight loss and increased water consumption. This usually happens after 75 percent of the kidney has ceased function, says Dr. Alleice Summers in "Common Diseases of Companion Animals." Veterinary treatment includes a maintenance diet designed to increase kidney function and lessen the symptoms.

  1. Ingredients

    • Veterinarians typically recommend that dogs in renal failure be fed prescription diets low in phosphorus, protein and sodium. These foods contain added sources of potassium, dietary buffering, fiber and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, according to Purina's Veterinary Product Guide.

    Function

    • Low levels of protein and phosphorus reduce the workload of your dog's kidneys by decreasing the excessive by-products that need to be excreted from the body through the urinary system. High fatty acids and low sodium improve blood flow to the kidneys while minimizing high blood pressure. Higher-fiber content decreases serum urea nitrogen and the buffering factors control the acidosis and muscle wasting common in dogs with renal failure, reports Hill's Key to Clinical Nutrition.

    Considerations

    • Dogs in renal failure often suffer from dehydration due to the vomiting, diarrhea and excessive urination symptomatic of the disease. Veterinarians often urge owners to give their dogs canned food for the extra water and ensure that the ailing animal has enough clean water to drink. Your pet may need intravenous or subcutaneous supplemental fluids to combat dehydration, suggests the PetMd website.