Caring for a cat diagnosed with Chronic Renal Insufficiency (CRI) presents unique challenges, particularly concerning their diet. Cats suffering from CRI often experience a decrease in appetite or complete anorexia due to the buildup of uremic toxins, which irritate the gastrointestinal lining. This reduced food intake exacerbates protein catabolism, leading to an increased production of these harmful toxins and a worsening of the cat’s condition. Therefore, maintaining adequate food intake is paramount. Brit VD Renal Cat food is specifically formulated to address these dietary needs, supporting cats through this challenging condition.
Transitioning to Brit VD Renal Cat Food
When introducing Brit VD Renal Cat food, a gradual transition from the cat’s previous diet is essential. This approach helps to minimize digestive upset and encourages acceptance of the new food. The palatability of Brit VD Renal Cat, especially in its wet food formulation, is designed to enhance acceptance and ensure that cats, even those with a poor appetite, are more inclined to eat.
Nutritional Composition and Benefits
Brit VD Renal Cat food is carefully crafted with a specific nutritional profile to support kidney function.
Key Ingredients:
The primary ingredients include eggs (26%) and yellow peas (25%), providing high-quality protein sources that are easier for compromised kidneys to process. Hydrolysed salmon protein (10%) and hydrolysed chicken protein (8%) further contribute essential amino acids in a highly digestible form. Chicken fat (8%) and salmon oil (2%) offer beneficial fatty acids, including omega-3 and omega-6, which are important for overall health and can help reduce inflammation.
Other notable ingredients include buckwheat, apple pulp, and hydrolysed chicken liver, which contribute to the balanced nutrient profile and palatability. Egg shells are included as a natural source of calcium.
The formulation also incorporates a blend of functional ingredients aimed at supporting kidney health and overall well-being:
- Potassium citrate (0.8%): Helps to manage urinary pH and can reduce the risk of calcium oxalate crystal formation, a common concern in cats with kidney disease.
- Psyllium husks and seeds (0.5%): Provide dietary fiber to aid digestion and promote satiety.
- Dried algae (0.5%, Ascophyllum nodosum): A source of minerals and potentially beneficial compounds.
- Chitosan (0.08%): A binder that can help reduce the absorption of phosphorus in the digestive tract, crucial for managing hyperphosphatemia in CRI cats.
- Yeast extract (source of mannan-oligosaccharides, 0.025%), β-glucans (0.022%), and fructo-oligosaccharides (0.02%): These prebiotics and beta-glucans support a healthy gut microbiome, which can positively influence overall health and nutrient absorption.
- Mojave yucca (0.02%): Known for its potential to help reduce stool odor.
- Sea buckthorn (0.015%): A source of antioxidants and beneficial fatty acids.
Analytical Constituents:
Brit VD Renal Cat features a carefully balanced macronutrient profile:
- Crude protein 23.0%: Moderate protein levels are essential to provide necessary amino acids without overwhelming the kidneys.
- Fat content 19.0%: Higher fat content helps ensure adequate caloric intake, especially important for cats with reduced appetites.
- Crude fibre 2.2%: Supports digestive health.
- Crude ash 5.2%: Controlled ash content is important in renal diets.
- Moisture 10%: This refers to the dry matter. Wet food formulations will have a higher moisture content, which is beneficial for hydration.
- Omega 3 0.75%, Omega 6 3.0%: Essential fatty acids for anti-inflammatory effects and overall health.
- Calcium 0.7%, Phosphorus 0.4%: A reduced phosphorus level is a cornerstone of renal diets, helping to slow the progression of kidney disease. Calcium levels are balanced accordingly.
- Sodium 0.3%, Magnesium 0.08%, Potassium 0.5%: Electrolyte levels are carefully managed.
Metabolisable Energy:
The food provides 4,000 kcal/kg, indicating a calorie-dense formula to support energy requirements.
Nutritional and Gut Flora Stabilisers
Brit VD Renal Cat is fortified with essential vitamins and minerals, alongside specialized additives to support cats with CRI:
Nutritional Additives per 1 kg:
- Vitamins: A comprehensive range including Vitamin A (25,000 I.U.), Vitamin D3 (850 I.U.), Vitamin E (1,000 mg), Vitamin C (400 mg), Choline chloride (2,300 mg), Biotin (3 mg), and a full spectrum of B vitamins (B1, B2, B6, B12, Niacinamide, Calcium-D-pantothenate, Folic acid).
- Minerals: Including Zinc chelate of amino acids hydrate (120 mg), Ferrous chelate of amino acids hydrate (60 mg), Manganese chelate of amino acids hydrate (60 mg), Potassium iodide (4 mg), Cupric chelate of amino acids hydrate (3.5 mg), and organic Selenium (0.2 mg).
- Amino Acids: Taurine (2,300 mg), L-carnitine (230 mg), Arginine (3,200 mg), and L-methionine (4,000 mg) are included to support cardiovascular health and metabolic functions often impacted by CRI.
Gut Flora Stabilisers per 1 kg:
- Enterococcus faecium DSM 10663/NCIMB 10415 (4b1707) 1×10⁹ CFU: A beneficial probiotic strain to support a healthy gut microbiome, which plays a vital role in the overall health of cats with CRI.
Method of Use and Feeding Guide
The feeding table provides a guideline for daily amounts based on the cat’s weight:
| Cat weight (kg) | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 12 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Daily amount (g/day) | 55 | 65 | 75 | 80 | 85 | 95 | 105 | 120 |
It is crucial to transition your cat gradually to Brit VD Renal Cat, ideally over 7-10 days. Monitor your cat’s intake and adjust portions as needed, always consulting with your veterinarian for personalized recommendations. Ensure fresh drinking water is always available.
Brit VD Renal Cat food is designed to offer crucial nutritional support for cats suffering from Chronic Renal Insufficiency, helping to improve their quality of life by managing dietary challenges associated with the condition. Always follow your veterinarian’s advice for managing your cat’s health.
