Managing kidney disease in cats often involves dietary changes to support their renal function and overall well-being. While therapeutic diets are common, some cat owners are exploring homemade options to gain more control over their cat’s nutrition. This guide delves into the principles of nutritional management for feline kidney disease and provides a detailed recipe for a homemade diet specifically formulated for cats with this condition. Learn more about Kidney-Chek here.
Understanding Kidney Disease in Cats
Kidney disease, particularly Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), is a progressive condition where the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste products from the blood. Symptoms can include lethargy, poor coat quality, weight loss, and decreased appetite. Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) is an inherited form characterized by cyst formation in the kidneys. Diagnosis typically involves blood tests and urinalysis to assess kidney function.
Nutritional Management Strategies
While there’s no cure for kidney disease, dietary modification is a cornerstone of management. Key focuses include:
1. Restricted High-Quality Protein
Historically, low-protein diets were recommended. However, current understanding emphasizes providing restricted amounts of highly digestible, animal-based proteins to prevent muscle loss and maintain body condition.
2. Low Phosphorus Content
Damaged kidneys struggle to excrete phosphorus, leading to elevated blood levels that accelerate kidney decline. Therapeutic diets aim for a phosphorus content of no more than 0.5% on a dry matter basis.
3. Limited Sodium Content
High sodium intake can exacerbate hypertension and kidney damage. Renal diets are typically low in sodium, often ranging from 0.5 to 1 gram per 1,000 kcal. Ensuring adequate moisture intake is also crucial to combat dehydration, as cats with kidney disease often urinate more.
Prescription vs. Homemade Diets
Prescription renal diets offer controlled nutrient levels but may contain high carbohydrates, added sugars, artificial flavors, and by-products. For owners seeking greater control, veterinarian-formulated homemade diets can be a viable alternative, provided they are nutritionally complete and balanced.
Challenges with Homemade Diets
Homemade recipes can inadvertently contain excessive phosphorus, sodium, or protein. Restricting protein too severely can cause the body to break down muscle for essential amino acids and energy. Including digestible carbohydrates like rice can help spare body proteins and meet energy needs. Raw diets, particularly those with bone, may be high in phosphorus, though some experts find CKD patients do well on raw food with ground bone, using phosphate binders as needed.
A Veterinarian-Formulated Homemade Recipe for Kidney Disease
This recipe, developed by Dr. Meredith Wall, is specifically designed for cats with kidney disease. Precision in measurement and adherence to the ingredient list are crucial.
Ingredients:
- 470 grams raw boneless, skinless chicken thigh
- 30 grams pink salmon (with bones and skin, canned in water)
- 90 grams softened salted butter
- 220 grams cooked short- or medium-grain white rice
- 100 grams raw pumpkin or butternut squash (peeled)
- 60 grams raw chopped spinach, kale, or Swiss chard (stems removed)
Supplements (per 1kg batch):
- 7 ml Nordic Naturals pet liquid omega-3 supplement
- 5 grams NOW psyllium husk powder
- Contents of 2 (1000mg) NOW taurine capsules
- Contents of 1 (25mg) crushed Source Naturals iron tablet
- Contents of 3 NOW Daily Vits Multivitamin/Mineral capsules
- 2 level teaspoons NOW calcium carbonate powder
- ½ level teaspoon NOW potassium chloride powder
- Contents of 2 (500mg) crushed Nature’s Way choline tablets
Instructions:
- Steam rice until overcooked and very soft. Measure 220g and stir in butter until melted.
- Microwave pumpkin/squash with a teaspoon of water until very soft, then mash.
- Sauté chicken until cooked through and mince finely (or use raw, human-grade chicken).
- Combine mashed pumpkin/squash, spinach/kale/chard, cooked chicken, and buttered rice.
- Thoroughly mix in psyllium husk powder and fish oil.
- Add remaining supplements and mix well.
- Allow mixture to cool completely before refrigerating or freezing.
This recipe yields approximately 1kg of food with about 70% moisture content. Fresh food should be refrigerated for 3-5 days.
Recommended Supplements for the Homemade Diet
While the initial investment in supplements may seem high, they are designed to last through multiple batches.
#1 Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Pet Liquid Supplement
Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Pet Liquid Supplement
This unflavored liquid supplement, sourced from anchovy and sardine oils, easily blends into the food and provides essential EPA and DHA.
#2 NOW Psyllium Husk Powder
NOW Psyllium Husk Powder
A rich source of soluble fiber, this finely ground powder acts as a prebiotic. For accurate dosage, weighing the 5 grams is recommended.
#3 NOW Taurine (1,000 mg) Capsules
NOW Taurine (1,000 mg) Capsules
Taurine is an essential amino acid for cats, crucial for brain and nervous system health. Emptying the capsule contents into the mixture ensures better integration.
#4 Source Naturals Iron (25 mg) Tablets
Source Naturals Iron (25 mg) Tablets
Iron is vital for oxygen transport. These tablets should be finely crushed before being added to the homemade food.
#5 Nature’s Way Choline (500 mg) Tablets
Nature’s Way Choline (500 mg) Tablets
Choline supports healthy brain function. These tablets also require crushing before mixing.
#6 NOW Calcium Carbonate Powder
NOW Calcium Carbonate Powder
This powder supports bone and teeth health. Dosage adjustments may be necessary depending on your cat’s blood calcium levels, as determined by your veterinarian.
#7 NOW Potassium Chloride Powder
NOW Potassium Chloride Powder
Potassium is important for muscle and nerve function. Veterinarians may adjust the dosage to maintain proper mineral balance.
Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for monitoring kidney disease progression and adjusting any necessary treatments or dietary supplements. Consulting with your veterinarian is crucial before implementing any homemade diet for your cat. Check out our in-depth guide to making homemade cat food here.
