How To Fatten Up A Dog With Kidney Disease
As a dog owner, it is essential to know that a good diet is critical to your dog’s overall health. When your dog is diagnosed with kidney disease, it’s critical to adjust your pet’s diet to ensure you’re still providing them with enough nutrition while making sure their kidneys are not overworked. Renal diets provide low protein, low phosphorus, low sodium, and, in some cases, high calories, which is critical in a dog’s diet when battling kidney disease. However, when your dog is losing weight and needs to bulk up, it can be challenging to find foods that are both palatable to your pet and that won’t harm their kidneys. This article discusses how to fatten up a dog with kidney disease and what you can do to support their health.
The importance of proper nutrition for dogs with kidney disease
Kidney disease is common in older dogs, and managing their diet will go a long way in helping to keep the disease under control. The right nutrition will provide your dog with the energy they need to get through the day while keeping them healthy and strong. Malnutrition in dogs with kidney disease can cause several problems such as muscle wasting, an unhealthy coat, and a weakened immune system.
How to fatten up a dog with kidney disease
It can be challenging to find the right balance when it comes to feeding a dog with kidney disease. On the one hand, you don’t want to give them too much protein, and on the other hand, you want them to gain weight. Here are a few tips to help you fatten up your dog with kidney disease:
Add more calories to their diet
When your dog is underweight, one of the best ways to fatten them up is by adding more calories to their diet. You can achieve this by adding foods to their diet that are high in energy. For example, you can add cooked eggs, peanut butter, or coconut oil to their meals. Just remember to consult with your vet before adding any new foods to your dog’s diet.
Choose high-calorie dog food
Another way to increase your dog’s caloric intake is by feeding them high-calorie dog food that is specifically formulated for dogs with kidney disease. These foods are usually nutritionally balanced, nutrient-dense, and can provide your dog with the required nutrients they need.
Feed small, frequent meals
Feeding small, frequent meals can help increase your dog’s caloric intake while reducing the risk of overworking their kidneys. Small, frequent feedings help with digestion and can also help to regulate your dog’s blood sugar levels.
Consider adding supplements to their diet
Adding supplements such as probiotics, Vitamin B-complex, and Omega-3 fatty acids can help improve your dog’s health while aiding in weight gain. Probiotics help to improve digestion, Vitamin B-complex help boost energy, and Omega-3 fatty acids can help improve coat health and reduce inflammation.
Make mealtime enjoyable
Dogs can become picky eaters when battling kidney disease. Some may lose their appetite, making it more challenging to ensure they receive the nutrients they need. To ensure your dog is always looking forward to mealtimes, try adding a little bit of water or gravy to their food, or experiment with different textures to make mealtime more enjoyable.
FAQs for Fattening Up A Dog With Kidney Disease
Q: Can I feed my dog human food to help them gain weight?
A: Yes, some human food can be suitable for dogs with kidney disease. Foods such as eggs, chicken, and lean meats are high in protein and can help your dog gain weight. However, it’s essential to consult with your vet before adding any new foods to your pet’s diet.
Q: Are there any risks associated with feeding high-calorie dog food to a dog with kidney disease?
A: There may be risks associated with feeding high-calorie dog food to dogs with kidney disease. Some high-calorie dog foods may contain higher levels of protein and phosphorus, which can put additional stress on your dog’s kidneys. Be sure to work with a vet to choose the right food for your dog to avoid complications.
Q: What can I do to make feeding time more enjoyable for my dog?
A: To make feeding times more enjoyable for your dog, try different textures, add some water or gravy to their food, and consider warming up their meals to increase palatability.
Q: Are supplements necessary for dogs with kidney disease?
A: Supplements can be beneficial for dogs with kidney disease, but it’s essential to consult with your vet to ensure you’re giving them the right supplements for their specific needs. It’s also important to note that some supplements may have side effects, so it’s necessary to monitor any changes in your pet’s behavior after adding supplements to their diet.
Conclusion
Maintaining the right nutrition for a dog with kidney disease can be a balancing act, but it’s essential to ensure they’re getting the right nutrients while keeping their kidney function in check. Fattening up a dog with kidney disease requires a combination of different approaches, including adding more calories to their diet, feeding small, frequent meals, and experimenting with different textures and flavors. With the right approach and support from your vet, you can help your dog stay healthy and strong while battling kidney disease.