+92 311 0409123
Cat food formulated for kidney diseases and renal health is beneficial because it typically has lower levels of protein and phosphorus, which can help reduce the workload on the kidneys. Additionally, it often contains increased levels of omega-3 fatty acids to reduce inflammation and antioxidants to support kidney health. These adjustments can help slow the progression of kidney disease and improve the quality of life for cats with these conditions.
Most cat parents don’t know which food is best for their feline buddies suffering from these health problems. This guide reviews the best cat foods for kidney health and renal diseases commonly available in Pakistan.
Important: Please note that some of the foods reviewed below may not be available in Pakistan due to import restrictions.
5 Best Cat Foods for Kidney Health and Renal Diseases in Pakistan
Royal Canin Renal Cat Food
The Royal Canin Renal Cat Food is specifically designed to support the health of cats with kidney issues. It comes in both dry and wet formats, catering to different preferences. This food is recognized for being low in protein and phosphorus, which is essential for cats suffering from kidney diseases. It’s also designed to be highly palatable to encourage cats with decreased appetite to eat, supporting their overall health and well-being.
However, it’s noted that while this food is beneficial for cats with kidney problems, it may not be suitable for all due to its specific nutritional profile designed for renal support. For example, it contains less protein and more carbohydrates than typical cat foods, which might not be ideal for every cat’s diet. Additionally, some cats may have sensitivities or allergies to certain ingredients in the food, such as fish oil.
Customers generally have positive feedback, appreciating its effectiveness in managing kidney health and noting improvements in their cats’ conditions. Yet, some mention the cost as a downside, pointing out that it can be expensive for long-term feeding. Despite this, many find it worth the investment for the health benefits it provides to their feline companions with kidney issues.
Royal Canin Renal Cat Jelly
The Royal Canin Renal Cat Jelly, part of the Royal Canin Veterinary Diet for feline renal support, has been formulated to aid cats with kidney issues, offering both wet and dry food options with similar ingredients to cater to different feeding preferences. This diet is specifically designed to support kidney function in cats by being low in protein and phosphorus, containing essential nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil and antioxidants. The Royal Canin Renal Support diet is recommended by veterinarians for its beneficial effects on cats with kidney diseases. It aims to maintain kidney health, delay the progression of kidney disease, and improve palatability for cats, which is especially important for those with reduced appetite due to their condition.
Feedback from users highlights the effectiveness and palatability of Royal Canin’s renal diets. Many have shared positive outcomes, noting improvements in their cats’ kidney function and overall health. However, some have observed changes in their cats’ reactions to the food over time, suggesting variability in individual tolerance and preferences among feline patients.
Josera Help Renal Cat Food
Josera Help Renal Cat Food is specifically formulated to support adult cats suffering from chronic renal insufficiency (CRI). This dietary complete feed has a gluten-free recipe that focuses on relieving the kidneys by reducing protein and phosphorus content. This food is enriched with B vitamins to counteract the loss of B vitamins through kidney issues. It includes nettle in its phytogenic complex, traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory properties and urinary tract support.
The food aims to promote nutrient supply with all essential vitamins, minerals, and trace elements. Salmon oil, another key ingredient, provides omega-3 fatty acids crucial for anti-inflammatory effects and supporting the immune system. Despite the focus on supporting kidney function and relieving the kidneys, it is recognized that the progression of kidney disease can typically only be slowed down.
Josera is designed for high acceptance among cats, which is particularly important given that many cats with kidney disease often have reduced appetites. The formulation balances the need to alleviate kidney stress while ensuring the cat receives adequate nutrition and energy, aiming to prevent weight loss and support overall well-being. With its tailored ingredients and nutritional profile, Josera Help Renal Cat Food represents a thoughtful approach to managing chronic renal insufficiency in felines, aiming to enhance their quality of life despite the challenges of kidney disease.
Happy Cat Vet Renal Dry Diet
Happy Cat Vet Renal Dry Diet is a dietetic food for cats with chronic renal insufficiency. It features a formula with reduced protein and mineral content to relieve the kidneys, while being enriched with essential minerals and easy to digest. The food is also enhanced with herbs for added nutrients and flavor, making it palatable for cats.
It is made in Germany, ensuring high-quality standards. Ingredients include rice, fats, greaves, proteins, and fibers. Happy Cat Sensitive Kidney aims to support kidney function through a balanced diet with reduced phosphorus, sodium, and high-quality protein levels. The addition of omega-3 fatty acids supports renal and cardiovascular health. The food is also noted as easy to digest and highly palatable, making it a suitable option for cats with kidney disease.
MERAVITAL Renal Cat Food
MERAVITAL Renal Cat Food is a specialized diet developed by veterinarians and nutritionists to cater to cats suffering from chronic kidney disease (CKD), a common ailment in older felines. This premium dry food is designed to relieve the kidneys by providing a low content of high-quality proteins, which are highly digestible and minimize stress on the urinary system by reducing the production of breakdown products like urea. The adjusted phosphorus content in MERAVITAL Renal prevents the accumulation of phosphorus, which cats with kidney disease often struggle to process.
The food also features a specific mineral ratio that combats body over-acidification, while omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) help alleviate tissue inflammation and enhance the kidneys’ filtering capacity. Prebiotic inulin is included to stabilize the compromised intestinal flora, and mannan oligosaccharides prevent the absorption of pathogenic germs through the intestinal mucosa. To ensure the effectiveness of this diet, it’s advised to feed MERAVITAL Renal exclusively, alongside constant access to fresh water, and under the guidance of a veterinarian.
Tips to Switch your Cat to Cat Food for Kidney Health
- Consult Your Veterinarian: Before changing your cat’s diet, consult your veterinarian to confirm that a kidney health diet is appropriate for your cat’s condition. They can recommend specific brands or types of food that would be most beneficial.
- Introduce the New Food Slowly: Start by mixing a small amount of the kidney health food with your cat’s current food. Gradually increase the proportion of the new food over a week or more to allow your cat to adjust.
- Monitor Hydration: Cats with kidney issues need to stay well-hydrated. Ensure fresh water is always available, and consider incorporating wet food or adding water to dry food to increase fluid intake.
- Ensure Palatability: Kidney diets may have a different taste or texture that your cat might initially reject. Warming the food or adding a small amount of fish oil can make it more appealing.
- Evaluate Food Ingredients: Look for foods that are lower in phosphorus and protein but ensure the protein is high quality. This can help reduce the workload on the kidneys.
- Provide Small, Frequent Meals: Cats with kidney problems may have a reduced appetite. Offering small, frequent meals can encourage eating and ensure they’re getting the nutrients they need.
- Monitor Your Cat’s Response: Keep an eye on your cat’s response to the new diet regarding appetite, weight, energy level, and overall health. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian can help assess how well the diet is supporting your cat’s kidney health.
- Be Patient and Persistent: It might take some time for your cat to fully accept the new diet. Don’t give up too quickly; try different strategies to make the food more appealing.
- Consider Supplements: Your veterinarian may recommend specific supplements to support kidney function. These should be used with a proper diet and not as a substitute.
- Watch for Signs of Improvement or Decline: Improvement in kidney function may be slow and subtle, so it’s important to closely monitor your cat for any signs of improvement or decline in their condition.
Symptoms of Kidney Diseases in Cats
Symptoms of kidney diseases in cats include lethargy, unkempt appearance, weight loss, increased urination and drinking, appetite loss, and possibly elevated blood pressure affecting eyes, brain, and heart function. Cats may also experience acidosis due to the inability of kidneys to excrete acids properly, leading to organ system function issues. Additionally, kidney disease can decrease a cat’s ability to produce red blood cells, leading to anemia and causing gums to appear pale, contributing to lethargy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between regular cat food and cat food for kidney health?
Regular cat food is designed for the general nutritional needs of cats, with standard levels of protein, phosphorus, and sodium. Cat food for kidney health is specifically formulated to have lower levels of protein and phosphorus, and often reduced sodium, to ease the workload on the kidneys, supporting cats with kidney issues.
Can a healthy cat eat cat food for kidney problems?
While a healthy cat can eat cat food formulated for kidney issues without immediate harm, it’s not ideal due to its altered nutrient profile. This food is lower in protein and other nutrients to accommodate the dietary needs of cats with kidney disease, which may not meet the nutritional requirements of healthy cats.
Is kidney health cat food the same as urinary cat food?
No, kidney health cat food and urinary cat food serve different purposes. Kidney health cat food aims to manage chronic kidney disease by reducing protein and phosphorus intake. Urinary cat food is formulated to prevent urinary tract issues, such as crystals and stones, by managing mineral levels and urine pH.
Can cats with kidney disease eat chicken?
Cats with kidney disease can eat chicken, but it should be given in moderation due to its protein content. It’s important to ensure that the overall diet remains low in phosphorus and that chicken is part of a balanced diet prescribed or approved by a veterinarian.
Are eggs okay for cats with kidney diseases?
Eggs can be a part of the diet for cats with kidney disease as they provide high-quality protein in a form that’s easier for the kidneys to process. However, they should be given in controlled amounts as part of a diet formulated to the specific needs of a cat with kidney disease.
Which is the best homemade diet for cats with kidney diseases?
The best homemade diet for cats with kidney disease would include controlled amounts of high-quality protein, low phosphorus, and non-protein calories from sources like cooked eggs and rice. It’s crucial to consult with a veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist to ensure the homemade diet meets the cat’s specific nutritional needs.