Requirements

• Cats with compromised kidneys require a low-protein diet, so most of the foods specifically designed for cats in kidney failure focus on this requirement. In addition, these pets should be given food with reduced phosphorus, as the kidneys do not properly eliminate phosphorus when they are not fully functional. Certain supplements such as vitamin B can provide additional support and are often included in a therapeutic diet.
  
  

Hill's K/D Prescription Diet

• Many veterinarians recommend that their patients with kidney problems be fed a prescription diet. Hill's k/d prescription food is often available right in your vet's office. It has reduced protein, phosphorus and sodium chloride and added vitamin B-complex and antioxidants. However, it includes meat byproducts and corn, which are not good ingredients for your pet. It is available in dry and canned versions.
  
  

Iams Multi-Stage Renal

• Iams Multi-Stage Renal food also has reduced phosphorus and, in its words, "optimum protein levels" in both dry and canned formulas. It provides omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, plus potassium citrate to keep the blood from getting too acidic. It uses fiber to divert wastes into the colon rather than allowing them to enter the bloodstream where they must be filtered by the kidneys. It does contain ethoxyquin, which is a chemical preservative that is considered toxic with chronic use, as well as byproducts and a high content of corn.
  
  

Purina NF Feline Formula

• Purina NF has reduced levels of protein, phosphorus and sodium and added essential fatty acids and potassium. The dry formula includes a high content of corn, and both dry and canned versions contain "animal digest," which typically comes from the so-called "4D animals": dead, diseased, dying and disabled.
  
  

Other Commercial Foods

• While other commercial foods may not be promoted as being designed for cats with kidney problems, some high-quality foods may be appropriate. Look for foods with high-quality protein and high digestibility (high value for kcal/cup), so your cat will not need to eat so much of the food that the low-protein content is negated by excess consumption. Seek foods that state they do not include chemical preservatives or other artificial ingredients. If possible, use a food with human-grade or even organic meat and without corn and soy. And of course keep in mind the special requirements of low protein, phosphorus and sodium.
  
  

Homemade Diets

• You may also consider preparing your own meals for your cat. Several veterinarians have designed foods you can prepare at home that meet the needs of cats with kidney problems. These diets typically include a high-quality meat source, egg, rice and supplements such as B vitamins and essential fatty acids. See the Resources section for recipes recommended by Dr. Donald Strombeck and Dr. Susan Pitcairn.
  
  

Disclaimer

• The information in this article should not be considered medical advice. The information in this article is not meant to treat, diagnose, prescribe or cure any ailment. Always consult your animal health practitioner before you start, stop or change anything that has been previously prescribed.