Kidneys need to be handled with care!

The kidneys have a number of important tasks in the body. For one, these bean-shaped, red-brownish organs are crucial for the disposal of toxins; they filter them from the blood into the urine to exit the body. They are also key in the regulation of the blood pressure.

That’s why kidneys are so important for a good health and need to be handled with care. Kidney problems are often, unfortunately, discovered after a big part of their functions have already gone down. That’s why it is so important to recognize any symptoms referring to renal failure as soon as possible. The right treatment can slow down the deterioration of the kidneys and improve the quality of life.

Did you know?

Cats and dogs, like humans, have a left and a right kidney. The right one is a bit closer tot he front than the left one. 

Chronic renal failure

In chronic renal failure, the kidneys are not functioning optimally, which hampers the toxins to be eliminated from the body. This results in increased levels of certain substances in the blood, such as creatinine. There are various causes for renal failure. There might be a condition affecting the kidneys themselves, such as inflammation, kidney stones, a hereditary disorder or a tumor. However, other diseases like chronic inflammation elsewhere in the body, hormonal diseases, high blood pressure or an obstructed urethra may also cause kidney problems. 

Quite a lot!

Chronic renal failure is a condition that is common especially among older cats and dogs. Thirty percent of all cats over 12 years of age suffer from chronic renal failure. 

These are important signs

Pets suffering from chronic renal failure often show very common signs that might also occur with other health issues. This is what you need to look for:

• Little to no appetite
• Weight loss
• More drinking and urinating more frequently than before
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Dehydration
• Reduced activity level

Important

For a correct diagnosis and drawing up a treatment plan, always consult a veterinarian! Dietetic feeds should only be given to pets that have been confirmed to suffer from chronic renal failure by a veterinarian. Specific, kidney-supporting dietetic food is vital when your pet has renal failure, and they should be kept on that diet for the rest of their life.

Senior feeds

Prins has developed specific senior feeds for cats and dogs, containing salmon oil and an adjusted mineral content to support a healthy renal function: Prins ProCare Protection Senior Fit, Prins ProCare Grain-free Senior and Prins VitalCare Senior 12+ dry feeds.

Dietetic feeds

For cats, suffering from chronic renal failure, we have developed two specific, tasty and complete dietetic feeds: Prins VitalCare Diet Renal Support (dry food) and Prins NatureCare Diet Renal Support (canned meat-based meals). These renal diets contain high-quality, easily digestible proteins, a lowered protein and mineral content (such as phosphorus) to lessen the strain on the kidneys, a lowered sodium content to prevent high blood pressure and a higher content in supporting nutrients such as potassium and omega-3 fatty acids.  

Not yet…

For dogs, suffering from chronic renal failure, we have unfortunately not (yet) developed a specific dietetic food, but the food experts in our CareTeam are always stand-by to give you the right recommendations if need be.

Extra support

We have some additional recommendations that might help support your pet when it has kidney problems:

• Do not food your dog any additional snacks while on a renal food diet. Additional food tends to be rich in proteins and minerals, which might diminish the renal diet’s results. 
• If you’d like to add wet food, make sure you opt for one that is suitable for pets with chronic renal failure. Conventional wet feeds often contain higher levels of proteins and phosphorus.
• As pets that suffer from kidney problems urinate more frequently, it is important for them to drink sufficiently.
• Pets with chronic renal failure may have a reduced appetite. If need be, you can add some lukewarm water to their diet food, so the aromas are released easier.

Need help?

We want to help you in keeping your pet healthy. Need any help? We are here for you.