Low Protein Dog Treats For Your Dog With Kidney Problems

There's a rash of dogs with kidney problems these days. If you're dealing with this, your vet may have recommended low protein dog treats and food to reduce the amount of work your dog's kidneys have to do to process the food.

Here's what to look for in a low protein dog treats and food:

Dog Food

1. Uremic Toxins

Uremic toxins are by products made as the kidneys function normally. These toxic materials are usually released through urination, but, if your dog has kidney problems, this may be more difficult. A low protein dog diet will limit the production of uremic toxins, making your dog's kidney's have to work a little less.

2. Nausea

If these uremic toxins build up in your pet, your dog will begin to feel fatigued or nauseated. She might vomit. Giving your dog low protein foods will help limit nausea.

3. Low Phosphorus Content

If your dog is suffering from any kidney problem, they can't consume a lot of phosphorus (found in protein-hence the low protein diet restriction).

If your pet does continue with her typical diet, she could develop hyperphosphatemia. This condition ends in electrolyte imbalances with the dog and if left untreated it can cause renal failure as well. Coupled with the kidney problems, this can lead to dialysis.

The kidneys do a lot of the heavy lifting of ridding your pet's body of toxins. Any chemicals in the food, pollutants, insecticides, food coloring agents, anything not needed for health gets eliminated by the kidneys.

Once your dog is diagnosed with kidney problems, you have to figure out a way to handle it. Vets will usually recommend limiting protein and place the dogs on low protein diets.

Yet it's a fine balance. According to veterinarian Dr. Pitcairn, you don't want to reduce protein altogether as that can be harmful. But do you want to feed enough good quality protein (like real meat) so your pet gets the nutrients he needs.

He also says your dog will need more vitamins A, B & C. These will nourish your pets immune system and help the kidneys.

Many pet owners have opted out of the prescription foods and started cooking for their pets.
You can even make homemade low protein dog treats. They're fun and easy.

If you're interested in learning more about low protein dog treats recipes, please visit my website where I share homemade dog treat recipes for your dog.

Low Protein Dog Treats For Your Dog With Kidney Problems

Dog Food