Homemade Diets for Dogs with Kidney Disease

Feeding a Homemade Diet for Dogs with Kidney Failure

Has your dog been diagnosed with kidney disease? An estimated 1 in 10 dogs will develop kidney problems over their lifetime. While it can be scary, adjusting your dog’s diet is one of the most important things you can do to support their kidney health and give them the best quality of life.

Understanding Kidney Disease in Dogs

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is an ongoing, progressive disorder that causes the kidneys to gradually lose function over time. Waste builds up in the body that would normally be filtered out. This makes dogs feel unwell and can be life-threatening if left unchecked.

There are lots of causes but most cases of CKD are from aging and wear and tear on the kidneys. Early diagnosis and adjusting care can slow further kidney damage.

Why Diet Matters for Kidney Health

Along with medication and treatments prescribed by your vet, an appropriate diet is crucial for dogs with chronic kidney disease for several reasons:

• Reduces workload for damaged kidneys
• Ensures adequate nutrition despite appetite changes
• Boosts energy levels and wellbeing
• Controls related issues like anemia, blood pressure, etc.
• Slows down loss of kidney function

Vet-Approved Homemade Kidney Supportive Diets

With your vet's guidance, feeding a homemade diet optimized for kidney health may be an excellent option. Benefits include:

• Increased palatability from whole fresh foods to encourage eating
• More moisture compared to dry food to support hydration
• Better control over nutrient levels adjusted to your dog’s needs
• Avoiding fillers, preservatives, or ingredients hard on kidneys

Working with Your Vet

Because kidney disease causes many vitamin/mineral imbalances, it’s extremely important to work with your vet to develop the right homemade recipe. Meet with a veterinary nutritionist if possible.

Your vet will tailor optimal nutritional levels of protein, fat, carbs, phosphorus, sodium and more based on lab testing and kidney values. These levels may need adjustment over time as disease progresses.

Recipe Guidelines for Kidney Disease

Use your vet's recommended recipe as a base, not generic recipes found online. With a few nutritionally balanced ingredients, you can prepare homemade food that’s gentler for kidneys. Guidelines include:

High Quality Protein Sources

Choosing digestible, kidney-friendly proteins is crucial. Options may include:

• Eggs: Scrambled or hard boiled, a great source of high quality protein
• Cottage Cheese: Soft, bland cheese easier to digest and lower in phosphorus
• Chicken/Turkey: Skinless white meat, baked or boiled into small pieces
• Fish: Salmon, whitefish, sardines packed with omega-3s
• Tofu: Plant-based alternative protein source

Complex Carbohydrates

Choose gentle whole food carbs like these:

• White Rice: Quickly digested, great carb option best in moderation
• Quinoa/Oats: Contains more fiber than white rice
• Sweet Potatoes: Provide vitamins like beta carotene
• Pasta: Opt for whole wheat when phosphorus levels allow

Kidney-Friendly Fruits and Vegetables

Incorporate produce like these:

• Blueberries: Packed with antioxidants to slow kidney decline
• Squash: Provides nutritious fiber and carotenoids
• Brussels Sprouts: High in vitamin K beneficial for kidneys
• Broccoli/Cauliflower: Nutrient-rich cruciferous veggies

Healthy Fats

Add in fatty acids from sources such as:

• Flaxseed Oil: Anti-inflammatory omega-3s
• Olive Oil: Monounsaturated fats protect cell membranes
• Fish Oil: Supports kidney and heart health

Avoid Problem Ingredients

Steer clear of hard to digest proteins, high sodium/phosphorus additives or dehydrated foods like:

• Red meat
• Organ meats
• Bones
• Preservatives
• Onions/Garlic

Homemade Recipe Ideas

Here are some homemade diet recipes to discuss with your vet:

Scrambled Egg and Sweet Potato Bowls

These bowls provide gentle protein, digestion-friendly carbs with fiber and beta carotene from veggies and fruit like:

• 2 Eggs + 2 Egg whites, scrambled
• 1⁄2 Cup cooked sweet potato cubes
• 1⁄4 Cup blueberries
• 2 Tbsp cottage cheese
• 1 tsp olive oil

Shredded Chicken and Quinoa

This nutritious recipe combines lean protein, a complex carb and squash:

• 1⁄2 Cup cooked quinoa
• 1⁄4-1⁄2 Cup cooked, shredded chicken breast
• 1⁄4 Cup butternut squash, cooked and mashed
• 1 Tbsp flaxseed oil

Fish and Veggies Casserole

Blend omega-3 rich fish with kidney-friendly vegetables like:

• 1 can water-packed tuna, drained
• 1⁄2 Cup broccoli, steamed and chopped
• 1⁄4 Cup cooked brown rice
• 1 Tbsp cottage cheese
• 1 tsp olive oil

Tips for Transitioning to Homemade Kidney Diet

Switching your dog to a homemade recipe takes some adjustment. Go slowly over 1-2 weeks, starting with 25% homemade food mixed with old food. Track for vomiting, diarrhea or reduced appetite issues. Over time increase homemade portions to 100%.

Finding the right balance tailored to your dog’s changing kidney issues takes trial and error. Work closely with your vet, report any diet concerns and routinely monitor bloodwork.

With dedication to an appropriate homemade diet under veterinary supervision, you can nourish your dog’s kidney health and give them the best life possible!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.