Kidney Conditions. Clinical Nutrition to Improve Quality of Life

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1 Kidney Conditions Clinical Nutrition to Improve Quality of Life

2 The importance of nutrition The food your pet eats plays an important part in his or her overall health and well-being. So a nutritious balanced diet is an essential part of an active, healthy lifestyle. If your pet has problems with his or her kidneys, it s even more important to feed the right food. This booklet explains how nutrition can help. Topics covered: Meaning and signs of kidney conditions What is kidney disease? Kidneys are very important because they remove waste substances from the blood and maintain the normal balance of fluid and minerals within the body. Any disorder which damages the kidneys is referred to as kidney disease. In some cases, pets may show early warning signs of disease. However, signs of serious illness only appear when three-quarters of the kidneys function has already been lost. Causes of kidney conditions Foods that can help

3 Has my pet got a kidney condition? The signs of kidney disease can be difficult to recognise, but if you notice any of the following, it could mean your pet has a kidney problem. What causes kidney problems? The kidneys can be damaged by a whole range of conditions including injury, cancer and infection. This damage is usually irreversible. Lack of energy and increased sleeping Increased thirst and urine production Decreased appetite Kidney disease is common in cats and dogs but with early diagnosis and treatment, progression can be limited and many pets go on to live happily for years after diagnosis. Factors that can make pets more prone to kidney disease include the following: Age The chance of developing kidney problems doubles between the ages of 10 and 15. Weakness Common signs of kidney disease Weight loss Diet Careful control of the intake of phosphorus and protein in the food can slow the progression of kidney disease. Breed Some breeds are more likely to develop particular types of kidney disease. Sore mouth Vomiting & diarrhoea Bad breath Environment Some chemicals, including certain disinfectants, anti-freeze, lead paint and also some drugs can damage the kidneys. IMPORTANT An increase in thirst is the first sign of kidney failure if you notice this, or any of the above signs, contact your vet immediately.

4 Hill s Prescription Diet pet foods Hill s Prescription Diet pet foods are specially formulated to help manage pets with health problems. Backed by extensive clinical evidence, it s the most reliable and trusted range of its kind. Your vet will recommend a Prescription Diet food that helps manage pets with kidney conditions. Great tasting and good value for money, changing to Hill s is easy, and you may find it costs less to feed than your pet s previous food. Although your pet may need drug treatment to stabilise the condition, a permanent change to a specially formulated food is an important long-term measure for slowing the progress of the disease. Prescription Diet k/d Clinically proven to extend life in pets with kidney failure Formulated with appropriate mineral content and nutrients to provide effective management of kidney failure, feeding k/d will help your pet feel better quickly. The only product clinically proven to slow the development of kidney disease, k/d is a complete food available in both dry and canned varieties. Prescription Diet Feline g/d Helps cats with early kidney disease Moderately restricted in protein, phosphorus and salt, g/d helps manage cats in the early stages of kidney disease and helps them to feel better. We re sure your pet will enjoy Hill s Prescription Diet foods. In fact we re so confident that we offer a 100% money back guarantee. Prescription Diet Canine u/d Manages dogs with advanced kidney failure Ultra-low in protein and phosphorus for dogs in the advanced stage of kidney disease. Available in both dry and canned varieties to suit your dog s preference.

5 Your checklist 3 If you suspect that your pet may have kidney disease, consult your vet straight away 3 Only feed the food recommended by your vet 3 In unwell pets with a poor appetite, a gradual transition to the new food may be advisable 3 Ask your vet for advice on mixing dry and canned food 3 Avoid scraps or titbits as these may be rich in phosphorus and/or salt 3 Make sure your pet doesn t scavenge for food 3 Always provide plenty of clean, fresh water 3 If you have any concerns about your pet s health, contact your vet FEEDING ADVICE Diet: Daily amount: No. of meals per day: How long: Hill s Pet Nutrition Ltd., Wingfield Court, Croxley Business Park, Hatters Lane, Watford WD18 8YL Hill s Helpline: / (ROI) Trademarks owned by Hill s Pet Nutrition, Inc Hill s Pet Nutrition, Inc. sap code